What's Up Whitehall?
February 2023
Beth Deichmeister, Zephyr Elementary, 5th grade ELA
How many years have you worked in education?
38
How many years have you worked in the district?
35
What are your favorite hobbies?
Reading and crafting
What do you love about the Whitehall-Coplay School District?
I love the school spirit in our community. We are diverse in nature , but we come together to support our students in their academic, artistic and athletic endeavors.
What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?
Don't worry. It will all work out.
Justin Tice, High School, Biology & Chemistry Teacher
How many years have you worked in education?
11
How many years have you worked in the district?
11
What are your favorite hobbies?
Hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, working out, hanging out with my friends and my family
What do you love about the Whitehall-Coplay School District?
Whitehall has become a second home to me. We have a unique community, student population and staff that make for an outstanding district where we all have the opportunity to learn and grow together. Over the years, those I work with have become like family to me. I am grateful for all of the growth, experience and opportunities this district and community have provided me.
What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?
Trust yourself, help others, work hard, and dream big.
Andrea Campbell, Steckel Elementary, ESOL 2nd/3rd grade
How many years have you worked in education?
4 years
How many years have you worked in the district?
2 years
What are your favorite hobbies?
Reading thrillers, watching scary movies, and spending time with my family and five pets.
What do you love about the Whitehall-Coplay School District?
I love the global diversity within our community.
What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?
I would tell myself to accept the chaos and learn how to roll with change.
Lisa Barr, Middle School, 6, 7, 8, Emotional Support Teacher (in January I switch to 6, 7, 8, Inclusion Support Teacher )
How many years have you worked in education?
10 years
How many years have you worked in the district?
7 years
What are your favorite hobbies?
Shopping, crafting, and spending time with my family
What do you love about the Whitehall-Coplay School District?
I love working with my amazing students who are fun, interested, and full of curiosity. It makes me feel good, to hear the excitement that comes from their diverse minds when learning something new. I also enjoy the staff that I work with, who make coming to work enjoyable every day.
What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?
Breathe deep, take time and do what makes you feel good.
Whitehall-Coplay School District would like to recognize the following personnel appointed at the January School Board Meetings. Congratulations on your new role!
Amy Blose, Head Cook at Whitehall High School
Catherine Hess, Special Education Teacher at Steckel Elementary
Christian Malone, Computer Technician/Help Desk
Denise Ritter, Principal’s Secretary at Zephyr Elementary
Donna Yankanich, Transportation Secretary
Heather Thomas, Reading/Literacy Paraprofessional at Gockley Elementary
Logan Kendy, School Counselor at Whitehall High School
Zephyr Graduate of Distinction
Do you know a “Zephyr Graduate of Distinction”? If so, Whitehall-Coplay School District eagerly awaits the opportunity to recognize our graduates accomplished in the areas of:
- Academic achievement
- Music
- The Arts
- Civic and/or military service
- Community service
- Significant personal achievements
Selection Criteria:
Any graduate of the high school, past or present employee, or past or present resident of the district may submit a nomination. A nomination submitted will continue in the active nomination file for five (5) years.
- The nominee must have graduated at least ten (10) years prior to nomination unless due to the nominee being deceased.
- The nominee must have excelled in their career or made an outstanding contribution to society.
- Individuals may be nominated for achievements in academics, music, the arts, civic and/or military service, community service, or a significant personal achievement.
- Inductees will be limited to 3-5 individuals in any given year.
Selection Process:
A selection committee shall meet yearly to review applications and to select members to the Hall of Fame. A 2/3 vote is necessary for admission. When applications exceed the number of available selections, they will be selected in the order of most votes cast with a simple majority minimum required.
Recognition:
An inscribed nameplate shall be added to the Hall of Fame plaque in a designated area of the high school. A plaque shall also be given to the recipient or their representative. Acknowledgment of the award shall be made at the Whitehall High School National Honor Society Induction Ceremony held in spring.
