Zephyr Zipline

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Effective immediately, the WCSD App has been discontinued. The Whitehall-Coplay School District will no longer be using the app and all information has been deleted. Please utilize the Powerschool App to receive communication from the district. Thank you!

The Profile of a Zephyr is a graduate profile developed by the Whitehall-Coplay School District that outlines the ten essential traits every student is expected to possess by graduation. These ten traits—adaptable, collaborative, communicative, confident, creative, critical thinker, empathetic, leader, responsible, and problem solver—were chosen to ensure students are prepared for life beyond the classroom. The profile is named after the district's mascot, the Zephyr, which represents a gentle, west wind, symbolizing forward movement and change.

The creation of the Profile of a Zephyr was a community-wide effort. The district's steering committee conducted a comprehensive survey of students, staff, families, and local community businesses and stakeholders. This broad outreach was designed to identify the skills and mindsets that the community collectively values and believes are crucial for success in the 21st century. The feedback was analyzed to pinpoint the ten most frequently cited traits, which were then officially adopted as the core components of the profile. This inclusive process ensured the profile reflects the shared aspirations of the entire community, not just the school administration.

The Whitehall-Coplay School District uses the Profile of a Zephyr to create a unified and consistent educational experience across all grade levels and buildings. We intentionally weave these ten traits into the academic curriculum, social-emotional learning programs, and school-wide positive behavior initiatives to build a common language and set of expectations from kindergarten through 12th grade. This integration helps students become familiar with the traits over time, fostering a cohesive and continuous learning environment. The profile serves as a guiding framework for all educational decisions, from curriculum development to professional development for teachers, ensuring that all efforts are aligned toward the goal of producing graduates who embody these characteristics. Ultimately, we are equipping students with the skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world, enabling them to succeed not only in college or a career but also as active, engaged citizens.

Incorporating the ten traits of the Profile of a Zephyr is foundational to each building in the Whitehall-Coplay School District. Each month, we will highlight a specific trait and how students throughout the district are exemplifying what it takes to be a successful Zephyr.

Starting middle school can be a huge challenge for many students. Moving from a small elementary school to a larger building with new schedules and hundreds of new faces can be overwhelming, and at WCMS, we address this challenge directly through our Student Ambassador program, which is built entirely on the Profile of a Zephyr trait: empathy. Empathy is more than just being friendly; it is the ability to truly understand and share the feelings of a new peer navigating a confusing environment. Our Ambassadors actively seek to show inclusiveness by welcoming students who are new, different, or sitting alone. They are also trained to offer support and comfort by observing when a student is frustrated or anxious, stepping in with kind words, a listening ear, or practical help without even being asked.

Our ambassadors lead building tours, assist with lockers and Chromebooks, and serve as lunch buddies to ensure no student eats alone. By introducing new students to staff and peers and following up on their progress, they turn a potentially difficult first day into a positive step into middle school life. We are incredibly proud of these WCMS students that demonstrate the Profile of a Zephyr, using their capacity for empathy to build a stronger, more compassionate, and welcoming community for all.

Here at Whitehall-Coplay School District, our classrooms are buzzing with energy as students take on hands-on projects, collaborative learning, and creative challenges. From STEM experiments to artistic endeavors, the spirit of "We Are Zephyrs" shines through in every lesson, reflecting our pride and commitment to excellence.

The kindergarten classes are completing fun activities based on the nursery rhymes they have been learning during the month of September in our newly adopted Amplify curriculum. Students are practicing phonological awareness when they practice rhyming and learning many new vocabulary words through the use of nursery rhymes. Our kindergarten hallway and classrooms look beautiful with student work showcasing the rhymes they have learned!

In this section, we are proud to shine a spotlight on the incredible educators of Whitehall-Coplay, as nominated by 12th grade students whose lives they've impacted. These teachers have gone above and beyond to inspire, support, and make a lasting impact, embodying the true spirit of "We Are Zephyrs".

How has this faculty/staff member contributed to your personal growth or academic journey?

He always believed in me and my ability in class. I will always be grateful for how he treated us more as adults than kids.

What do you appreciate most about this faculty/staff member?

He always kept class fun and interesting even while teaching boring topics.

How has this faculty/staff member contributed to your personal growth or academic journey?

She helped me become more social and give more love to knowledge. Without her, I wouldn't be so motivated to know more about things. She shows me that it's important to ask questions. As well, she motivated me to pursue higher education. Without her, I don't think I would have even thought about trying and motivate myself to get a Doctorate in my life.

