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.

During the 2025-26 school year, elementary student-athletes across Michigan City Area Schools

received a new look after students shared that they wanted upgraded uniforms to better represent their schools. Over 580 elementary school students participate in their grade-level athletics.

To help make that request a reality, the Michigan City Athletics Department reached out to local businesses and organizations to support elementary athletics. Eight community sponsors stepped forward along with a $5,000 grant from the Unity Foundation of La Porte County. Together, that support helped provide new uniform tops and matching shorts for athletic teams at all eight MCAS elementary schools.

Community sponsors included Unity Foundation, Kohler Roofing, Flanigan Tire, Carlson’s, Arnett Construction & Roofing, Exchange Club of Michigan City, MC Maddwrappers, the Michigan City Booster Club, and Michigan City Pop Warner.

For Knapp Elementary students Gianna and Taylor, who play volleyball and basketball together, the change has made representing their school more meaningful.

“This year, elementary teams got new uniforms for every sport. We really like the colors and the numbers on the back! Before, we played in T-shirts with our school name, but this represents us better. Sports are really important because they get you out of the house, teach you new skills, and help you make friends,” said Gianna and Taylor.

MCAS currently offers elementary students opportunities to participate in soccer, volleyball, and basketball.

The new uniforms are more than an update to what students wear. They are also an example of student feedback being put into action through the MCAS Strategic Plan.

Student voice has been an important part of the strategic planning process. Students are regularly given opportunities to share what is working, what could be improved, and what would make their school experience better. Better uniforms for elementary athletics were among the ideas students shared, and MCAS responded.

The project became part of the work of the Strategic Plan's Culture and Environment Pillar. The goal of this pillar is to ensure that MCAS is a community that all members appreciate, celebrate, and are proud to be a part of.

“These uniforms give our students an opportunity to proudly represent their individual schools while also building a connection to Michigan City Area Schools as a whole,” said City-Wide Athletic Director Ben Bachmann. “From our youngest student-athletes through high school, We Are MC!”

Because the uniforms are school sets, they will remain at each building for future student-athletes. Schools were also provided with instructions for properly washing and drying the uniforms to help extend their use. Pine Elementary received a new washer and dryer combination to properly care for its uniforms, while the district's other elementary schools already had working facilities available for uniform care and maintenance.

As MCAS enters the 2026-27 school year, the district is beginning year four of its Strategic Plan. The new elementary uniforms are one example of the progress being made through the plan's pillar teams and, more importantly, an example of what can happen when students have a voice in their school experience.

This summer, MCAS mailed its Connections newsletter to Michigan City residents, highlighting progress and updates from each of the Strategic Plan pillars. Funding for the printing and mailing of Connections was made possible in part by a grant from the Michigan City Chamber. Additional information and updates on the Strategic Plan are available at Educatemc.net/strategic-plan.

“We are proud of the progress we have made through our Strategic Plan and, more importantly, that our students can see and experience that progress in their schools,” said Superintendent Dr. Wendel McCollum. “As we enter year four of this work, we remain focused on listening to our students and continue to move MCAS and our community forward.”

As MCAS looks ahead, maintaining opportunities such as elementary athletics is also part of a broader financial conversation taking place across the district.

Major changes to Indiana's school funding landscape, property tax caps, declining enrollment, and rising costs continue to place pressure on the district's operating budget. MCAS has already made approximately $3 million in ongoing reductions, but additional reductions will be necessary without a new source of revenue.

On November 3, 2026, an Operating Referendum for Michigan City Area Schools will appear on the ballot. If approved, the referendum would provide additional local funding to support student programs and services, transportation, staffing, school safety, and other essential day-to-day operations.

If the referendum is not approved, MCAS will need to make additional budget reductions. Those reductions would include transportation as well as elementary athletics and extracurricular activities.

Community members are encouraged to learn more about the district's financial challenges, what the Operating Referendum would support, and the reductions that would be necessary if it is not approved at Educatemc.net/MCAS.

Press play on the video below to listen to an update from the Superintendent.

Can’t attend? Join us at our final Community Meeting on Thursday, October 22, at 6:00 PM at Krueger Middle School.

Lake Hills Elementary third grade teacher Mrs. Cindy LoGreco has been named a top 10 finalist for the 2027 Indiana Teacher of the Year.

Mrs. LoGreco shared that this is one of the greatest honors of her career and feels “incredibly humbled to be recognized for doing something that [she has] loved for so many years: teaching and making a difference in the lives of children.”

