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.

As we return from Thanksgiving Break, I hope you all are feeling recharged and ready to take it to the Next Level. This is a special time of year for Michigan City Area Schools, filled with learning, celebration, and the spirit of giving that defines our community.

Our Strategic Plan continues to move forward, and I encourage you to visit our website to see the progress we’re making across all five pillars. From culture and communication to student opportunities and whole-child supports, our staff and students are working hard each day to move Michigan City Area Schools forward.

This month also kicks off our annual district-wide Food and Book Drive for the Salvation Army. With help from our Michigan City High School Student Council and National Honor Society, every building will be collecting nonperishable food items and new or gently used children’s books from December 1 through December 19.

And of course, the friendly competition is back! Each school will be trying to claim the Food Drive Trophy and bragging rights for bringing in the most donations. Can Springfield Elementary defend its title, or is another school ready to step up?

Our high school Student Council will be on-site at the Salvation Army of Michigan City for a community drive-through event on Saturday, December 20, from nine to noon, where they will sort donations collected from our schools and accept contributions. Please consider stopping by! It’s a fun way to show your Wolfie Way spirit and support families across our city.

With winter break around the corner, I am grateful for the collaboration, pride, and generosity that unite our One City, One Pack community. I look forward to a strong finish to 2025 and an inspiring month ahead for all of our students and staff.

Dr. Wendel McCollum
MCAS Superintendent

Did you graduate from Michigan City Area Schools or one of our former high schools such as Elston or Rogers? Do you now have a child, grandchild, or student of your own in MCAS? We want to hear from you!

As part of our mission to celebrate the diverse community of families, students, and staff who take pride in our schools, we are collecting stories that highlight the lasting connections within our district.

Take a moment to fill out our MCAS Legacy Form and share your connection by clicking the banner above or link below. Selected stories may be featured in upcoming district communications.

The MCAS PowerSchool app is currently operational, but we strongly encourage families and students to access PowerSchool through the Parent Portal, which is the platform MCAS actively maintains, supports, and updates. The Parent Portal provides the most accurate and reliable information.

Families can easily access the Parent Portal through the link on our MCAS website or through the MCAS district app. Using the portal ensures uninterrupted access to up-to-date attendance, grades, and other important information.

On November 13, Barker and Krueger students visited Michigan City High School for the Find Your Inspiration Career Fair: a hands-on event that helps students explore career paths, postsecondary options, and big future possibilities. They connected with representatives from more than 50 businesses, colleges, community partners, and even our LPCCTE programs. Students toured the building and also learned more about graduation pathways. Thank you to everyone who joined us, supported the event, or helped make this experience possible for our students! Because of you, they can truly take their future careers to the NEXT LEVEL.

On Tuesday, November 18, Little Wolves Early Learning Center presented to the Michigan City Area Schools Board of Trustees. Director Holly Martinez highlighted the exciting progress the program has made and what all Little Wolves has to offer. We even heard directly from some students what they like most about Little Wolves. Listen for yourself! (Click on the video below).

Watch the full school board meeting on our YouTube Channel.

Michigan City Area Schools hosted its second Community Conversation on Wednesday, November 19. District leaders, families, community members, and consultants from Fanning Howey and Skillman came together to discuss the future of K-8 programming in MCAS.

Participants received an update on the Michigan City High School Community Event Center project and reviewed grade configuration options for middle school level learning, including 5-8 and 6-8 models. Attendees also shared feedback, asked questions, and offered ideas to help guide planning for the years ahead.

These Community Conversations are part of an ongoing effort to listen to stakeholders and work together to support strong opportunities for MCAS students.

If you were unable to attend, you can watch the full session on our MCAS YouTube channel. We encourage families, staff, and community members to stay engaged and join us for future conversations.

