The Red Devil Pen

West Lafayette Community School Corporation continues to earn top recognition for academic excellence across multiple grade levels. In the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings, West Lafayette’s elementary, intermediate and junior high schools all earned distinction among the best in Indiana.

• West Lafayette Junior High earned a ranking of #9 in Indiana Middle Schools and was also named one of U.S. News Best Middle Schools, with an Overall Score of 98.34 out of 100. The recognition reflects strong academic performance, high achievement in math and reading, and a supportive learning environment for every student. Earlier this year, West Lafayette Jr./Sr. High School was recognized by U.S. News & World Report in its 2025 - 2026 Best U.S. High Schools rankings as one of the top-performing schools in Indiana and across the country. U.S. News ranks West Lafayette Jr./Sr. High School #295 nationally, #4 in Indiana, and #97 in STEM rankings nationally.

• West Lafayette Intermediate School was recognized by U.S. News & World Report as #12 in Indiana Middle Schools and also named one of U.S. News Best Middle Schools in America, highlighting its commitment to high academic standards and student growth. The school earned an Overall Score of 97.72 out of 100 and a Math Proficiency Rank of #10 (tie) statewide, reflecting the strong performance of students and staff who consistently go above and beyond in the classroom.

• West Lafayette Elementary School ranked #35 out of more than 1,700 elementary schools in Indiana, with an Overall Score of 96.46/100, recognizing excellence in teaching and learning at the foundational level.

Rankings are based on students’ proficiency in mathematics and reading as measured by state assessments, as well as how schools perform in the context of their socioeconomic demographics - honoring schools that succeed in educating all students.

These honors reflect the dedication of West Lafayette’s students, staff, and families - and the shared commitment to academic excellence, personal growth, and community connection that define our schools.

The West Lafayette Schools Education Foundation recently hosted a special dedication ceremony at the new West Lafayette Elementary School Nature Center, honoring the memory of Colin Kippenbrock - a beloved parent, volunteer, and lunchroom supervisor whose kindness and commitment continue to inspire the school community.

Thanks to memorial contributions from Colin’s family and friends, along with the generosity of local businesses and volunteers, a beautiful new outdoor classroom pavilion now stands within the Nature Center. The pavilion offers students a shaded space to learn, read, and connect with nature — a fitting tribute to Colin’s spirit of care, curiosity, and community.

The district extends heartfelt thanks to all who made this project possible, including KJG Architecture, Dan Adams of SiteWorx, Matt Dodds and Mike Dunkle of Dunkle Custom Build, Von Tobel Home Improvement Store, and Bill and Katie Price, as well as the Kippenbrock family for inspiring such a meaningful addition to our schools.

This new space will carry forward Colin’s legacy and continue to enrich the learning experiences of West Lafayette students for generations to come.

The West Lafayette Community School Corporation continues to gather input on potential uses for the former Happy Hollow Elementary School. A recent community survey brought in 239 responses from residents, parents, alumni, staff, and neighbors, offering ideas that are helping to guide in-person and virtual focus groups. These conversations are being facilitated in partnership with our Skybound Education consultant, Adam Jones, who is helping the district collect and interpret community feedback.

Many respondents want Happy Hollow to remain a space that benefits students and the broader community. The strongest themes included expanding STEM and robotics programs, creating preschool and before- and after-school care options, and offering art, music, and dance activities.

Survey participants also pointed to the outdoor pool, sledding hill, and nearby park as valuable assets for recreation and wellness. Some suggested additional uses, such as hosting alternative or virtual learning programs, or providing shared community spaces for classes and events.

More than 90% of respondents said they would be willing to pay for programming they value—showing strong community support for reinvestment in the site.

Once Mr. Jones completes the focus groups and analyzes the feedback, he will share a summary of findings, themes, and trends with the School Board. The district will then share those updates with the community.

Due to federal government shutdown, November SNAP (Food Stamp) benefits will not be distributed. During this time, our community is coming together to help make sure no one goes without.

Food Finders Food Bank has shared an updated list of local food pantries and meal sites across Tippecanoe County. These locations - operated by churches, schools, and community organizations - offer groceries and meals on various days throughout the week. You can also find a food bank near you here.

If you or someone you know could use a little extra support this month, please share this information - neighbors helping neighbors makes all the difference.

As the first nine weeks come to a close, teachers and students at West Side have truly found their stride. The early excitement of a new school year has settled into a steady rhythm of learning, growth, and connection. Classrooms are alive with energy - students are diving into new projects in technology and science, lively discussions in English and social studies, and creative culinary and FACS endeavors.

Academic teams have hit the ground running, already preparing for upcoming competitions that showcase their dedication, teamwork, and school spirit. The Art Club hosted its first-ever Student Art Show, shining a well-deserved spotlight on the incredible talent of our student artists.

The performing arts program has also kicked off its season with outstanding fall concerts.

And yes - be on the lookout for ducks! They’re part of a new junior high incentive program that’s sure to make a splash and bring smiles across campus.