Mrs. LoGreco has served Michigan City Area Schools since 1995, joining the district as a Special Education teacher at Eastport Elementary until the school’s closing. She continued teaching at Mullen Elementary for two years before moving into general primary education. She eventually transitioned to Lake Hills Elementary, where she has spent most of her career teaching third grade. She credits the wide range of experience provided by MCAS with playing a crucial role in shaping her into the educator she is.

“Throughout my time working with Cindy, I have seen firsthand her unwavering commitment to students and the positive impact she has on our school community,” said Superintendent Dr. Wendel McCollum in his letter of support. “She creates a classroom where every student feels safe, challenged, and valued while building the confidence and skills needed for lifelong success.”

Mrs. LoGreco sees this recognition as more than an individual achievement. It is a way to highlight the impact and importance of MCAS and its teachers, referring to the honor as “OUR award,” crediting Michigan City Area Schools for providing her with mentors, growth opportunities, and support from colleagues.

“I have had the privilege of working alongside so many of these amazing educators throughout my career, and they have helped shape the teacher I am today,” she said. “This recognition belongs to the countless teachers who walk into their classrooms every day, give everything they have to their students, and may never receive an award or public recognition.”

At the heart of her work, Mrs. LoGreco believes every student deserves someone to believe in them before they believe in themselves, and her colleagues make this happen every day.

“Teaching is not about recognition. It is about relationships, believing in children, and helping them discover what they are capable of becoming,” she said. “[Students] need someone who will encourage them, challenge them, celebrate them, and never give up on them. Being that person for a child is one of the greatest responsibilities and privileges of being an educator.”

Guided by that belief, Mrs. LoGreco hopes to create a classroom of lifelong learners this year “who are curious, confident, and excited about learning.” She hopes that they finish the year knowing they can accomplish anything they put their minds to and that they have a support system behind them no matter what.

Mrs. LoGreco also intends to remain a strong support for new teachers, encouraging them to push through challenging days and recognize the lasting impact they have on their students.

“Every conversation, every word of encouragement, and every moment they spend believing in a child can have an impact that lasts a lifetime.”

Mrs. Cindy LoGreco feels endlessly grateful for this honor and to her colleagues and family who have supported her throughout her time in education. To her, it is more than a job.

“It has been a calling and a privilege,” she shared. “Even after all these years, I still walk into my classroom excited about the possibility of making a difference in a child’s life.”

She emphasized that the recognition reflects not only her own career, but also the many people who have been part of it.

“This recognition is a celebration of the students who inspire me, the educators who have walked beside me, the families who have trusted me, my own family, who has always supported me, and the MCAS community I am so proud to call home.”

To learn more about the Indiana Teacher of the Year program, visit in.gov/doe/educators/teacher-of-the-year.

Our first Pack Pride spotlight for the 2026-27 school year goes to Dave Lohraff. Serving as mechanic foreman for Michigan City Area Schools Transportation, Lohraff plays a key role in district operations by leading the team responsible for keeping buses operating efficiently and safely.

“He is a solutionist to his core and has a commendable work ethic that is only matched by his personal standards of excellence,” said Director of Transportation Dion Campbell. “When you come in contact with David, you can feel the authenticity of his heart and compassion to ensure that our vehicles maintain a high standard of safety. He is a model employee who is dependable and consistent.”

Mr. Lohraff has worked as a mechanic for 38 years, including the past 17 with MCAS. While he enjoys the challenges of the job and the satisfaction of seeing things run smoothly, it is the people who have made his time with the district especially meaningful.

“There are so many things I enjoy about working at MCAS,” Mr. Lohraff said. “I like my ‘extended family.’ The people who make up our whole department are awesome, as are so many others from different departments whom I’ve had the pleasure of working with.”

Mr. Lohraff truly values his team and understands the huge impact they have on students and staff alike.

“It is a great feeling knowing that I am part of this transportation team. We try to support our drivers, monitors, and building staff by providing the repairs, maintenance, and supplies that are needed.”

Mr. Lohraff approaches each day with consideration and care, bringing the same thoughtful approach to leading his team that he brings to maintaining the district’s vehicles. The strong relationships he has built across the building reflect this effort.

“Mr. Lohraff is beloved among the staff,” said Campbell. “I am struck by his character and integrity. Dave embodies the 7 Habits of Character in a manner that is rarely seen.”

To Mr. Lohraff, it’s simply part of the job.

“I always try to lead by example and promote treating other people how you would like to be treated. I believe that is something that makes a great difference in a positive way.”

He credits much of his work ethic to his upbringing, stating, “I believe a good share of credit needs to be given to my parents and teachers. My parents taught me responsibility, accountability, and to always try your best. I enjoy helping others, so being able to do that on a daily basis is motivating as well.”