Michigan City High School hosted its 8th-grade Future Wolves Night on Thursday, November 20. Families gathered in the MCHS Auditorium for an academic showcase that highlighted the school’s Early College, Honors College, Indiana College Core, and Next Level Programs of Study. Students and families also had the opportunity to meet MCHS counselors and administrators who shared insight into the many academic opportunities available.

The evening continued with the MCHS Basketball Blue and White Varsity Scrimmage, where eighth graders received free admission and enjoyed a first look at the excitement and wolfpack pride that awaits them in high school.

A video recap of the presentation is available for families who were unable to attend. We encourage families to watch to stay up to date.

MCHS will host another event for incoming ninth graders later this school year, known as the Wolfpack Roundup, where families will learn even more about clubs, extracurricular activities, and athletics.

More information will continue to be shared at EducateMC.net and on district and school social media pages.

Students in Mrs. Hamann’s STEM classes at Barker Middle School recently completed a hands-on 3D printing unit. Using the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) program Tinkercad, students designed and printed their own original holiday ornaments and keychains to take home.

Each ornament required students to combine five to ten (or more) different shapes in Tinkercad, challenging them to think creatively, problem-solve, and bring their ideas to life. Throughout the unit, students also learned how 3D printing is used across many industries and explored potential career paths in this growing field.

This project was a great example of STEM education in action where creativity, technology, and real-world learning came together.

Marsh Elementary School’s first graders had an exciting learning experience in November when they visited the planetarium for a hands-on exploration of the night sky. Students learned about constellations, planets, and the many wonders of our universe through meaningful discussions and thoughtful questions.

This experience supported the district’s Strategic Plan by fostering curiosity, expanding student voice, and providing meaningful opportunities for hands-on learning. The trip strengthened students’ understanding of science concepts while encouraging them to think critically, collaborate with peers, and explore new ideas.

Lake Hills Elementary held its first STEM Night of the year on November 20, inviting students and families to explore hands-on “Mad Scientist” activities led by staff and local community partners. Students experimented, asked questions, and discovered new STEM concepts in a fun and engaging setting.

The event aligned with the MCAS Strategic Plan by expanding meaningful learning opportunities and encouraging students to explore their interests, supporting the Student Voice and Opportunities Pillar and the Meeting the Needs of Diverse Learners Pillar.

Lake Hills thanks the community organizations and families who helped make the evening a success

Edgewood Elementary held a Family Game Night in November, offering students and families an opportunity to enjoy an evening of board games and shared activities together. The event supported the Culture and Environment Pillar of the MCAS Strategic Plan by fostering a welcoming school community where families feel connected to their child’s learning environment.

In November, our ambassadors spent a morning at Pine Elementary for an inside look at how our Curriculum and Special Education teams support student learning across MCAS. Pine's choir kicked off the morning with a surprise performance.

After a quick overview of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and special education services from our directors, it was time to explore! Participants rotated through various classroom settings, including math and literacy lessons, sensory spaces, Pre-K classrooms, resource rooms, and even an ASL-supported class.

The morning concluded with a teacher panel and debrief that highlighted the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and the power of strong instructional teams.

Thank you to Pine Elementary for hosting and to our Curriculum and Special Education teams for opening their doors and sharing their expertise! We also want to give a big shout-out to our breakfast sponsor today, Restore Dental Arts! We appreciate the support of local businesses.

We are grateful for the strong community interest in this new program. Follow along on our Facebook page for updates and highlights: #MCASAmbassadors.

The nomination window for the 2025-2026 Teacher and Employee of the Year awards closed on November 21, and we are excited to share that we received an overwhelming number of nominations! Thank you to everyone who took the time to recognize the incredible staff members who make a difference every day in MCAS.

More updates about this year’s selection process will be shared later this month on our district website and social media channels.

Our winter lunch menus are now posted. Visit our Food Service webpage to view menus for all grade levels.