What do you appreciate most about this faculty/staff member?

Her energy and love for books and how she can interact easily with students because she would most likely experience the things where some kids have experienced and because of that we can talk to her with so many positive things and even hilarious and cringy things in life.

Every Wednesday, students and staff across all Whitehall schools, from kindergarten to 12th grade, come together to celebrate Whitehall Wednesday! On this special day, everyone is encouraged to wear their Whitehall gear—whether it’s a T-shirt, hoodie, or hat—to show their school spirit.

Whitehall Wednesday is more than just wearing school colors; it’s about fostering unity and pride. From our youngest learners to our seniors, this weekly tradition helps build a strong sense of community across all grades.

So don’t forget—every Wednesday, wear your Whitehall gear and join the fun!

Did you know that each of the buildings at Whitehall-Coplay School District has their own social media accounts? Check out how each building is telling their #WeAreZephyrs story!

Effective immediately, parking on grass areas around campus is prohibited. Please park in authorized parking areas making sure to follow all posted signage. Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our campus well maintained and safe.

In an ongoing effort to create traffic patterns that maintain safety and efficiency within the Whitehall-Coplay School District campus, the following update took effect on Monday, August 25, 2025 for Elementary arrival and dismissal.

• Parents with their youngest child in Gockley, should enter from Mechanicsville Rd. and join the queue.
• Parents with their youngest child at either Steckel or Zephyr should enter at MacArthur Rd. or the Campus Dr. entrances off of Schadt Ave. or Mechanicsville Rd.
• Cars will no longer be allowed to turn from Zephyr Blvd. onto Whitehall Way. (See campus maps)
• Our School Resource Officers and local police will monitor traffic in person and through cameras.

Thank you for your assistance in making our campus a safer place for all.

Parent/guardian should navigate to PowerSchool to report an absence through SafeArrival.

Directions:

On the PowerSchool Mobile App

1.Log in to your parent portal

2. Choose Menu-SafeArrival

3. Report an absence

On desktop

1. Log in to your parent portal

2. Navigate to MyPowerHUb on the left-hand side

3.Choose Attendance-Safe Arrival Attendance

4.Report an absence

SafeArrival should be used for planned absences and unplanned absences. Lates and early departures should be reported directly to your child’s school.

Gockley & Steckel Breakfast/Lunch - October

Zephyr Breakfast/Lunch - October

MS Breakfast/Lunch - October

HS Breakfast/Lunch - October

October

8 Early Dismissal for Professional Development (Lunch will be served)

13 No School for Students

November

3 Professional Development Day (No School for Students)

24-25 Parent/Teacher Conferences (No School for Students)

26-28 Thanksgiving Break (No School for Students)

December

1 Thanksgiving Break (No School for Students)

22-31 Winter Break (No School for Students)

Need to get in touch with school personnel? The link below provides all the information you need on who to contact and how to reach them. Click the button below to find the right person to assist you!

WHITEHALL-COPLAY
PTO PLUS
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Volunteer and be a part of these fun events!

• Children's Day
• Holiday Shoppers Shop
• Field Day
• Book Fair
• Valentine Sales

Email volunteerswcpto@gmail.com to be informed of our volunteer opportunities or with questions on clearances.

All volunteers must have clearances and a TB test at this time.
Clearances and the TB test are free for volunteers!

Please click this link to view the monthly Title 1 Parent Newsletter.

Did you know that Lehigh Career & Technical Institute shares a monthly newsletter highlighting its programs and offerings? Check it out - https://bit.ly/lctinews

I am eager to continue working with our students, staff, and families as we begin the 25-26 school. The past 12 years of my 20+ years in education have been at Whitehall as a Fifth Grade Teacher and a Math Instructional Support Teacher at Zephyr Elementary. During my time there I continued my own education by obtaining my Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction and my Principal Certification from Kutztown University.

I am proud to be Lila and Moses's mom, who are third generation Zephyrs themselves! When I'm not chaperoning or working in the snack stand to help support Lila's beloved Marching Zephyr Band, we are shopping at thrift stores. My tennis game has improved since Moses and I are on the court at Hockey and Cementon Parks. I enjoy my garden in the summer, Marvel movies when I can't get outside, and coffee year round!

I believe in the greatness of our community and I'm so grateful to have witnessed all the amazing changes that Whitehall-Coplay has gone through not just in my tenure here as a student, but also as an educator.

As an Assistant Principal I will help our incredible students see the greatness within themselves and, alongside Mrs. Saylor, serve our dedicated staff and supportive families with love.

