Next Level News

We are a diverse community of families, students, and staff who take pride in our schools, contribute positively to society, and prepare students for lifelong success.

Students, former students, parents, staff, and community members are all encouraged to nominate a teacher OR staff member for the Teacher and Employee of the Year program.

There is no limit to the number of employees a person may nominate.

👉To learn more and to nominate a teacher or staff member, visit http://educateMC.net/toy_eoy

🗓️ Deadline: Friday, November 21, 2025.

Help us celebrate the incredible people who make a difference every day in MCAS! #OneCityOnePack

Our fourth classroom is now open, and we’re currently enrolling 3- and 4-year-olds for pre-K!

Call (219) 873-2035 to schedule a tour or make an appointment to enroll. Little Wolves provides a caring, hands-on environment where children learn, play, and grow together as part of the Michigan City Area Schools family.

CCDF and On My Way Pre-K vouchers are accepted. Learn more at littlewolveslearning.com.

On Tuesday, October 28, Marsh Elementary School presented its progress and goals to the Michigan City Area Schools Board of Trustees. Principal Kerchell Rolling and staff members shared updates on student achievement, school improvement goals, and the many ways Marsh fosters a positive culture and climate.

Highlights included Marsh’s literacy initiatives using Amira Reading, student recognition programs such as Terrific Tiger Awards and PBIS celebrations, and the school’s commitment to the district theme, Next Level. Staff also spotlighted strong academic growth, creative family engagement events, and student performances that reflect Marsh’s mission of “One School. One Roar.”

Adding to the evening’s excitement, the Marsh Drama Club performed a short scene, and the school choir shared a musical performance that showcased the students’ creativity and teamwork.

The presentation reflected Marsh Elementary’s dedication to academic excellence, student engagement, and school pride.

View the full meeting on the EducateMC YouTube Channel.

Did you graduate from Michigan City Area Schools or one of our former high schools such as Elston or Rogers? Do you now have a child, grandchild, or student of your own in MCAS? We want to hear from you!

As part of our mission to celebrate the diverse community of families, students, and staff who take pride in our schools, we are collecting stories that highlight the lasting connections within our district.

Take a moment to fill out our MCAS Legacy Form and share your connection by clicking the banner above or link below. Selected stories may be featured in upcoming district communications.

Michigan City High School hosted the South Shore College Fair on October 6. in the gym. The event, held in partnership with the Indiana Association for College Admission Counseling, was open to all juniors and seniors, with underclassmen attending by request. More than 40 colleges and universities were represented, speaking with students about their programs and scholarship opportunities.

This event supported the Michigan City Area Schools Strategic Plan by expanding Student Voice & Opportunities and Educating the Whole Child. By connecting students directly with college representatives and future pathways, the fair helped empower students to take ownership of their goals and prepare for success beyond high school. Special thanks were given to K-12 Future Readiness Specialist Michelle Gregory for coordinating this valuable opportunity.

Michigan City Area Schools is aligning classroom learning with real-world experience through new graduation seals that prepare students for success after high school. At a recent Michigan City Chamber of Commerce luncheon, Director of Student Services Kristi Davis shared updates on Indiana’s new high school diploma requirements, which will take effect with the Class of 2029.

The redesigned diploma adds courses in communication, personal finance, STEM, computer science, and world perspectives. Students can personalize their studies by pursuing one or more “Readiness Seals,” which focus on Enrollment (college), Employment, or Enlistment. Each pathway recognizes students for academic achievement, leadership, and hands-on learning experiences.

A key part of the new diploma is work-based learning. Students will complete 75 to 650 hours of authentic experiences such as internships, job shadowing, or apprenticeships. These opportunities allow students to apply classroom knowledge, build employability skills, and explore career interests. Davis explained that these partnerships also help local employers develop their future workforce.

This initiative supports Michigan City Area Schools’ Strategic Plan, particularly the pillars of Student Voice and Opportunities, Meeting the Needs of Diverse Learners, and Educating the Whole Child. By rethinking high school, MCAS is ensuring that every student graduates ready to take the next step toward college, career, or service.

These efforts also reflect the values of The Wolfie Way, the district-wide culture initiative that fosters pride, responsibility, and community connection. The same principles extend to the district’s attendance campaign, “Lead the Pack. Be Here. Be Ready.”, which reminds students that showing up on time and every day builds habits of success that translate directly into college and career readiness.

Community partnerships play a vital role in this work. Local businesses are encouraged to participate in upcoming events such as the Find Your Inspiration Career Fair on November 13 at Michigan City High School and the Inspire Young Minds event in the spring. Employers can also connect with students through Work and Learn Indiana, a program that matches students with work-based learning opportunities.