STAFF & STUDENT SHOUTOUTS

Congratulations to this month’s Pack Pride Spotlight, Mrs. Cisar, Coolspring Elementary School Food Service Tech. She has transformed the cafeteria into a warm and welcoming space and brings positivity, creativity, and compassion to every student she serves.

👉 Read her full story here: EducateMC.net/MCASNews.

CONGRATULATIONS to Mrs. Susan Shell, who was recognized as a 2025 Top 10 Finalist for Teacher of the Year at the Educators of Excellence Awards Gala! Thank you for everything you do for Marsh Elementary school.

Congratulations to our outstanding middle school musicians from Krueger and Barker who were selected for this year’s Honors Choir. These students earned their spots through dedication, hard work, and a strong commitment to their vocal performance.

Barker Middle School: Gabriela Benjamin and Lily Schlabach

Krueger Middle School: Patrick Gutierrez and Anthony Patino

We are proud of each of these students for representing their schools and Michigan City Area Schools with excellence. Their achievement reflects the talent and passion within our music programs. Great job, Wolves.

For many, the word "robotics" conjures up images of university labs and billion-dollar tech companies. At Knapp Elementary, it means hours after school spent coding, perfecting motor rotations, and a team of kids collaborating to bring their complex, wheeled contraptions to life. Led by a passion for problem-solving and a healthy dose of competitive spirit, the Knapp Elementary FLL Robotics Team has become the school’s newest sensation, turning simple plastic bricks and wires into tools of high-level engineering. Their journey from building simple attachment prototypes and coding to competing in big gymnasiums is a long process. More importantly, they have fun while doing it.

Coach Stevie Williamson, an Instructional Assistant at Knapp Elementary, leads the team this year, with co-coaches Liz Otero and Julie Kreighbaum, the district robotics director. This year's team was composed mostly of 6th graders, some of them having been in for three seasons now.

So what IS FLL robotics? "FLL" stands for "First Lego League." This league is for kids in grades 4-8, and the robot and the obstacles are made entirely of LEGO. Kids across the world compete in this league, and it is an excellent opportunity for young STEM enthusiasts to learn about robotics, coding, teamwork, and strategy.

In the past, other schools, such as Coolspring, Springfield, and Joy, have had the opportunity to participate in this great program. Michigan City's FLL leagues are sponsored by the Safe Harbor Program. Along with Knapp Elementary, Barker Middle School is also working to get a team started. Safe Harbor hopes to expand the number of teams in the coming years.

Knapp Elementary is proud to be an award-winning team. They have earned recognition every season, and this year they received the Judges' Award for being the most well-rounded team.

Congratulations to the MCHS Esports team on a successful 24-Hour Live Stream event in November. The team not only met their fundraising goal of $500, they more than doubled it, raising an impressive $1,075 for the Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.

Students powered through the full 24 hours, and while they are certainly tired, they had an incredible time supporting a cause that makes a real difference for children and families. We are proud of their dedication, teamwork, and commitment to giving back. Follow MC Wolves Esports on Facebook for more updates.

Non-Traditional Programs recognized students for the credits they earned during the first quarter. The display highlighted each student’s progress by showing their starting credit total in red and their ending total in blue.

Congratulations to the following students on their hard work and growth! Follow along on their facebook page (@MCASNonTraditionalPrograms) for more updates!

Algebra I Honors: Hailey Young, Ta’Kiyah Bell, Baize Mendoza, Kylon Barnes, and Vanessa Leon Lopez

English 9 (Frederick): Hope Crookshank -Cheyanne Armstrong , Vanessa Leon Lopez, Hanna Morford, and Maddox Garza

Human Geography (Starcevich): Alexandria Prater, Maddox Garza, Hailey Young, Valery Johnson, and Lucas Richmond

Biology (Mezo-Llano): Kennedy Davis; Vanessa Leon-Lopez, Maddox Garza, Madison Sobus, ans Cheyanne Armstrong

Shining Star Award: Maddox Garza, Valery Johnson, Bella Jones, and Lucas Richmond