I’m excited to be joining the Whitehall-Coplay School District as the new Assistant Principal at Steckel Elementary. This role is especially meaningful to me, as my father was a 5th grade teacher in Whitehall for many years. Coming back to this district feels like it is meant to be!

Before joining the team at Steckel, I served as a 5th grade teacher, instructional coach, content specialist, and assistant principal for grades 6–8. I earned my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from Penn State University and hold master’s degrees in Classroom Technology from Wilkes University and Educational Leadership from Lehigh University.

I believe in setting high expectations for all students, supporting growth academically, socially, and emotionally, and bringing enthusiasm and joy to the school experience. School should be fun, and all students are capable of learning and growing.

Outside of school, I enjoy going to concerts, mowing the lawn and landscaping, spending time in the Poconos, boating on Lake Wallenpaupack, and cheering on the Minnesota Vikings and Penn State Nittany Lions. I’m grateful to share my life with my wonderful wife and our three young children.

I look forward to meeting you and working with your children this year at Steckel Elementary!

It is with great excitement and honor that I introduce myself as the new Assistant Principal of Zephyr Elementary School. My name is Ryan Johnson, and I am incredibly eager to join this welcoming community and partner with you as we begin another promising school year. I am genuinely looking forward to getting to know each of our students, the dedicated staff, and the supportive families that make Zephyr Elementary such a special place.

My journey in education began right here in the Lehigh Valley. I attended Bethlehem Catholic High School before going on to Lebanon Valley College, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood and Special Education. During my time at Lebanon Valley, I also had the privilege of playing football. Later, I continued my education, earning a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Delaware Valley University.

My career in education has provided me with diverse experiences across various grade levels and roles. I began my career in the Derry Township School District as a Kindergarten and first-grade Emotional Support Teacher. From there, I moved to the Lebanon Area School District, where I served as a Learning Support Teacher for sixth to eighth-grade Students. Most recently, before joining the Zephyr family, I served as a fifth-grade Learning Support Teacher and also as the Dean of Students in the Northampton Area School District. Each of these experiences has deepened my commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment for all students.

Currently, I reside in Allentown, PA. Outside of school, I'm a big Philadelphia Eagles and Philadelphia Phillies fan, so you'll often find me cheering on our local teams! I also enjoy golfing, spending time outdoors, and staying active at the gym.

I firmly believe that all children are capable of learning and achieving great things. My core educational values center on fostering strong relationships with students, staff, and community members. I believe that by working collaboratively, we can create a supportive and engaging environment where every student feels valued, challenged, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.

I am genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity to work alongside the Zephyr students, staff, and families. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns or wish to connect. Your partnership is invaluable as we strive to make this an exceptional school year for everyone!

It is my pleasure to serve you as an assistant principal this year. Over the past 26 years, I have served as an elementary paraprofessional, a middle school math and science teacher, and as a high school assistant principal. Currently, I’m in my 7th year as an assistant principal at Whitehall-Coplay Middle School and have enjoyed each aspect of my career path.

My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Cedar Crest College, a Master’s of Education in ESOL from Penn State and a Principal Certification from Cabrini University.

When I’m not at school, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two children. They help motivate and encourage me to do my very best when serving the Whitehall-Coplay community. In addition to spending time with my family, I enjoy working out, traveling, and doing DIY projects around the house.

As this new school year approaches, I’m excited to get to know you and your child better as we work together to make you and your child’s experience at the Middle School the best it can be.

I am thrilled to be at Whitehall-Coplay Middle School as one of your Assistant Principals. With over two decades of experience as a teacher and assistant principal, I have focused on building strong relationships, fostering an inclusive school climate, and decreasing chronic absenteeism by partnering with families to support the whole child.

My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from West Chester University, a Master of Arts in Reading from East Stroudsburg University, and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership with a Principal Certification from Delaware Valley University. I am currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Lehigh University.

I am passionate about fostering a positive and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive. I believe in the power of strong school-community partnerships andlove to collaborate with families, staff, and the community to create a thriving learning environment for our students.

When I'm not at school, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two daughters, gardening, hiking, and exploring new places through travel. I am also a huge Philly sports fan – Go Birds!

I am excited to be part of Whitehall-Coplay community and look forward to working with you all to ensure the success of our students.

