Zephyr Zipline

Kindergarten Registration for the 26-27 school year is NOW OPEN! Children must be 5 before September 1, 2026.

For more information, visit the Gockley Elementary website or contact Michelle Khouri at khourim@whitehallcoplay.org or by calling 610-439-1431 ext. 1014

Already registered your child? Kindergarten Assessment Days for Registered Students are June 9th and 10th.

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.

This March, we are thrilled to highlight our 8th grade students for embodying the Profile of a Zephyr trait of Critical Thinking. During their recent trip to Blue Mountain Resort, students swapped the classroom for the slopes, engaging in an environment where quick analysis and informed decision making were essential. From the moment they arrived, Zephyrs had to navigate the logistics of rentals, ticketing, and formal lessons by their assigned instructor.

Once on the mountain, the true application of practical knowledge began. Skiers and snowboarders alike had to constantly evaluate the terrain, and adjust their center of gravity. Whether it was a skier executing a "pizza" wedge or a snowboarder shifting weight to initiate a turn, students were problem solving all day to maintain balance and safety. We are incredibly proud of our 8th graders for taking these lessons and applying them in a dynamic, real world setting. Their ability to think critically under pressure proves that being a Zephyr means more than just knowing the right answer, it means having the confidence to navigate something new!

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.

Gockley Elementary celebrated the 100th Day of School on Wednesday, February 11th. This day was full of fun and focused on many math activities. Kindergarten and First Grade students completed counting and place value centers. Teachers made this day extra special with unique decorations and classroom themes. We were treated to seeing many students wearing creative 100 Day shirts that they crafted at home with their families. In other classrooms, students and teachers dressed like they were 100 years old! It was an exceptional day to celebrate all of the learning and growing our students have done this year so far!

On Friday, February 27th, Whitehall High School's Science Olympiad team competed in their EPC Science Olympiad tournament at Northampton Community College Monroe Campus. Whitehall faced eleven teams in various STEM events. Many members earned medals and overall earned 1st Place as a team. This is the first time ever Whitehall has earned the title of Science Olympiad EPC champions! Congratulations to the hard work and dedication of the Whitehall Science Olympiad team!

Students from Whitehall-Coplay Middle School and Whitehall High School competed against other local districts at the Regional PA Media & Design Competition on Thursday, March 5th. The PA Media and Design Competition is an annual event that highlights Pennsylvania students’ application skills, creativity and knowledge. Students are able to unleash their creativity, learn how to convey information more dynamically, and enhance the learning process. The students submitted projects in one of six categories: 3D Design, Animation, Digital Movie, Logo and Graphic Design, Programming, and Web Page Design. Students who place first in their category move on to attend the state competition at Elizabethtown College in May.

This year, Whitehall is proud to recognize a number of medalists. Their hardwork and dedication to their projects was noticed by the judges and is celebrated by the rest of the Zephyr Community. Congratulations!

The Whitehall High School Theatre Department has announced the dates for the performance of their Spring musical performance, The Wedding Singer: The Musical Comedy. Performances will run from Thursday, March 26 to Sunday, March 29. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for students, and $8 for seniors.

Tickets can be purchased, in person, at the WHS Box Office from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on the following dates:

• 3/7
• 3/14
• 3/21

You can also purchase tickets online using the link below.

On February 10, 2026, the Whitehall-Coplay School District hosted its annual "Bands in the Round" concert, bringing together hundreds of instrumentalists from elementary through high school for a spectacular night of music. The program showcased the incredible growth of our musicians, starting with the Zephyr Beginner Band’s debut performance of "Hot Cross Buns" and culminating in the High School Band’s sophisticated rendition of "Critical Mass" Directors Ms. Madison Apple, Mr. Justin Tanzos, and Mr. Michael Tanzos led the students through a diverse repertoire, including works by Robert W. Smith and John Philip Sousa. We are immensely proud of our students' dedication, especially our regional and county honors band representatives, whose hard work continues to put our musical programs on equal footing with our district’s great athletic and academic traditions.

The 2026 Zephyr Nation Prom Fashion Show was a wonderful celebration of student confidence, school spirit, and community partnership. Students spent several weeks preparing to model the latest prom fashions, featuring tuxedos from CE Roth Formal Wear and gowns from Bridals by Sandra. The event not only showcased current prom trends, but also highlighted the strong connection between Whitehall High School and local businesses. We are grateful to our students, staff, families, and community partners who helped make this special night a success.

Whitehall-Coplay School District's Family Night is an annual signature event designed to celebrate the school community along with the Whitehall and Coplay communities. The event brings together students, parents, educators, and community partners for a FREE evening of activities, food, community interaction, raffle and relationship building.