To learn more about Work-Based Learning opportunities, contact Director of Student Services Kristi Davis at k.davis@mcas.k12.in.us.

Michigan City High School invites all 8th-grade students and families, including those in public, private, charter, and homeschool settings, to attend Future Wolves Night on Thursday, November 20.

The event begins at 5:15 p.m. in the MCHS Auditorium (enter through Door P), featuring an academic showcase that highlights the Early College, Honors College, Indiana College Core, and Next Level Programs of Study. Families will meet MCHS counselors, principals, and teachers. Information about available clubs, extracurricular activities, and athletics will be shared in more detail during the Wolfpack Round-Up event, held later this school year.

Following the showcase, guests are invited to attend the MCHS Blue and White Varsity Scrimmage at 7:00 p.m. Eighth graders will receive free admission to the scrimmage, and adult tickets are $3 (cash or card). Giveaways and Wolfpack pride items will be distributed throughout the evening.

More information will be shared soon at educateMC.net and on district and school social media pages.

School board members and administrative staff served lunch at several schools during National School Lunch Week, which took place October 13 through October 17. The week promoted the importance of healthy school meals. All students received free meals thanks to the district’s participation in the USDA’s Community Eligibility Provision, and the district expressed gratitude to the Food Service staff for their vital role in supporting student learning. Special guests joined in serving lunch throughout the week—photos and highlights were shared on the Food Service Facebook page.

October 20 through October 24 was School Bus Safety Week, and information was shared on the MCAS District Facebook page throughout the week. Our Transportation Department took time to remind students about important safety precautions and to conduct safety drills.

We are especially grateful for our Transportation staff. They are the first to greet our students each morning and the last to see them safely home each afternoon. Their care, patience, and dedication play a key role in every child’s school day and in creating a safe, welcoming start and finish for our students across the district.

The second session took place on October 9 at the MCAS Service Building and Joy Elementary School. Ambassadors explored Making & Moving: Transportation and Technology and heard directly from Director of Transportation Sue Harrison and her team and Director of Technology Kevin McGuire.

Thank you to the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce for providing our breakfast

We are grateful for the strong community interest in this new program. Follow along on our Facebook page for updates and highlights: #MCASAmbassadors.

STAFF & STUDENT SHOUTOUTS

This November, we’re celebrating Barker Middle School English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher Kendall Summer-Pipkin!

👉 Read her full story here: EducateMC.net/MCASNews.

Congratulations to our outstanding student musicians from Barker Middle School, Krueger Middle School, and Michigan City High School who were selected for the 2025 Indiana Bandmasters Association (IBA) All-Region and All-District Honor Bands.

Middle School All-Region Selections:
Charlene Stewart – Oboe (Krueger Middle School)
Jasmine Anderson – Clarinet (Barker Middle School)
Dallas Washington – Clarinet (Barker Middle School)
Alisia Fisher – Tenor Saxophone (Barker Middle School)
Maycie White – Euphonium (Barker Middle School)
Carl Blakely Jr. – Tuba (Krueger Middle School)

High School All-Region Selections:
Katie Branch – Trombone
Railynn Malwin – Alto Saxophone

These students will perform on November 16 at Portage High School under the direction of Jeff Parthun, retired band director from West Lafayette.

High School All-District Selections:

Jada McKendree – Clarinet
Julianna Wolford – Clarinet
Josh Pratt – Bass Clarinet
Arianna Lemons – Alto Saxophone
Kenneth Oviatt – Alto Saxophone
Weston Smith – Trombone
David Symons – Trombone
Jimmy Biela – Percussion

These talented musicians will perform on November 23 at Kankakee Valley High School under the direction of Dr. Jeff Doebler from Valparaiso University. Follow Michigan City Area Schools Music on Facebook to see more updates.

Congratulations to our 2026 Unity Foundation of La Porte County Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Finalists Mia Palomo and Milad Mroueh! We wish them the very best as they move forward in the next phase of the Lilly Scholarship selection process. Winners will receive a full-tuition scholarship to pursue a bachelor’s degree at any accredited public or private Indiana college or university and an annual book stipend.

On October 16, the Rotary Club of Michigan City presented the 2025 Service Above Self Awards, recognizing individuals in the community who embody the club’s motto of “Service Above Self” through volunteerism, humanitarian work, and dedication to serving others in their profession.

Two members of Michigan City Area Schools were among this year’s honorees. Anise Williams, a Literacy Cadre Coach at Pine Elementary, received the Educator of the Year Award for her outstanding commitment to serving students and the community. Mrs. Williams was celebrated for her dedication, compassion, and leadership in helping students and staff reach their full potential.