Since December 2006, I have served the Whitehall-Coplay School District as Whitehall High School Assistant Principal. During this time, I have had the extreme pleasure to work with the students and staff of WHS helping to provide excellent opportunities for academic success. In my role as Assistant Principal, I coordinate many of the high school’s academic and assessment programs. Whitehall High School offers various programs to help all students achieve their personal best. As we begin a new school year, we once again offer many new and exciting opportunities for students to grow academically, develop personally, and become an active member of the school community.

Prior to becoming a school administrator, I served as a middle school Mathematics Specialist and high school Mathematics Teacher in the Nazareth Area School District. I started my teaching career in the Easton Area School District as a high school Mathematics teacher. I also served both districts as a club advisor to SADD.

In preparation for my teaching career, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Education degree from Millersville University. I continued my education at Lehigh University, where I earned a Master's of Education degree in the program of Educational Leadership and continued to extend my education at Lehigh to obtain Principal and Superintendent PK-12 certifications. Through my continued education, I have had the opportunity to broaden my background in leading a standards-based instructional program, strengthen my administrative and leadership skills, and gain a district-wide perspective of shared leadership.

As a graduate, musician and student-athlete of Liberty High School, I learned the value of excellence in education and school pride. Throughout all of my educational opportunities, I have held these principles close to my heart and continue to strive to provide students with similar opportunities. As an adult, I continue to enjoy my passion for learning, love of reading, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

I look forward to the year ahead and wish everyone a fabulous and successful school year. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of further assistance.

It is my pleasure to serve you as an assistant principal this year. Before becoming an assistant principal, I had many rewarding experiences in the Whitehall-Coplay School District as a special education teacher and social studies teacher.

My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with special education and social studies certifications from Kutztown University and a Master’s of Education in Educational Leadership with Principal Certification from Delaware Valley University.

As a graduate of Whitehall High School, my passion and commitment to our school community are evident in my interactions with all stakeholders, built on respect and honest communication. I am blessed to have two children of my own, Liv and Deacon. I have the same expectations for them as I do for our students. I believe my role in their learning experience is to challenge them to succeed to their highest potential, provide support in times of need, and equip them with the skills needed to become productive and responsible citizens in an ever-changing future.

It is my privilege to be a part of the Whitehall High School community along with the many talented teachers and students here! I look forward to working alongside various stakeholders as we strive towards excellence and continue to develop a school of which our diverse community can be proud. Please feel free to contact me or see me with any questions or concerns.

I am thrilled to be a part of the exceptional administrative team at Whitehall High School for the 2025-2026 school year. With 13 years of experience as a dedicated biology and chemistry teacher at WHS, and having served as Assistant Principal at Salisbury High School in the latter half of the 2023-2024 school year, I bring a deep commitment to our school community and a strong desire to support its continuous growth and evolution for the betterment of our students.

In 2009, I earned my Bachelor's degree in Biology with a concentration in Integrative Organismal Biology from East Stroudsburg University. Following my passion for teaching, I completed a Master's degree in Professional and Secondary Education in 2011, also at East Stroudsburg University. I am curently a Doctoral candidate at East Stroudsburg University, working towards an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Administration.

As Assistant Principal, I aim to cultivate a safe and inclusive learning environment that empowers students to realize their full potential. I am a passionate lifelong learner and strive to inspire this quality in our students. I firmly believe in the transformative power of collaboration to support students in achieving their highest aspirations. Through clear and consistent communication and a commitment to innovation, I seek to foster an environment that promotes equitable academic excellence and a strong sense of community.

Together with the Whitehall-Coplay School District community, I am eager to embrace new opportunities, promote student success, and continue building a vibrant and supportive educational environment where every student thrives.

Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns. I welcome and encourage open communication in support of our school and students.

Zackary Hartman, Salaried Building Substitute Whitehall High School

Skye Seabron, Paraprofessional, Whitehall-Coplay Middle School

Zachary Schultz, Paraprofessional, Whitehall High School

Leila Leibensperger, Paraprofessional, Whitehall High School

Massiel Grullon, Paraprofessional, Whitehall High School

Mayada Gebril, Paraprofessional, Gockley Elementary

Patricia Nassif, Paraprofessional, Gockley Elementary

How many years have you worked in education?

This is the start of my 10th year.

What are your favorite hobbies?

Field hockey, baseball games, walking the dog, and trying new restaurants

What is your educational background?

Graduated from East Stroudsburg University in 2015 where I was a field hockey student athlete and still coach camp each summer. I have worked in the Allentown School District for the last nine years and have coached field hockey, volleyball, basketball, girls on the run and track.

Why did you feel that joining the Whitehall-Coplay community was the right choice for you?