Outside the classroom, fall sports wrapped up with some fantastic accomplishments. Congratulations to our cross country team for qualifying two runners for the state meet, and to both our volleyball and boys soccer teams for capturing sectional titles.

October marks the time of year when the energy in WLIS feels steady and strong. The excitement of a new school year has settled into rhythm. Classrooms are buzzing with focused learning, and both students and teachers have found their stride.

The first grading period has finished, and students are now diving deeper into curriculum materials that are less about review and more about building on the strong foundation they have already developed. Staff are using assessment tools such as IXL to best meet students’ individual needs. They are working collaboratively with colleagues to support all learners within the grade level community.

Students have built a strong classroom community, allowing them to treat each other like a family, supporting one another as they learn, grow, and celebrate successes together.

Teachers are showing their creativity through grants they have written and received, bringing new opportunities and resources to their classrooms. They continue to strive toward excellence through lessons that are engaging and build essential skills through critical thinking, collaborative work, and memorable learning experiences.

Students are showing growth, confidence, and a sense of belonging as they take ownership of their learning. As we move into the second half of the semester, we celebrate this balance of consistency and creativity. It’s what keeps our learning community thriving, and what ensures every child continues to move forward with purpose and momentum.

At West Lafayette Elementary, October marks a shift from the busy start-up phase to a steady rhythm of learning and growth. Classrooms are running smoothly, routines are strong, and students are confidently engaged in their work. Teachers are balancing consistency and creativity, introducing new projects and strategies that keep curiosity and collaboration alive. We have enjoyed many special guests from Purdue and the greater community who have supported such special projects and classes, and have gone out for some of their first field trips of the year.

Recent parent-teacher conferences provided valuable opportunities for teachers to share specific information about student progress and to strengthen the critical school-to-home connection that supports every child’s success. Other family engagement events, such as Family PE week, have helped to welcome families in to get a glimpse of the excitement that we see each day within our walls.

With routines established and relationships thriving, our school community is moving forward with purpose; continuing to grow, learn, and build momentum together.

Join us for December’s Virtual Lunch & Learn, featuring an overview of key technology topics shaping our schools. This session will highlight updates in computer science, diploma requirements, school device content filtering, and cybersecurity resources for families.

Parents are encouraged to take part in this session to stay connected and informed about how technology supports student learning.

Questions may be directed to Joe Tylenda, Engagement Coordinator, at tylendaj@wl.k12.in.us.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a growing part of how students learn, create, and problem-solve - both in and outside the classroom. The Indiana Learning Lab, supported by the Indiana Department of Education, offers free resources to help families and educators better understand this emerging area.

Through short webinars, articles, and interactive lessons, the Learning Lab highlights ways AI can support critical thinking, creativity, and responsible technology use. Topics include AI literacy, ethical use of digital tools, and preparing students for a world where these technologies are increasingly common.

Families are encouraged to explore these materials to gain insight into how schools are approaching AI and to continue meaningful conversations at home about digital learning and innovation. Visit inlearninglab.com and search “AI” to view available resources.

Our Food Service Department now has its very own Facebook page! Follow along for monthly menus, special events, and tasty updates straight from our kitchens - including menu highlights from Tom the Taste Bud Traveler! You’ll also get to know the newest members of our food service team and find information about current job openings. Stay connected — and see what’s cooking in our schools here!

WL Difference Makers is a quick and easy way for any one in our community show appreciation to our staff. Take the time to recognize a WL staff member today! Nomination Form

WLCSC also carries out a monthly staff-to-staff recognition program call Appreciation, Recognition & Thanks (ART). Thank you to the West Lafayette Schools Education Foundation's Community Partner, The Russell Company, for providing the gift cards for the monthly drawing winners.

Red Devil Pride, or RDP for short, is about our community coming together to celebrate the big moments and the daily life in our West Side Schools. We thank and appreciate all of YOU, our WL and WLCSC community members, who support our schools - from near and far, directly and indirectly - in countless ways. The investment and trust you put in our schools is the foundation for the work we do. The relationships we develop with one another as school staff, community members, students, and families are our greatest source of RDP.

The West Lafayette Schools Education Foundation hosted 43 guests at this year's retiree luncheon. Attendees enjoyed lunch at The Whittaker Inn, hearing updates from the Foundation and WLCSC superintendent, Dr. Shawn Greiner, and a BINGO-style game that took attendees down memory lane. This is the third time that the Foundation has hosted retirees and the group grows a bit each year. There are hundreds of years of service represented by those in attendance.

A very special thank you to Chase Newsom and Trent Johnson with MBNB Wealth Management Group/Merrill Lynch Wealth Management for sponsoring the luncheon. The Foundation is grateful to Merrill Lynch for supporting this event. School pride runs deep with this group!

We are eager to share the many sources of Red Devil Pride through the Red Devil Pen newsletter. We invite you to subscribe today to receive updates from WLCSC directly to your inbox. Email socialmedia@wl.k12.in.us to subscribe!