Staying Connected
with Winnebago Middle School | November 2022
From the Principal
As we move into the holiday season, we wanted to say "thank you" for all that you do in partnering with us for the sake of our students. Your help, support, and feedback is so important as we continue to improve our practices around high levels of learning, purposeful supports, positive environments, and healthy students - it doesn't go unnoticed and is greatly appreciated.
In this issue of Staying Connected, we'd like to show off a few Art projects, (re)introduce members of our ELA and Science departments, share a few upcoming events at WMS, and let you see how we showed off our fashion on "jersey" and "comfy clothes" days this week. If you look closely, you might even catch a glimpse of staff members getting in on the dress-up day fun!
Please enjoy this week with your family and loved ones. Thanks again for everything.
Dan Phelps, Principal
815-335-3817
Mrs. Larsen, 6th & 7th Grade ELA Teacher
Years in Education: 16
Favorite thing about WMS?
"My favorite thing about WMS is all the positive energy and sense of community. I love being part of teaching our students how to be productive members of our society."
What would you like our families to know about you?
"I started horseback riding lessons a year ago and have learned a lot about myself and the benefits of trying something totally out of my comfort zone - I think that helped give me the courage to join the WMS team this year!"
Mrs. Smith, 6th Grade ELA Teacher
Years in Education: 1,001
Favorite thing about WMS?
"While we have a wonderful staff, our students are my favorite things about WMS. They're truly amazing people."
What would you like our families to know about you?
"I love to travel! Being on the lake, reading or fishing, is my happy place."
Miss. Szymanski, 7th Grade ELA Teacher
Years in Education: 8
Favorite thing about WMS?
"The students! They're why I'm here. I also love the overall camaraderie of the staff. I know that I work with an amazing group of individuals who love what they do."
What would you like our families to know about you?
"My last name will be changing over the summer! Next year I will be Mrs. Fornero. I played soccer for 15 years growing up, and currently coach the WHS soccer team. One of my favorite parts of teaching is when I can work with students to help them find a book they enjoy reading!"
Miss. Wagner, 8th Grade ELA & 6th Grade Social Studies Teacher
Years in Education: 4
Favorite thing about WMS?
"WMS feels like a family. It brings me joy to see my students learn and grow. I also love to work with other staff members to make this school the best it can be for our students."
What would you like our families to know about you?
"I have wanted to be a teacher ever since I was in Kindergarten!"
Mrs. Mecum, 8th Grade ELA Teacher
Years in Education: 30
Favorite thing about WMS?
"Our community! I cannot imagine a better place to live and learn."
What would you like our families to know about you?
"I am the mom of two 'Bago graduates, and four 8th grade students! They keep me busy with bmx, track, basketball, and soccer. My favorite things to do are read and go Up North for vacation with my family!"
Mrs. Hacker, 6th & 7th Grade Science Teacher
Years in Education: 7
Favorite thing about WMS?
"I love that I get to know the students as 6th graders, teach them as 7th graders, and see them around the school as 8th graders! It is fun to watch them grow and mature throughout the years and make connections along the way."
What would you like our families to know about you?
"I love being outside and all things animals! I have a snake in my classroom and my husband and I just adopted a dog. I work nights at the Atwood Environmental Center sharing my love of outdoor education. I just became an aunt for the first time and am looking forward to spending time with my niece over the holidays!"
Mrs. Smock, 6th Grade Science & 7th Grade PLTW Medical Detective Teacher
Years in Education: 7
Favorite thing about WMS?
"One of my favorite things about WMS is that everyday is an adventure! I love the "A-ha!" moments from students in the classroom and working with amazing colleagues that share the same goals that lead to student success."
What would you like our families to know about you?
"Trying new things and traveling are two of my favorite pastimes. Both of my children have attended school in this district. I love watching and supporting them in everything they do."
Mrs. Meador, 8th Grade Science Teacher
Years in Education: 22
Favorite thing about WMS?
"My favorite thing about WMS is that the staff are all willing to jump in to help kids be successful. It's a great community of people."
What would you like our families to know about you?
"I have three kids, all at different buildings in the district. I love coffee and chocolate, and am excited for Christmas! It's my favorite holiday."
Save the Date! - Cookies & Cocoa | Snazzy Dress Up Days
2 Days of Dress Up! - Jersey Day & Comfy Clothes Day
Winnebago Middle School
Email: KaufmanA@winnebagoschools.org
Website: https://www.winnebagoschools.org/Page/1017
Location: Winnebago Middle School, North Elida Street, Winnebago, IL, USA
Phone: (815) 335-2364