Cadet Robert Pearce, a Michigan City High School student, was named JROTC Cadet of the Year for his leadership, service, and excellence both in the classroom and within the JROTC program.

These recognitions highlight the exceptional individuals within MCAS who demonstrate daily what it means to serve others and make a difference in the Michigan City community.

For more about Cadet Pearce’s award, visit EducateMC.net/MCASNews.

Former Michigan City Area Schools Communications Director Betsy Kohn was honored with the Inspiring Woman Award at the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce’s Inspiring Women Luncheon on October 2.

The Michigan City Chamber created this new award to recognize women who not only lead but also lift others through mentorship, compassion, and service. The award celebrates those whose impact extends beyond professional success and who empower others to reach their potential.

Betsy Kohn was selected as the recipient for her outstanding dedication to Michigan City Area Schools and the community. Throughout her career, she has inspired countless students, staff, and community members through her creativity, kindness, and commitment to making a difference. Her quiet leadership and genuine care for others truly embody what it means to be an inspiring woman.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS IN ACTION

Michigan City High School celebrated Homecoming on Friday, October 3, with a day full of school spirit and community pride. The evening kicked off with a lively parade at 6:00 p.m., which made its way from the Elston parking lot down Franklin Street to Ames Field.

The parade truly showcased The Wolfie Way students, as staff, and families from across the district came together to celebrate what it means to be One City, One Pack. MCAS schools, Pop Warner teams, clubs, and Homecoming candidates filled the streets with cheers, banners, and Wolf Pack Pride.

The excitement continued at Ames Field, where the Wolves took on Portage in front of a packed crowd. At halftime, the Homecoming Queen and King, Ana’leesa Toney and Milad Mroueh, were crowned, and the Wolfpack Marching Band delivered an incredible performance. The night ended with a big win for the Wolves and lasting memories of a community united in school spirit.

Find MCHS athletics schedules at GoMCWolves.com

Thank you to our friends at the La Porte County Public Library for providing operations internet at Ames Field for the Homecoming Game via their mobile library. "Open a book, open your mind."

Michigan City High School hosted a Full-Scale Safety Preparedness Drill on October 16 to strengthen coordination among school staff and local first responders. The exercise, held in partnership with Florida-based C3 Pathways, allowed participants to practice emergency procedures in a controlled setting.

Representatives from the Michigan City Fire and Police Departments, La Porte Police Department, La Porte County EMS and Sheriff’s Office, South Bend Fire Department, and Porter County Emergency Management joined school and district staff to work through a simulated emergency scenario. About 50 staff and student volunteers took part in the training.

This exercise was a proactive step to ensure that Michigan City Area Schools remain well-prepared and safe learning environments. Feedback from the event will be used to strengthen emergency response plans and continue enhancing safety practices across all schools.

Special thanks to Director of Student Services Kristi Davis for helping coordinate this event and getting the process started, and to Director of Communications Megan Daurer for assisting with communications support.

Barker Middle School students’ engineering skills rose to the occasion during the annual Egg Crash STEM Challenge Finals, held with support from the Michigan City Fire Department. Twenty-seven teams from Barker Middle School, Coolspring , Knapp, and Lake Hills Elementary Schools gathered to test their designs by protecting a raw egg dropped from a 100-foot height using only limited materials.

Of the 27 entries, 17 eggs survived the fall. An impressive display of creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork. Barker also invited business and community teams to participate in the challenge, held at noon on October 23, to join in the fun and test their engineering ingenuity.

Heartfelt thanks went to STEM teacher Amy Hamann for organizing this exciting hands-on learning experience and to the Michigan City Fire Department for helping make the event possible. The Egg Crash Challenge once again demonstrated how Barker students continue to reach the Next Level through curiosity, collaboration, and innovation.

Lake Hills Elementary hosted the NCAA Read to the Final Four® Fan Jam on Friday, October 24, for third-grade students. The school was thrilled to welcome the NCAA and its partners for a fun-filled literacy celebration that encouraged students to take their reading to the next level.

Students participated in literacy cheers, shot hoops, tested their vertical jumps, and wrote cards wishing their favorite college teams luck this season. The Read to the Final Four® initiative, launched in 2016, supports the NCAA’s commitment to education and literacy and aligns closely with our district’s City Reads initiative, which promotes daily reading at home.

A major highlight of the day was a surprise $1,000 check presented to Ms. Shimala to support literacy in her classroom. It was an inspiring celebration of reading, teamwork, and school spirit, a perfect example of how community partnerships can make learning exciting and meaningful for our students.