Mark your calendars and join us!

Date: Thursday, April 9, 2026

Time: 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Place: Whitehall High School

Events: Free activities, Meet Big Z, Give Aways, Raffles, Student Performances, and Zephyr Apparel Sale

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?

She was a really cool English teacher, as well as making class fun. She was just super cool.

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

She still remembers me even though I don't have her class.

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

She makes the lessons descriptive, which allows me to have a clearer understanding of the subject. She allowed me to have a peaceful space, which allowed me to work more efficiently on my own.

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

Her consideration. Her suggestions and her acceptance to constructive criticism for each of the chapters.

WCSD has begun the process of using SchoolMessenger as our new mass communication platform. In order to receive text message notifications you MUST OPT IN to the service. Don't miss important updates. Text "Y" or "YES" to 67587 to OPT IN TODAY!

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 -February

• Breakfast
• Lunch

Zephyr - February

• Breakfast
• Lunch

MS - February

• Breakfast
• Lunch

HS - February

• Breakfast
• Lunch

March

2 Professional Development Day (No School for Students)

20 No School for Students

April

1 Early Dismissal for Professional Development (Lunches will be served)

2-6 Spring Break (Schools Closed)

May

20 Early Dismissal for Professional Development (Lunches will be served)

25 Memorial Day (Schools Closed)

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
Everything we do comes from the heart!

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

It is an honor to continue my journey with the Whitehall-Coplay School District as Director of Educational Operations. Having served as the Principal of Zephyr Elementary for the last four years and as an Assistant Principal at Whitehall High School for eight years prior, I have a deep understanding of how our district’s daily operations directly impact the quality of education in the classroom. My career in education actually began in the classroom, where I spent 2 years as a special education teacher in Nanakuli, Hawaii, and 7 years as a special education teacher at Wilson Area High School. These foundational years as a teacher and coach taught me the value of teamwork and the importance of creating a supportive environment where every student can reach their fullest potential.

My top priority in this new role is to ensure operational efficiency and safety in the areas of Transportation, Buildings and Grounds, and District Safety. I am committed to creating a culture focused on clear performance standards and proactive maintenance so that every facility is a safe and optimal environment for our students and staff. I believe I bring a unique "builder-administrator" perspective to this position. Beyond my 12 years of leadership in our schools, I spent 13 years operating my own general contracting business. I have been involved in nearly every aspect of the building process, from pouring foundations and framing to installing HVAC units and commercial flooring. This hands-on, troubleshooting skillset allows me to help diagnose structural and mechanical issues, manage contractors effectively, and implement cost-saving solutions that keep our budget and our facilities working at peak efficiency.

Safety remains at the forefront of my vision for the district. During my time in the district, I have served as a member of the internal safety team and earned certifications as a trainer for CPTED, ALICE, and TACT-2. I look forward to leveraging this expertise to coordinate our security technology and emergency readiness across the entire district.

On a personal note, I am a native of the Lehigh Valley and currently reside in Bethlehem Township with my wife and our three sons, Keanu, Reef, and Waimea. When I am not in the district, you will likely find me on a wrestling mat or a football field supporting my sons' athletic endeavors, or spending time with our 3 dogs, Moki, Tito, and Tyson. I value the power of setting goals and striving for constant daily improvement, and I am excited to partner with our staff and families to help our district shine.

Most people in the district know me as "P-NUTS," a nickname I’ve carried through my 30-year career at Whitehall-Coplay. I still vividly remember my first day on the job: January 9, 1996. I spent 12 straight hours shoveling snow during the infamous Blizzard of ’96—quite the introduction to the district!

Before stepping into my current leadership role, I served as the District’s Electrician for 19 years. That time gave me an unparalleled understanding of our campus infrastructure. Since July 2015, I have applied that expertise as the Assistant Supervisor of Buildings & Grounds, where I ensure the safety and efficiency of all our facility interiors and exteriors.

I am a proud 1985 graduate of Whitehall High School, where I played football and wrestled. My work ethic was built on the foundation laid by my parents:

• My Father, Francis E.: I learned the construction trades working alongside him in our family electrical and key shop businesses during and after high school.

• My Mother, Carol: She instilled in me the essential character traits I’ve leaned on for a successful life.

Before joining the district full-time, I spent five years at Twin County Cable Co. and continued working in our family businesses.