Mr. Lohraff cherishes the community of his team, and the value they have for their work.

“Seeing how they take ownership in their roles and responsibilities and always putting safety and our duties first. [I love] knowing that I am a part of that, and our success together as a well-functioning team makes me proud.”

That pride is shared by director Campbell, who recognizes the dedication required to keep the district moving each day.

“What he and his staff do on a regular basis to keep our buses and transportation vehicles running and in excellent condition is a true testament to his internal fortitude,” Campbell said.

Congratulations to Dave Lohraff, and thank you for helping keep MCAS moving safely forward!

To see all past Pack Pride winners, please visit educatemc.net/PackPride.

Michigan City High School Computer Science and Graphic Design teacher and Esports coach Mr. Melendez was recently awarded a $50,000 Mac Innovation Lab grant through the Howmet Aerospace Foundation.

Melendez’ proposed vision is “to create a dedicated innovation space that expands opportunities we can provide our students in graphic design, digital media, computer science, programming, and other creative technology areas” at MCHS. It can continue to grow alongside the school’s technological and digital pathways.

“This grant gives our students access to technology that can take them from simply learning concepts to actually creating,” Melendez said. “Whether a student is developing an application, designing graphics, editing photography and video, or building a portfolio for college or a future career, I want this lab to be a place where their ideas can become something real.”

He hopes this space will allow students to gain professional experience with industry-standard technology.

The grant was awarded to Michigan City Area Schools in August 2026, with a project completion date of November 30, 2027.

Michigan City Area Schools is adding a little friendly competition to the 2026-27 school year with the introduction of the Traveling Spirit Stick, a districtwide initiative designed to strengthen school pride, participation, and connection across MCAS.

The Traveling Spirit Stick supports the Culture and Environment pillar of the MCAS Strategic Plan, which focuses on creating positive, welcoming environments where students and staff feel connected to their schools and to the district as a whole. It also provides another opportunity to put The Wolfie Way into action by celebrating the values and behaviors that contribute to a strong school community.

Throughout the school year, MCAS buildings will have opportunities to earn the Traveling Spirit Stick through a variety of challenges. Each challenge will focus on a different area that contributes to a positive school culture, including attendance, school spirit, community involvement, participation, and living the Wolfie Way.

The winning school will display the Traveling Spirit Stick until the next challenge, when another building will have the opportunity to earn it.

The Spirit Stick has already made its first stop of the school year. Pine Elementary School earned the first Traveling Spirit Stick at the district's Welcome Back Staff Meeting by winning the Roller Coaster Challenge, a districtwide school spirit activity that brought staff from across MCAS together.

A special thank you goes to the Michigan City High School Cheer Team for helping lead the Roller Coaster Challenge and bringing their energy and school spirit to the Welcome Back event.

While the Traveling Spirit Stick adds some friendly competition throughout the year, its larger purpose is to strengthen connections across MCAS, recognize participation, and continue building a culture where students and staff take pride in their schools and in being part of the Pack.

Follow along throughout the school year as MCAS announces new challenges and the Traveling Spirit Stick makes its way from building to building.

Michigan City Area Schools uses WellCheq with students in grades 2-12 to strengthen student well-being and help every child feel seen, heard, and supported. This work directly supports the Educating the Whole Child pillar of the MCAS Strategic Plan, which recognizes that student success extends beyond academics and includes supporting the social and emotional needs of every student.

Through a quick check-in, students answer two simple questions about how they are feeling and how they are doing. The check-in takes approximately 30 seconds and gives staff timely information to recognize when a student may need encouragement, a conversation, or additional support. WellCheq also helps students build emotional awareness and become more comfortable communicating their needs.

By incorporating WellCheq into our school routines, MCAS can identify concerns earlier, strengthen relationships between students and staff, and connect students with the appropriate school-based resources. This tool is one more way we are working to educate and support the whole child while creating caring, responsive school communities. Learn more about the tool at WellCheq.com.

One City, One Pack

The Michigan City High School Football Team showcased its creativity and teamwork at the Michigan City Singing Sands Sand Sculpting Festival in July. The team participated in the festival’s Sand Sculpture Contest and took home a $1,500 prize for its winning creation. The experience was a great opportunity for our student-athletes to connect with the Michigan City community beyond the football field.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by the United Way of La Porte County's 14th annual “Fun” Raising Car Wash on August 27. Together, the Michigan City Police Department, Michigan City Fire Department, and Michigan City Area Schools raised more than $2,600 to support the United Way of La Porte County. Learn more about the United Way of LaPorte County by visiting their website at https://www.unitedwaylpc.org.