English: Loy'El Mayhams (Top Student), Kelsi Houston, Yoselin Ambros-Xolio, Ella Galindo, Lawrence Patrick, and Avion Coaks

Chemistry: Deanna Johnson, Yoselin Ambros-Xolio, Loy'El Mayhams, Kamaria Holmes, Paige Cisar, and Josh Vaughn

U.S. History: Yoselin Ambros-Xolio, Kelsi Houston, Elaya Hachem, Ella Galindo, and Damani Edgington

Geometry: Elaya Hachem, Loy'El Mayhams, Yoselin Ambros-Xolio, Kelsi Houston, and Kamaria Holmes

Shining Star Award: Hezekiah Baker, Olivia DeMartinis, Joshua Vaughn, and Avion Coaks

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS IN ACTION

Reprographic Arts has opened a special online merchandise store to celebrate Michigan City spirit and support our students. The store is open now through January 11, and features designs inspired by the creativity of our very own MCHS students.

All items in the fundraiser merch store will generate a donation, with 20 percent of all sales donated directly to the high school.

This partnership grew from a feature in November’s Next Level News, which highlighted the mural created by MCHS seniors Abby, Amaya, and Jonathan in Principal Dr. Mroueh’s office. After seeing the mural shared on social media, Reprographic Arts surprised the students with custom sweatshirts featuring their design. Their continued support through this fundraiser reflects the strong community partnerships that help our Wolves shine.

Families, staff, and community members are invited to browse the store, show their Wolfpack pride, and support MCHS students.

During the week of November 10-14, our schools and community truly embodied The Wolfie Way as we rallied behind the MCHS Wolves on their journey to Regionals. The outpouring of support, from spirited activities across our buildings to cheers from district staff, students, families, and community members, showed what it means to stand together as One City One Pack.

As the team prepared to face Merrillville on November 14, the pride and unity across Michigan City were unmistakable. Our Wolves felt the strength of an entire community behind them. We are proud of their hard work, their determination, and the incredible Wolfpack spirit that shone throughout the week and all season long.

Joy Elementary kindergarten students participated in a meaningful learning experience this November, combining local history, academic skills, and character education. Students began their day at The Barker Mansion, where they explored the historic home and practiced counting skills as part of their math learning. They later visited the Graf Dairy Foundation Heroes Museum, where they learned how the museum’s superhero collection connects to the MCAS 7 Habits of Character.

Joy Elementary extends its appreciation to Barker Mansion and the Graf Dairy Foundation for providing students with an engaging and educational day.

Pine Elementary’s 5th and 6th Grade Art Club created a hand-painted kettle for The Salvation Army of Michigan City, featuring the city’s iconic lighthouse. This project demonstrated key elements of The Wolfie Way, as students used their skills to give back to the community and show kindness through service. Springfield Elementary also participated in this initiative by creating a hand-painted kettle of their own, further highlighting the strong spirit of service across MCAS.

At their most recent meeting, the Rotary Club of Michigan City presented Debbie Briggs, Director of the Adolescent Health Center at Michigan City High School, with a check for $1,700. The donation represents the proceeds from the club’s recent trivia night fundraiser, given in support of MCHS.

We are grateful for the Rotary Club’s generosity and their continued partnership in supporting our students and school community.

Beginning December 1, schools across our district will be participating in a nonperishable Food Drive to benefit the Salvation Army of Michigan City food pantry. This will culminate in a drive-through donation event on Saturday, December 20, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Salvation Army. Last year, our district collected over five tons of food!

You asked, and our LPCCTE Culinary Arts students are delivering. This holiday season, they are offering four varieties of delicious cake rolls for purchase. The sale runs through December 13, with pickup scheduled for December 17. Orders can be placed on our website, linked below. Each cake roll is prepared fresh, then frozen, and can be stored in your freezer for up to three months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator when you're ready to enjoy a festive treat.