Amazing athletic facilities and coaching opportunities. Also, my fiance and his sister both graduated from Whitehall and loved their experiences here.

What aspects of Whitehall-Coplay have impressed you most, so far?

The student's attendance, engagement, level of respect and willingness to learn/try knew things.

How many years have you worked in education?

4 years

What are your favorite hobbies?

I like to read, take care of my house plants, listen to Taylor Swift, and bake.

What is your educational background?

I graduated from East Stroudsburg University with my bachelor's degree and am currently pursuing my master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction at American College of Education. My first three years teaching were at Gloucester City Middle School in South Jersey where I taught 4th, 6th, and 8th grade. This is my first year teaching at Whitehall!

Why did you feel that joining the Whitehall-Coplay community was the right choice for you?

I felt that joining the Whitehall-Coplay community was the right choice because of the strong school spirit and pride that can be felt throughout the district. It’s clear that this is a tight-knit community that values connection, teamwork, and supporting one another. I was also drawn to the emphasis on building positive teacher-student relationships, which I believe is the foundation for meaningful learning and student success. I’m excited to be part of a district where those values are at the heart of everything we do.

What aspects of Whitehall-Coplay have impressed you most, so far?

What has impressed me most so far about Whitehall-Coplay is how welcoming and supportive the staff and administration have been. From day one, I’ve felt like part of the team, and it’s clear that everyone is committed to working together for the success of our students. I’ve also been incredibly impressed by the students because of their energy, kindness, and eagerness to learn makes every day rewarding.

How many years have you worked at Whitehall-Coplay?

5 years

What are your favorite hobbies?

Dancing, crocheting, rollerskating

What do you love about the Whitehall-Coplay School District?

I love that we are one campus. It makes it seem like we are truly one community. It is great to see high school students volunteer to go to the elementary schools to read to students.

What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?

Don't take your education for granted. Slow down and take everything in.

How many years have you worked at Whitehall-Coplay?

2 years

What are your favorite hobbies?

Dancing, shopping, watching movies

What do you love about the Whitehall-Coplay School District?

I love the supportive community, good communication, and collaborative staff.

What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?

To be kind to others, always take time to yourself, be honest and respectful, take responsibility, never give up your dreams, and live with integrity

• Special Education Teacher [Steckel Elementary]
• Science-Biology Teacher [Whitehall High School]
• Certified School Nurse [Whitehall-Coplay Middle School]
• Nurse Assistant [Education Center]
• Life Skills Paraprofessional [Gockley Elementary School]
• Traffic Monitors [District Wide]
• Security Substitute
• Maintenance Substitute [District Wide]
• Nurse Substitute [District Wide]
• ESOL Paraprofessional [Whitehall-Coplay Middle School]
• MTSS Paraprofessional [Zephyr Elementary]
• General Paraprofessional [Whitehall High School]
• Traffic Monitors [District Wide]
• Substitute Security [District Wide]
• Substitute Teacher [District Wide]
• Substitute Paraprofessional [District Wide]
• Bus Driver [Transportation]
• Bus Aide Substitute [Transportation]
• Bus Mechanic [Transportation]
• Assistant Swimming Coach [Athletics]
• Assistant Track and Field Coach [Athletics]
• Assistant Girls Basketball Coach [Athletics]
• Seasonal Assistant to the Athletic Director [Athletics]

It's time to cheer on the Zephyrs! Get ready for an amazing 2025 athletic season with our All-Sports Passes!

An All-Sports Pass is the best way to support our Big Z and save money. It gets you into all regular-season home football, basketball, and wrestling events. Choose the pass that's right for you and your family:

• Student All-Sports Pass: Just $18 for our incredible students!
• Adult All-Sports Pass: Join the Zephyr fun for only $63!
• Family All-Sports Pass: For $157, two adults and two students from the same household get in on the action all year long! It's our best value!

Don't miss a minute of the maroon and gold action! Grab your passes today, and let's make this season our loudest yet! All tickets must be purchased online, and anyone aged 5 and under or 65 and over get in for free.

As we gear up for the 2025-2026 athletic schedule, we’re excited to enhance your game-day experience! Stay connected with our events through the new ScoreVision Fan App, seamlessly integrated with our Zephyr Turf, Football Stadium, and Main Gymnasium scoreboards. Whether you’re cheering from the stands or following along from home, the app ensures you don’t miss a moment.

Agenda

Operations/Transportation Committee Meeting Agenda

Finance Committee Meeting Agenda

Education/Student Activities Committee Meeting Agenda