Talented Michigan City High School MCHS seniors Abby, Amaya, and Jonathan brought Principal Dr. Mroueh’s office wall to life with their mural, proudly showcasing wolf pack spirit and creativity. When Reprographic Arts, Inc. saw the post about the project on the school’s Facebook page, they reached out to surprise the student artists with custom sweatshirts featuring their design.

The mural is a testament to the creativity and pride of MCHS students, and this thoughtful gesture from Reprographic Arts reflects the strong community partnerships that help our students shine.

Military Family Appreciation Month, American Indian & Alaska Native Heritage Month, National Homeless Youth Awareness Month

MCAS has a scheduled early release day on Tuesday, November 4. On Early Release days, students will be dismissed early to allow teachers and staff to participate in professional development. Students will receive assignments to complete at home during the afternoon. Some of those assignments may require students to access information online, however, there will not be live instruction. Little Wolves Learning Center will operate on a normal schedule.
Learn more at EducateMC.net/earlyrelease.

Get ready to celebrate National STEM Day! MCAS values the importance of a STEM education, especially at our STEM magnet schools, Barker Middle School and Lake Hills Elementary. We want to shout out our students in LaPorte County Career & Technical Education programs, who apply STEM skills every day through pathways such as Smart Manufacturing, Energy Academy, and Health Careers Academy. Stay tuned as we lift up the young innovators and critical thinkers shaping the future right here in the Wolf Pack!

The Michigan City High School JROTC will host its annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony on Tuesday, November 11th, at 1:30 pm in the school gym. The guest speaker will be Michigan City Mayor Angie Nelson Deutich. The ceremony, which also involves the MCHS band and choir, is open to the public. Visitors should enter through Door J by Athletics. Veterans are especially encouraged to attend, as all services will be honored during the ceremony.

The LaPorte County CTE Culinary Arts program will host a Friendsgiving fundraiser on Thursday, November 13, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Career Cafe at Elston (317 Detroit St). The event will feature a delicious Thanksgiving meal, prizes, raffles, and more. The cost is $20 for adults and $10 for kids ages 6-12.

This is a fundraiser for the students’ trip to Orlando in the spring to take part in the Cook Around the World competition. Tickets are available from Chef Angie Nipple (a.nipple@mcas.k12.in.us) or by using the QR code on the event flyer or the buttons below.

The Michigan City High School Drama Club will present the musical Mean Girls: High School Version this November. Performances will be held Friday and Saturday, November 14–15, at 7:00 p.m., with a Sunday matinee on November 16 at 2:00 p.m. New this year, middle school students will join the ensemble.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students (cash only). Special thanks to Drama Club sponsor Angie Gresham, assisted by Kristi Steinhiser—and “break a leg” to the cast and crew!

Michigan City Area Schools will join school districts and communities across the nation in celebrating American Education Week (November 17-21). This is a week set aside each year to recognize the important role of our public schools and public school employees. Our teachers, administrators, and support staff are rising to the challenge every day to ensure our students receive high-quality learning opportunities and that their social-emotional needs are supported. We encourage the community to show support for Team MCAS during this week!

Michigan City Area Schools proudly recognizes National Education Support Professionals Day and honors the many dedicated staff members who play a vital role in our schools each day. From our paraprofessionals, custodians, and food service teams to our bus drivers, secretaries, and technology staff, and so much more, these individuals help create safe, welcoming, and supportive environments where students can thrive. Their hard work and commitment exemplify The Wolfie Way and reflect the pride, care, and excellence that define our district. We are grateful for all that you do to support our students, staff, and community.

In connection with the Culture and Environment pillar, the next Community Conversation (public facilities meeting) is scheduled for Wednesday, November 19, at 6:00 p.m. at Krueger Middle School. The discussion will include updates on the middle school configuration and the soccer, track, and tennis complex at the high school. Feedback is always valuable. If attending in person isn’t possible, please reach out to me and share your thoughts and ideas.

All Michigan City Area Schools will be closed for Thanksgiving Break from November 24 through November 28. We encourage our students, staff, and families to take this time to relax, recharge, and enjoy the holiday with loved ones. Regular classes will resume on Monday, December 1.

Join Michigan City Area Schools in the Festival of Lights Parade! This annual community event is a wonderful opportunity to show your holiday spirit, celebrate school pride, and demonstrate what it means to walk the Wolfie Way. Whether you join us in the parade or cheer from the sidewalk, we look forward to celebrating the season together. The parade runs south from 4th Street to 9th Street beginning at 5:00 p.m.

