Weekly Good News
October 19th - 23rd, 2026
Choir Tradition Builds Connections Across Grade Levels
On Friday, October 16th, Wayland Union Schools’ choir program celebrated its annual "No Girls Aloud" event, continuing a tradition that has brought students together for more than 20 years.
The event welcomed male singers in grades 6th – 12th for a morning of music, friendship, and fun. Middle school students sang alongside their high school peers, built connections across grade levels, and got a glimpse of what awaits them in the high school choir program.
Of course, no "No Girls Aloud" gathering would be complete without pizza!
Beyond the music and shared meal, this tradition helps younger singers feel connected to the larger choir community. Each year, it offers students a chance to build friendships, grow in confidence, and celebrate the joy of singing together.
WIPTO Celebrates Raise Craze Success
WIPTO recently wrapped up its annual Raise Craze fundraiser, raising approximately $2,000 after expenses and prizes! Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this year’s fundraiser a success.
Congratulations to this year’s winners:
Pine Street Elementary: Megan VanderSilk and Marcella Commans
Wayland Union Middle School: Hudson Hadaway, Liam Curtis, and Swayzee Ager
WIPTO appreciates our school community’s continued support!
Middle School Winners
Pine Street Elementary Winners
improv.anonymous Opens the Season with Laughs
improv.anonymous kicked off its first show of the year at 4one2, where “Helping Hands” proved to be a crowd favorite!
Keep the laughter going by joining the group for its next show on November 23rd at the Dorr Library!
Baker Families Celebrate Literacy Together
Baker Elementary welcomed families for a successful Family Literacy Night on Wednesday, October 21st!
Families explored three stations: playing literacy games, creating a foldable how-to book while decorating, and enjoying, a pumpkin cookie, and learning tips for reading aloud.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for an evening of reading, creativity, and family fun!
Second Graders Design with Birds in Mind
Students in Mrs. Nykerk’s second grade class explored a question this week: “How could you get more birds to visit a bird feeder?”
Through a Mystery Science lesson, students investigated how birds’ food preferences influence which feeders they visit. They then put their learning into practice by designing a feeder to attract a finch, cardinal, blue jay, or woodpecker.
After sketching their ideas, students used available materials to build prototypes, combining science, creativity, and problem-solving!
Putting the Pieces Together
In Mrs. Koopman’s classroom at Wayland Union High School, students enjoy working on puzzles during Pride time after completing their assignments.
This activity gives students a chance to unwind, strengthen problem-solving skills, and connect with classmates while reinforcing responsibility and the importance of finishing their work.
Wildcat Dance Theatre Shines at Fall Preview Concert
Wildcat Dance Theatre took the stage Thursday night for a Fall Preview Concert showcasing student creativity and talent. The program featured student-choreographed hip-hop, lyrical, and contemporary dance numbers.
Mrs. Hill’s advanced class closed the evening with an emotional and powerful piece choreographed by Mrs. Hill. The class will also perform the piece at the Oakland Dance Festival for adjudication.
Congratulations to our dancers on a memorable evening of artistry and expression!
Wildcats Rise Early for Football Frenzy
Wildcat pride was on full display before sunrise on Friday, October 23rd, as Wayland Union High School hosted WOOD TV8’s final Football Frenzy stop of the season!
Students and staff gathered at the football stadium at 6am for live segments highlighting their Family. Friends. Heroes. fundraiser, food drive efforts, and artistic talents.
Our marching band, cheerleaders, and student body brought the energy, making the early morning one to remember. Thank you to WOOD TV8 for giving our Wildcats the opportunity to share their talents, school spirit, and community impact!
Upcoming Events
- Friday, October 23rd, Varsity Cross County, 4pm, Away at US 131 Motorsports Park
- Friday, October 23rd, Varsity Football, 7pm, Home
- Monday, October 26th, BOE Facilities Committee Meeting, 5pm, Administration Office
- Monday, October 26th, BOE Work Session, 6pm, Administration Office
- Tuesday, October 27th, Boys Varsity Soccer, TBA, Away at Plainwell
- Tuesday, October 27th, Girls Varsity Swim & Dive, 6pm, Away at Hamilton
- Tuesday, October 27th, WUMS 7th and 8th Band Concert, 7pm, Fine Arts Center
- Wednesday, October 28th, Freshman Volleyball, 4:30pm, Home
- Wednesday, October 28th, JV Volleyball, 5:30pm, Home
- Wednesday, October 28th, Varsity Volleyball, 6:30pm, Home
- Wednesday, October 28th, WUS 7th-12th Orchestra Concert, 6:30pm, Fine Arts Center
- Thursday, October 29th, Boys Varsity Soccer, TBA, Away at Plainwell
- Thursday, October 29th, Hallowed Halls, 5pm-7pm, High School