Congratulations to Barker Middle School (specifically the Barker Volleyball Team), our new Spirit Stick winner, for their outstanding participation in the United Way Car Wash! We had an incredible turnout with over 25 student-athletes present. A special shout-out also goes to the MCJROTC cadets and the other MCAS and Sodexo staff members who volunteered.

Big news for our Wolves! Michigan City Area Schools is proud to announce that we have been awarded a $20,000 grant from the Health Foundation of La Porte. This generous funding will support a new after-school food program for our MCHS student-athletes, helping ensure our students have the fuel they need to succeed on and off the field. A huge thank you to the Health Foundation of La Porte for their support of our students' health and wellness.

UPDATES FROM OUR ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

Learn more at GoMCWolves.com!

The MCHS Athletic Department has unveiled this year’s "Which one of our Student Athletes will you become?" poster. This initiative is designed to highlight the athletic extracurricular opportunities available at Michigan City while reinforcing the MCAS 7 Habits of Character. The goal is to inspire our students to embrace the "Student Athlete" concept, develop essential life skills through sports, and set meaningful goals for the school year.

Want to keep up with Michigan City High School athletics? Visit the MCHS Athletics website (gomcwolves.com) 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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Athletic passes are available for purchase in the Athletic Department Office at the high school or at home athletic events. The cost is $55 for adults, $35 for students. This year, an annual pass is also available for $125. GO WOLVES!

Interested in getting involved? We are always looking for volunteers who are ready to support our future leaders. Whether you are reading with students, helping in the library, or mentoring through programs like Safe Harbor, your time and talents have a lasting impact.

Getting started is simple. Visit our Visitors & Volunteers page to download the form and get started. With a completed background check, you’ll be approved to volunteer for three years! Join us in making a difference. Get started today and help empower students across MCAS.

The "Find Your Inspiration" Career Fair is designed to guide MCAS 8th, 9th, and 10th graders as they begin navigating their post secondary and career paths. Local businesses and colleges are invited to host interactive booths to showcase career and educational opportunities that will not only help shape the next generation's future but also the future of our local community.

If businesses or colleges are interested in participating please RSVP via the link https://forms.gle/tpSMfUKUNfeU9DP66 or email Michelle Gregory m.gregory@mcas.k12.in.us.

Level 2: Internships/Career Exploration Internship

• What: Hands-on experience in real or simulated workplaces
• Examples: Career internships, health occupations explorations, clinicals/practicums
• Role for Business: Host a student for at least 75 hours, with training and feedback; Hours can be flexible.

Level 3: Youth Apprenticeships/Pre-Apprenticeships

• What: Paid structured programs with technical instruction
• Examples: Industry credentials, college credit pathways
• Role for Business: Provide 650+ hours over two years, mentor students, support credentialing

For further information, contact MCAS K-12 Future Readiness Specialist Michelle Gregory at m.gregory@mcas.k12.in.us or 219-873-2000, 8329.

Last school year partnerships with local businesses included South Shore Public Relations, Reins of Life, Sera Group, LaPorte County Public Library, Regal Rexnord, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group, Soul Food Bistro, Hitachi, Novak Law, The Brew Box, and MCAS Communications Department.

Michigan City Area Schools is proud to recognize our senior residents with complimentary admission to many MCAS home athletic and performing arts events.

If you are 60 or older and live within the MCAS district boundaries, you can receive your own Gold Card and enjoy regular-season athletic events, concerts, plays, and more.

Pick yours up today at the MCAS Administration Building (408 S. Carroll Ave.)

To learn more, view eligibility requirements, and see terms and conditions, click the button below.

Michigan City Area Schools is proud of the generations of families who call MCAS home. If you are an MCAS alumnus or a graduate of Elston or Rogers, we invite you to share your story to inspire our future Wolves.

Selected stories may be highlighted in upcoming district communications as we celebrate the pride and tradition of MCAS.

Visit the MCAS Parent Resource Page, your one-stop destination for helpful links, calendars, Parent Portal access, transportation information, meal resources, and more. Everything families need is just a click away at EducateMC.net/Resources/Parents.

Thanks to a generous donation from the Michigan City Chamber, postage costs were covered to share this update with all Michigan City residents.

As we wrapped up Year 3 of Michigan City Area Schools’ Strategic Plan, we were excited to share our Connections Newsletter, which was mailed to all Michigan City residents earlier this summer. The newsletter highlighted the progress made across our strategic pillars. From classroom success to new initiatives and community partnerships, the impact of this work was evident across our schools. We invited our community to take a closer look at the progress and stay connected as we continue moving forward together.

At Michigan City Area Schools, we are more than a district… we are One City. One Pack. Watch the video above to learn more!