Connections Digital Newsletter
November 10, 2022
The Wayne - Westland Wrap Up - October 2026
Dear Wayne-Westland Families,
This year, we began a partnership with Capturing Kids Hearts. I had heard of this organization and the positive impact it made on their schools. In May, I attended a two-day training and could easily see why. I could immediately see the potential it had for our students!
What makes Capturing Kids Hearts so powerful? Their mantra is simple: To win students' hearts and lead them to their personal best. This summer, Capturing Kids Hearts facilitators trained teachers, bus drivers, secretaries, and administrators to build meaningful relationships, create safe environments for growth, and develop common expectations.
Through this program, students will have a greater desire to come to school and will feel part of their school community. They will feel a sense of belonging, which will translate to greater academic growth. This has been proven in schools across the nation that have adopted Capturing Kids Hearts. I'm excited to continue to see the progress and impact of this program!
Sincerely,
Catherine Cost, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Trunk or Treat
Our third annual Trunk or Treat was a huge success! Thank you to all of our staff and community partners who made this event possible for our students.
Employee of the Year
Congratulations to Our 2025-2026 Employees of the Year
Wayne-Westland Community Schools is proud to celebrate our 2025-2026 Employees of the Year!
These outstanding individuals make a difference in the lives of our students, families and colleagues every day. Thank you for your dedication, hard work and commitment to our district.
Please join us in congratulating our award recipients:
- Paraprofessional of the Year: Jessica Saylors
- Elementary Teacher of the Year: Julie Cloke
- Secondary Teacher of the Year: Heather Nimmerguth
- Ancillary Employee of the Year: Tracey Bunse
- Central Office Employee of the Year: Kimberly Markey
- Principal of the Year: Christine Swanson
- Secretary of the Year: Kathryn Fabrey
- Skilled Trades Employee of the Year: Tye Moore
- Food Service Employee of the Year: Tiffany Harvey
- Transportation Employee of the Year: Joseph Singleton
- Custodian of the Year: Kristan Bryant
- Special Projects Employee of the Year: Takeisha Webster
Thank you for all you do to make Wayne-Westland Community Schools a special place to learn, work and grow. We are grateful to have you on our team.
Preschool Openings
We still have openings in our Sunshine and Rainbows Preschool Program for children ages 2.5–5 years.
Classes meet Tuesday–Friday
- Morning Program: 8:00-9:30 AM.
- Afternoon Program: 12:00-1:30 PM.
2026/2027 Tuition:
- $550 for the entire school year.
Give your little one a fun and nurturing start to learning. Learn more and register here: https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSeL0n3M03H.../viewform
John Glenn Athletic Hall of Fame Nominations Are Open
Help us celebrate the rich history and tradition of John Glenn High School athletics. Nominate a deserving athlete, coach, community member, or legacy team for this year's or a future Hall of Fame class.
The selection committee will review all nominations.
Please review the eligibility criteria and include accomplishments and accolades as possible to support your nominee.
Submit your nomination here: https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSdEwS9ViqVCNg.../viewform
Early Middle College Information Night
Are you a high school student looking to earn college credits for free while still in high school? Join us for Early Middle College Information Night.
Learn:
- How the program works
- Eligibility and application requirements
- What students can expect from the program
- How to get started
Join us for a virtual meeting on one of the dates below
- Thursday, November 19, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
- Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86498029888
- Wednesday, January 20, 2027 at 6:30 p.m.
- Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88413647714
Or join us in-person at Wayne-Westland Innovative Academy - 5400 Fourth Street, Wayne, MI, 48184 on:
- Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
- Thursday, January 28, 2027 at 6:30 p.m.
Reminder: No School November 3, 2026
Internet Safety Presentation for Parents
Join our Technology Department and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for Beyond the Screen: Keeping Our Kids Safe. This internet safety presentation will be at:
- 6:00 p.m.
- Thursday, November 19, 2026
- William D. Ford Career-Technical Center, 36455 Marquette, Westland, 48185