Waverly-Shell Rock Community Schools

✨⭐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! 🦅✨ 🦅✨

✨⭐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

✨⭐This week’s KWAY Teacher of the Week is Lisa Phyfe, Speech and English Teacher at Waverly-Shell Rock High School!⭐✨

Lisa Phyfe is being celebrated for the profound impact she has on her students' confidence and for helping them find their voice.

We received a powerful nomination from a student who credited Mrs. Phyfe with literally changing their life. The student shared how Mrs. Phyfe helped them overcome a deep fear of public speaking by encouraging them to step out of their comfort zone in a supportive way.

The student wrote: “Mrs. Phyfe changed my life... She has inspired me in so many ways and I cannot thank her enough.”

By challenging her students to try new things and supporting them every step of the way, Lisa ensures that every student has the opportunity to grow into a confident young adult.

Please join us in celebrating Lisa Phyfe, 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.
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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 Lisa Phyfe and ALL of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place were EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨

✨⭐This week’s KWAY Teacher of the Week is Lisa Johnston, 1st grade teacher at Shell Rock Elementary!⭐✨

Lisa Johnston is being celebrated for her contagious positivity and her ability to make every single student feel capable of success.

Lisa received numerous nominations from both parents and a student, proving just how much of an impact she has on the classroom environment. One parent wrote that Lisa is "compassionate and motivating," and that her positivity makes school a place students want to go every day.

Another nomination described her teaching style perfectly, writing: “She pushes students to do their best, but doesn't push too hard. She also makes sure students are growing.”

By meeting every child where they are, Lisa ensures that her students are constantly Growing in confidence and Achieving their goals.

Please join us in celebrating Lisa Johnston, 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.

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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

💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Lisa Johnston and all of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place were EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨

✨⭐This week’s KWAY Teacher of the Week is Noel McMillin, Math Teacher at Waverly-Shell Rock Middle School!⭐✨

Noel McMillin is being celebrated for his huge heart and for being a stabilizing force for students when they need it most.

We received a deeply touching nomination from a parent who moved to Waverly after the passing of her husband. She shared that her daughter landed in Mr. McMillin’s math class during that difficult transition and instantly felt cared for.

The parent wrote: “Because of Mr. McMillin, my daughter adjusted incredibly well to her new school district. Just having him there and knowing he cared made the biggest impact on her. I am so thankful he welcomed her the way he did!”

Another student nomination echoed this, saying simply: “He always checked up on me and made me feel better.”

By treating his students with such genuine care, Noel ensures that every child knows they truly BELONG at Waverly-Shell Rock.

Please join us in celebrating Noel McMillin, and in thanking him for his contribution in making Waverly-Shell Rock a place where everyone belongs, grows, and succeeds!

Listen to the KWAY radio announcement at this link.

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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

💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Mr. McMillin and all of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place were EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨

✨⭐This week’s KWAY Teacher of the Week is Christine Troyer, 1st Grade Teacher at North Ridge Elementary!⭐✨

Christine Troyer is being celebrated for her incredible ability to build confidence in young readers and for creating a classroom that is the perfect balance of "strict and warm."

Christine received a touching nomination from a parent, who shared how impactful Mrs. Troyer’s daily "baggie books" and weekly "happy notes" have been for their child. The parent described how Christine sends home a handwritten note every single week, highlighting something good the student did.

The parent wrote: “We hang them in our kitchen to give our child a boost of confidence... She is an excellent teacher to have, especially if you have a child who is struggling with reading.”

By sending home those daily books and personal notes, Christine ensures her students not only Grow in their skills but feel a deep sense of Belonging and pride every time they look at one of her notes.

Please join us in celebrating Christine Troyer, an invaluable member of the Waverly-Shell Rock team!

Listen to the KWAY radio announcement at this link.

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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

💛🖤💛🖤 Thanks to Mrs. Troyer and all of our teachers for making Waverly-Shell Rock Schools a place were EVERYONE belongs, grows, and succeeds! 🦅✨ 🦅✨

📅 Save the Date - WSR High School Job Fair & Skilled Trades Career Expo

Mark your calendar for the Waverly–Shell Rock High School Job Fair & Skilled Trades Career Expo on Monday, March 30, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 PM at the Bock Gymnasium. This event connects local businesses and skilled trade professionals with students exploring career pathways.

To register, please fill out the registration form and send it to waverly@waverlychamber.com—we encourage interested businesses and participants to register early.

✨⭐This week’s KWAY Teacher of the Week is Marty Wurth, Kindergarten Teacher at North Ridge Elementary!⭐✨

Marty Wurth is being celebrated for his patience, and for the lasting impact he leaves on his students long after they leave his classroom.

Marty received nominations from both colleagues and parents, who praised his ability to create a calm and supportive environment. One parent shared that the connection Marty builds is so strong that their child—now a 3rd grader—still talks about him and the love of learning he instilled.