My dedication to service extends well beyond the school gates. I have been a volunteer firefighter for the Whitehall Township Fire Department for over four decades, currently serving as Deputy Fire Chief and lead Fire Investigator. I also spent many years on the sidelines as a coach, leading nine and ten-year-olds at the Hokey Athletic Association for 16 years before serving as an assistant coach for the Whitehall-Coplay Middle School team for eight years.

I have been married to my wife, Terri, since 1998, and I’m the proud father of two sons, Francis J. Jr. and Kyle. When I'm not working, you can usually find me at a youth, high school, or college football game, or cheering on the Phillies. I cherish time spent with my family—whether we’re visiting my in-laws in Kentucky or I'm just hanging out with my best friend, our family dog, Smokey.

My name is Kyle Kremposky and I am stepping into the new role as Supervisor of Transportation Services for Whitehall-Coplay School District. I attended Northern Lehigh and LCTI where I found my calling in the automotive field. After high school, I went on to receive my associates degree in business management in automotive technology in 2011 from WyoTech. Once graduated, I worked in a local garage in the area as well as in my own garage until a bus mechanic position opened at Whitehall in 2012. Working my way to becoming a Master ASE Certified Technician, I left Whitehall for three years to teach diesel technology at LCTI. I enjoyed working with the kids but after my family grew (twins!), I decided to return to Whitehall and take over as the Shop Foreman. While in the position I also aided in re-structuring the bus routes for better efficiency and more fluidity throughout the district.

Outside of work, I enjoy hunting, fishing, camping, and spending time with my family. I have a beautiful wife and three kids; two girls and one boy. We also have two German Shorthair pointers that are better counter surfers than hunters. Recently, I got the opportunity to go on an adventure to Kodiak Island in Alaska. I'm hoping it is not just a once in a lifetime opportunity; my gear is already packed! My family enjoys camping in upstate New York in the Adirondack region. We spend our days fishing and swimming in the lakes. When not at home working in the garage, I assist my daughter’s softball team where I learned the resilience of being patient.

I have done just about every job imaginable within the bus garage. I worked diligently to keep the fleet safe and in turn, keep the kids that we transport safe. I know these buses like the back of my hand. I plan on bringing that knowledge to this new role and make it better than what it was. Part of this job is learning to think way outside the box and in a critical manner; just like diagnosing a bus repair. I am excited to take the next step in my tenure with Whitehall-Coplay School District.

Sandeep Yadav, Bus Driver, Whitehall-Coplay School District

Deborah Maustellar, Cafeteria Monitor, Zephyr Elementary School

How many years have you worked in education?

This is my first year teaching at Whitehall.

What are your favorite hobbies?

I like to watch Philly sports (Go Birds!), take care of my house plants, and drive my Jeep with the top off in nice weather.

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

I love how supportive the staff and administration are. Since I am new to the district, I have found staff from all buildings to be extremely helpful when any questions or issues arrive. The staff has been welcoming and its nice that people have gone out of their way to introduce themselves to me and check in on me.

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

When you try to be like everyone else, you end up with friends who don't actually know you. When you are just yourself, you find the people who truly belong in your life.

How many years have you worked at Whitehall-Coplay?

5 years

What are your favorite hobbies?

Attending classes at Orangetheory Fitness, spending time with Friends and Family, going to the Beach

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

I love the close knit community of Whitehall. It is unique that all of our buildings are on one campus. I have met some of my closest friends through Whitehall especially the Zephyr ES Team!

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

Your mom is always right!

• Paraprofessional [Whitehall High School]
• Security Personnel [Whitehall High School]
• Substitute Maintenance [District Wide]
• Substitute Teacher [District Wide]
• Substitute Paraprofessional [District Wide]
• Cafe Monitor [Gockley Elementary]
• Non-CDL Van/Bus Driver [Transportation]
• Bus Driver [Transportation]
• Bus Aide Substitute [Transportation]
• Assistant Track and Field Coach [Athletics]

The mission of the Zephyr Pride Foundation is to provide academic, artistic, and athletic scholarship and grant opportunities to students and staff who exemplify qualities in personal excellence, education, leadership, and dedication to their school and community.

The Zephyr Pride Foundation annually awards scholarships to support graduating seniors from Whitehall High School. This year the Foundation is proud to award $6,000 in scholarships in the areas of Academics, Arts, and Athletics. Students apply for the scholarships and the scholarships are awarded based on an application process. It is just one of the ways that the Zephyr Pride Foundation gives back to the Whitehall-Coplay School District.

Looking for an update on what's going on with our Zephyr Athletic teams? Then you've come to the right place! Take a look at all of the incredible things our athletes are accomplishing.

