26-27 Welcome Letter

Dear Winfield-Mt. Union Families and Community,

It is with great excitement and gratitude that I welcome you to the 2026-2027 school year at Winfield-Mt. Union Community School District! I hope your summer provided opportunities to relax, recharge, and create lasting memories with family and friends. As August approaches, there is a renewed sense of energy and anticipation throughout our buildings, and we are eager to welcome our students back for another year of learning, growth, and achievement.

Although our classrooms have been quieter during the summer months, there has been no shortage of activity across the district. Our maintenance and custodial teams have worked tirelessly to prepare our facilities, ensuring they are safe, clean, and welcoming for students and staff. Their commitment and pride in our schools are evident in every corner of our buildings, and we are incredibly grateful for all they have accomplished.

This summer also brought several exciting facility improvements that will benefit our students and community for years to come. We successfully completed the resurfacing of our track, providing a renewed space for our athletes, physical education classes, and community members to enjoy. In addition, the small gymnasium received a fresh coat of paint, and the hallways on the main level and third floor were painted. These improvements reflect our ongoing commitment to maintaining facilities that our students and community can be proud of.

Our investment this summer extended well beyond our buildings—it also focused on the people who make our district exceptional. Professional learning remains a priority because we know that when educators continue to grow, our students benefit. This summer, members of our staff attended the Professional Learning Communities (PLC) Institute, where they collaborated with educators from across the country to strengthen our work in collaborative teams and student learning. Other staff members participated in the Yes We Can Special Education Conference, gaining valuable strategies to better support all learners and ensure every student has access to meaningful educational opportunities.

Additionally, teachers attended the Science of Reading Conference to deepen their understanding of evidence-based literacy instruction, reinforcing our district's commitment to improving reading outcomes for every student. Staff members also completed LifeSpace Crisis Intervention Training, equipping them with practical tools to support students during challenging situations while building stronger relationships and promoting positive behaviors. These professional development opportunities directly align with our district initiatives and demonstrate our commitment to continuous improvement in every classroom.

As we begin this school year, we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Our focus remains on creating an environment where every student is known, valued, challenged, and supported. We will continue strengthening instruction through collaboration, implementing research-based practices, fostering meaningful relationships, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Whether students are entering preschool, beginning kindergarten, preparing for graduation, or somewhere in between, we are committed to providing an exceptional educational experience that prepares them for success beyond our classrooms.

This year also presents an opportunity to continue building upon the strong traditions that have defined Winfield-Mt. Union for generations. Our school district has always been more than just a place for learning—it is the heart of our community. The partnerships between our families, staff, students, and community members make WMU a truly special place. Together, we create an environment where students feel supported, celebrated, and inspired to achieve their goals.

To our students, I encourage you to embrace every opportunity this year. Challenge yourselves academically, become involved in activities that interest you, strive to do your best each day, and never be afraid to ask questions or try something new. Every day presents a chance to learn, grow, and make a positive impact on those around you.

To our families, thank you for your continued trust and partnership. Your involvement in your child's education makes a tremendous difference, and we appreciate the support you provide both at home and within our schools. We look forward to working together throughout the year to ensure every student has the resources and encouragement they need to succeed.

To our dedicated staff, thank you for the countless hours you invest in preparing for the school year. Your passion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to our students are the foundation of everything we accomplish. The care you show each day makes a lasting impact on the lives of our students and their families.

The beginning of a new school year is always filled with excitement, optimism, and the promise of new opportunities. As we open our doors for the 2026-2027 school year, I look forward to celebrating our students' accomplishments, supporting their growth, and working alongside our outstanding staff and families to make this a successful year for every learner.

Thank you for your continued partnership and the trust you place in Winfield-Mt. Union Community School District. Together, we will continue to build a school community where students are inspired to learn, challenged to achieve, and encouraged to become their very best. I am confident that by working together—with a shared commitment to our students—we will make the 2026-2027 school year one filled with meaningful learning, lasting relationships, and achievements that make our entire community proud.

Welcome back, Wolves! I can't wait to see all that we accomplish together this year. Here's to an incredible school year filled with learning, growth, and success.

Sincerely,

Karinda Wahls

Karinda WahlsSuperintendentWinfield-Mt. Union Community School District