The parent wrote: “The relationship he develops with all of his students... is second to none! You are making such an impact!”

By building these deep connections early on, Marty ensures his Kindergarteners feel a true sense of Belonging, setting the foundation for a lifetime of Growth and success.

Listen to the announcement on KWAY radio here.

Please join us in celebrating Marty Wurth, an invaluable member of the Waverly-Shell Rock team!

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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

💛🖤 It’s a great day to be a Go-Hawk! Thank you for showing true Go-Hawk spirit 🦅✨

✨⭐This week’s KWAY Teacher of the Week is Jason Groth, social studies teacher at Waverly-Shell Rock Middle School! ⭐✨

Jason Groth is being celebrated for his refreshing positivity and his willingness to do whatever it takes to connect with his community—even if it means wearing historical costumes in class to better illustrate a historical concept or person, or suiting up as Santa Claus for the school district’s "Christmas on Main" window display!

Jason received a flood of nominations from both students and colleagues who wanted to share how he makes learning engaging and "real."

• Students mentioned how much they love watching "CNN 10" to see what is happening around the world.

• Another student shared that even on hard days, Mr. Groth is a "reliable source to talk to" who "genuinely cares about our growth."

• One colleague called his goal-setting work "exemplary," noting that he gives students "clear paths on how to succeed."
  

Whether he is teaching history or spreading holiday cheer, Jason lives out the district's core values by creating Opportunities for every student to shine.

Listen to the announcement on KWAY radio here.

Please join us in celebrating Jason Groth, an invaluable member of the Waverly-Shell Rock team!

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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

💛🖤 It’s a great day to be a Go-Hawk! Thank you for showing true Go-Hawk spirit 🦅✨

✨⭐This week’s KWAY Teacher of the Week is Christine McCubbin, Preschool Teacher at the Little Go-Hawk Learning Center!⭐✨

Christine is being recognized for her compassionate dedication to making her preschool classroom a safe and inclusive learning space for our youngest learners.

Christine was nominated by a parent, who shared a touching story about how Mrs. McCubbin went above and beyond to welcome their son with special needs. The parent noted that Christine worked tirelessly to put their mind at ease and ensure their son’s unique needs were met.

The parent wrote: “Her welcoming and calming voice puts students at ease and makes them want to come to school each day.”

By ensuring every child feels safe and included from the very first minute, Christine truly embodies the district’s core value of Belonging for our littlest Go-Hawks.

Listen to the announcement on KWAY Radio here.

Please join us in celebrating Christine McCubbin, an invaluable member of the Waverly-Shell Rock team!

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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

💛🖤 It’s a great day to be a Go-Hawk! Thank you for showing true Go-Hawk spirit 🦅✨

🎄✨ Happy Holidays from Waverly-Shell Rock! ✨🎄

Classes resume January 5, 2026

As we wrap up a 𝘧𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘤 December, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to our students, staff, families, and community for making this a truly special season.

Your support and kindness have created an incredible atmosphere of learning and growth throughout the month of December. From classrooms filled with curiosity to auditoriums and halls alive with the sounds of holiday music, to the many community service projects led by our amazing student groups, it’s been a joy to see our Go-Hawk spirit in action.

🎄 Now, as we head into Winter Break, we wish you all a season filled with peace, joy, and meaningful moments with loved ones. May this be a time to recharge, reflect, and celebrate all that we’ve accomplished together.

Classes will resume on January 5, 2026. 𝘞𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬, 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘨𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘩𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘢𝘴𝘮!

Thank you for being such an important part of the W-SR family. We look forward to all that 2026 has in store for our school district and community!

🖤💛 It’s a GREAT season to be a Go-Hawk! 🖤💛

#GoHawks #WSRFamily #HappyHolidays #WinterBreak

✨⭐ This week’s KWAY Teacher of the Week is Mackenzie Trinkle, a business teacher at Waverly-Shell Rock High School! ⭐✨

Mackenzie Trinkle is being celebrated for her infectious energy and for creating a classroom culture defined by Honor, Dignity, and Respect.

Mackenzie received numerous nominations from students, who described her as the "most hardworking and positive teacher" who steps up to lead programs like DECA. One nomination specifically highlighted how she uses the "HDR" model—Honor, Dignity, and Respect—to ensure her classroom is a welcoming place for everyone, where no one feels out of place.

By making sure every student is heard and valued, Mackenzie truly lives out Waverly-Shell Rock's core value of Belonging, making her classroom a safe space where students are excited to learn.

Listen to the announcement on KWAY Radio here.

Please join us in celebrating Mackenzie Trinkle, an invaluable member of the Waverly-Shell Rock team!

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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

💛🖤 It’s a great day to be a Go-Hawk! Thank you for showing true Go-Hawk spirit 🦅✨