Wrestling

District Wrestling

Two weekends ago was District Wrestling, and if you’re unfamiliar, Lehigh Valley District 11 Wrestling is some of the most competitive wrestling in the country. Every Whitehall Zephyr wrestled higher than their original seed, which was the ultimate goal going into the weekend. Coach Cunningham - “We prepared for weeks, went through the process, put in the hard work, and that's all the counts.” Whitehall finished the weekend with five wrestlers on the podium at Districts.

James Hopkins 4th

Mason Hopkins 5th

Kade Pascoe 5th

Dionte Wheeler 6th

Willmont Kai 2nd

Northeast Regionals

Last weekend four Zephyrs went into Regionals, and two came out. Those two being Willmont Kai who is the returning State Champion, and Mason Hopkins who is the first freshman to make it to states in a very long time.

Willmont Kai 2nd

Mason Hopkins 5th

State Competition

This weekend the two Whitehall wrestlers will make their way to the State Tournament in Hershey Pa. As we approach the final days, I think it’s important to highlight a popular quote among our wrestlers at Whitehall. A quote frequently said by Coach Cunningham who was recently named Coach of the Year. “OWN THE THIRD” This motto is in reference to a wrestling match being three periods long. The third period being the last, most tiresome, important deciding period of them all. It’s the third period where practice, preparation and mental toughness come together. Our wrestlers put in the work, and the stage is set. Own the Third. #zephyrtough

Boys Basketball

It’s been an uphill battle all season for the Zephyrs who began the season with 5 straight losses but we are still standing! Our Districts journey started last weekend against Pocono Mountain West who was seeded #2 with Whitehall the #7 Team. The last 3 out of 4 times we’ve faced PMW we’ve lost. Our team came out strong right away and didn’t back down as the underdog, and dominated the whole game BEATING the #2 team, and ending their season early with a massive upset that shook up the District 11 Playoffs. Excellent game from Senior Team Captain Sudge Hoderewski, who scored 25 pts to take us to the Semi - Finals.

The Semi-Final game was against Liberty last Wednesday which was a hard fought back and forth game. Whitehall started with a 10 pt lead, and held that lead for 3 straight quarters. In the 4th quarter things started to go south, we got into some foul trouble and also Senior Cole Richards suffered a season ending injury while trying to make a big play under the basket. The Zephyrs lost a tough, well fought game, but they weren’t done for the week.

On Saturday the team needed to rally and win for 3rd place in Districts against the Pocono Mountain East Cardinals. Right before warm-ups started, the team emerged from their locker room all wearing athletic headbands as a tribute to their senior teammate and friend Cole Richards who was unable to join them on the court. This was a special moment for every Whitehall fan in attendance including Cole himself. The game was a very physical, hard fought game. We took a 14 pt lead, which PME started to cut down, but we were able to hold them off by 8 points and secure a win. Great defense and making our free throw shots was the deciding factor. That win placed our Zephyrs 3rd in District XI this year.

This weekend is the 1st Round of State Playoffs for Boys Basketball which is against Methacton High School. We lost to them years ago in the state tournament, they are ranked 2nd in their division, and have two athletes that are on the first team all division team. It should be an exciting match up, good luck to our boys this weekend.

Swimming

Both our Boys and Girls teams won TWICE as many meets this year compared to last year. What an amazing achievement by new Head Coach Emma Billings.

Districts

Kendall Bashore, Kyra Giedl and Greta Obrein did great in their individual events at districts. Kyra swam the 50 and 100 freestyle. Greta swam 100 back and 200 IM. Both dropped time. All relay teams (boys and girls) performed amazing with BIG time drops. Coach Billings - “All the hard work the kids put in this season really showed with their performances at districts”

Girls medley:

Ba- Zoe Kreiner

Br- Jenna Giedl

Fl- Ryann Giedl

Fr- Bella Molina

Girls 200 & 400 free:

Kyra Giedl

Ryann Giedl

Greta Obrien

Kendall Bashore

Boys medley:

Bk- Cory Sommers

Br- Anthony Bloom

Fl- Griffin Werner

Fr- Sebastian Zaiter

Boys 200 & 400 free:

Griffin Werner

Jaz Arvelo

Cory Sommers

Sebastian Zaiter

Sophomore Kendall Bashore stole the show at Districts for the Zephyrs, medaling in two events! She came in 4th place for the 50 Freestyle, and 4th Place in the 100 Freestyle.

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

Special Board Meeting

Operations/Transportation Committee Meeting Agenda

Finance Committee Meeting Agenda

Education/Student Activities Committee Meeting Agenda