The One City One Sound districtwide holiday concert will take place this year on Thursday, December 11, at 7:00pm at Michigan City High School in the gym. This performance will feature vocal and instrumental ensembles from Barker Middle School, Krueger Middle School, and Michigan City High School. Special thanks to the music teachers and the many others who are working behind the scenes to organize this special event. More information will be shared soon to families. Please be sure to check the Michigan City Area Schools Music Facebook page for updates.

The following Michigan City High School student-athletes were recently honored with an IHSAA Champion of High School Sports pin for demonstrating outstanding sportsmanship:

Pictured (L-R): Marc Fitzpatrick - Football, Dezmon Howard - Football, Madelyn Parry - Cross Country, Allison Sydow - Soccer, Trin Rouse-Hart - Football, Izaiah Gipson - Football, and Bella Ketcham - Volleyball

This recognition celebrates athletes who represent the true spirit of high school athletics: respect, integrity, and leadership both on and off the field. These students embody The Wolfie Way, showing what it means to compete with character, support their teammates, and take pride in representing the Wolfpack.

Congratulations to our honorees for leading by example and making MCHS proud.

Michigan City Area Schools Athletic Director Ben Bachmann and Assistant Director Sara Krachinski received a $2,000 donation from the Michigan City Exchange Club to help provide athletic uniforms for the district’s eight elementary schools.

MCAS thanks the Exchange Club for its continued support of youth athletics and school pride.

Want to keep up with Michigan City High School athletics? Visit the MCHS Athletics website for schedules, scores, and team news. You can also follow Wolves Athletics on social media for photos, updates, and highlights throughout each season.

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The Wolves Fall Athletics season is underway, and I urge you to visit our new athletics website, GoMCWolves.com, to view the schedule for our teams in Cross Country, Football, Girls Golf, Boys Tennis, Soccer, and Girls Volleyball.

Fall season Athletic passes are now available for purchase in the Athletic Department Office at the high school or at home athletic events. The cost is $50 for adults, $30 for students. This year, an annual pass will also be sold for $125. GO WOLVES!

Ready to roll up your sleeves and support our future leaders? From reading to kids and helping in the library, to mentoring through robotics or Safe Harbor, your time and talent make a huge impact. Visit our Visitors & Volunteers page to download the simple form and get started—with just a background check, you’ll be approved for three years of volunteering! Head over today and join us in empowering students across MCAS.

Learn more and sign up at educateMC.net/volunteer.

Michigan City Area Schools is proud to partner with the Economic Development Corporation Michigan City, Indiana, and the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce to expand work-based learning opportunities for our high school students.

We are currently seeking local businesses that can open their doors to students eager to explore career paths. Whether you can offer a job shadow, part-time job, internship, or apprenticeship, your business can help shape tomorrow’s workforce while gaining eager, motivated talent today.

This year, Michigan City High School students are already making an impact through these experiences. Alexis Gresham is gaining hands-on knowledge with South Shore Public Relations, while Abigail Mcclead is exploring the insurance industry through her placement with Crowel Insurance. Their stories highlight the power of connecting students with real-world learning in our community.

Additional partnerships with local businesses include Sera Group, LaPorte County Public Library, Regal Rexnord, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group, Soul Food Bistro, Hitachi, Novak Law, and The Brew Box. We look forward to sharing more about these experiences in the months ahead.

They keep our classrooms running and our students learning—thank you to our amazing substitute educators! 💙 November 21 is Substitute Educators Day, and there’s no better time to join the Pack!

Start your journey as an MCAS substitute today at EducateMC.net/employment.

Michigan City Area Schools is looking for dedicated individuals to join our team. Current openings include positions in food service, transportation, and other support roles across the district. We are also seeking substitute teachers to help us maintain a strong learning environment for our students.

If you or someone you know is interested in making a difference in the lives of students while working in a supportive, community-focused environment, we encourage you to apply.

Visit EducateMC.net/employment to view open positions and apply today.

Each MCAS school and department has their own Facebook page! Follow to get the latest updates.

Michigan City High School

Michigan City Wolves Athletics

Barker Middle School

Krueger Middle School

Coolspring Elementary School

Edgewood Elementary School

Joy Elementary School

Knapp Elementary School

Lake Hills Elementary School

Marsh Elementary School

Pine Elementary School

Family and friends of Springfield School

Little Wolves Early Learning Center

MCAS Non-Traditional Programs

Safe Harbor

La Porte County Career and Technical Education

AKScissory

AK Smith Culinary Arts

Wolf Automotive