Support our students and treat yourself to something sweet this season.

As we move into December, this is a great opportunity to remind our students and families about the importance of reading at home. Through our City Reads initiative and in alignment with The Wolfie Way, we encourage every child to build strong literacy habits that support academic success and a love of learning.

Reading for just 15 minutes a day can make a significant difference in a child’s vocabulary, comprehension, and overall confidence as a learner. Please share this reminder with your school community and encourage families to explore a new book together this month. Let’s continue strengthening our Pack through the power of reading. #CityReads

December 2: National Special Education Day

December 5: International Volunteer Day

Join Michigan City Area Schools in the Festival of Lights Parade! This annual community event is a wonderful opportunity to show your holiday spirit, celebrate school pride, and demonstrate what it means to walk the Wolfie Way. Whether you join us in the parade or cheer from the sidewalk, we look forward to celebrating the season together. The parade runs south from 4th Street to 9th Street beginning at 5:00 p.m.

Free assistance for seniors and their families in completing the FAFSA will be available on Tuesday, December 9 at 6:00 p.m. at Michigan City High School. Experts from INvestEd Indiana will be on hand to help families create both parent and student FSA IDs and complete the FAFSA.

Mark your calendars and join us so you can file with confidence and stay on track for important financial aid deadlines.

The One City One Sound districtwide holiday concert will take place this year on Thursday, December 11, at 7:00pm at Michigan City High School in the gym. This performance will feature over 600 vocal and instrumental ensembles from Barker Middle School, Krueger Middle School, and Michigan City High School. Special thanks to the music teachers and the many others who are working behind the scenes to organize this special event. More information will be shared soon to families. Please be sure to check the Michigan City Area Schools Music Facebook page for updates.

Event will be streamed on our YouTube Channel @EducateMC

Special thanks to Access La Porte County, WEFM radio, and WIMS radio.

December 8-12: Computer Science Education Week

Michigan City Area Schools is pleased to share a new educational travel opportunity for students in grades 5-11. In Summer 2028, students will have the chance to explore London, Normandy, the Loire Valley, and Paris through a 10-day international tour with Passports Educational Travel.

This experience will provide students with rich historical learning, cultural exploration, and memorable hands-on activities designed to broaden global understanding. Families interested in learning more are encouraged to attend an informational meeting. There is no commitment required to RSVP; the session is simply an opportunity to hear details about the itinerary, cost, safety measures, and how to reserve a spot on the trip.

Informational Meeting Details:

Date: December 4, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Google Meet

Meeting Link: https://meet.google.com/oon-toau-cuk
RSVP Required: Please RSVP using this link.

Questions? Contact Chris McHugh at cmchugh@mcas.k12.in.us.

Michigan City High School is excited to share details about an upcoming educational travel opportunity being planned in partnership with EF Tours. Trip organizer and educator Diana Weiss will host an informational session for families interested in learning more about this experience.

During the session, families will hear how this opportunity can benefit students, what is included in the trip, and the steps taken to ensure the experience remains safe, structured, and affordable.

The information session will take place on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Families may attend in person at Michigan City High School or virtually via Google Meet. In-person attendees should enter through Door A, where Diana will greet families beginning at 5:45 p.m.

Registration is required for all participants so organizers can plan appropriately. A parent or guardian must attend. Those unable to participate live may select “No, but send info” to receive follow-up materials and stay informed.

Families can register for the session using this link: https://bit.ly/3XzVxqY

For any questions, please contact Diana Weiss at dweiss01@mcas.k12.in.us.

In Summer 2027, students will have the chance to explore Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo, Japan through an immersive international learning experience.

This program offers students the opportunity to see new places, experience Japanese culture firsthand, and build lifelong skills such as independence, confidence, and global awareness. During the upcoming informational meeting, families will learn about the itinerary, hands-on learning activities, academic connections, trip cost, and steps to secure a spot on the tour.

This experience is open to students currently in grades 6–11. For questions or additional information, families may contact Daisy Lee at dlee03@mcas.k12.in.us.

• Boys Football: Ethan Buskirk, Izaiah Gipson, Trin Hart, Meekael Laurent, and Zaire McKinney

• Boys Soccer: Gerardo Patino

• Girls Soccer: Kiara Williams

• Boys Tennis: Riley Emshwiller-Sowards

• Girls Cross Country: Veronica Barnes and Madelyn Parry
• Honorable Mention: Mia Palomo

The Michigan City Wolves football team wrapped up an impressive season, finishing 8–4 and bringing home a sectional championship. Their playoff run ended in the Regional Championship against the Merrillville Pirates.

We are incredibly proud of our student-athletes for their hard work, determination, and commitment both on and off the field. We also extend a heartfelt thank you to the dedicated coaching staff, whose leadership and support guided the team throughout the season.

The Wolves represented Michigan City with pride, sportsmanship, and the true spirit of the Wolfpack.

Want to keep up with Michigan City High School athletics? Visit the MCHS Athletics website for schedules, scores, and team news. You can also follow Wolves Athletics on social media for photos, updates, and highlights throughout each season.

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Twitter (X)

The Wolves Fall Athletics season is underway, and we urge you to visit our new athletics website, GoMCWolves.com, to view the schedule for our teams in Cross Country, Football, Girls Golf, Boys Tennis, Soccer, and Girls Volleyball.

Fall season Athletic passes are now available for purchase in the Athletic Department Office at the high school or at home athletic events. The cost is $50 for adults, $30 for students. This year, an annual pass will also be sold for $125. GO WOLVES!

The MCHS Athletic Booster Club invites all Wolves supporters to join them for upcoming meetings throughout the school year. Meetings begin at 5:30 p.m. and take place in the Football War Room at Michigan City High School. Please enter through Door J.

Families, staff, and community members are welcome to attend. The Booster Club plays an important role in supporting student-athletes, making decisions that enhance athletic programs, and helping guide upcoming improvements to MCHS athletics.

Meetings are scheduled for:

• January 13
• February 17
• March 10

For more information, visit their Facebook page or email mchsathleticboosterclub@gmail.com.

Ready to roll up your sleeves and support our future leaders? From reading to kids and helping in the library, to mentoring through robotics or Safe Harbor, your time and talent make a huge impact. Visit our Visitors & Volunteers page to download the simple form and get started. With just a background check, you’ll be approved for three years of volunteering! Head over today and join us in empowering students across MCAS.

Learn more and sign up at educateMC.net/volunteer.

Michigan City Area Schools is proud to partner with the Economic Development Corporation Michigan City, Indiana, and the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce to expand work-based learning opportunities for our high school students.

We are currently seeking local businesses that can open their doors to students eager to explore career paths. Whether you can offer a job shadow, part-time job, internship, or apprenticeship, your business can help shape tomorrow’s workforce while gaining eager, motivated talent today.

This year, Michigan City High School students are already making an impact through these experiences. Alexis Gresham is gaining hands-on knowledge with South Shore Public Relations, while Abigail Mcclead is exploring the insurance industry through her placement with Crowel Insurance. Their stories highlight the power of connecting students with real-world learning in our community.

Additional partnerships with local businesses include Sera Group, LaPorte County Public Library, Regal Rexnord, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group, Soul Food Bistro, Hitachi, Novak Law, and The Brew Box. We look forward to sharing more about these experiences in the months ahead.

Michigan City Area Schools is looking for dedicated individuals to join our team. Current openings include positions in food service, transportation, and other support roles across the district. We are also seeking substitute teachers to help us maintain a strong learning environment for our students.

If you or someone you know is interested in making a difference in the lives of students while working in a supportive, community-focused environment, we encourage you to apply.

Visit EducateMC.net/employment to view open positions and apply today.