Zephyr Zipline
September 2025
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!
@wcsdgockley
@wcsdsteckel
@wcsdzephyr
@wcsdwcms
@wcsdwhs
@wcsdzephyrs
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
Denise Saylor, Gockley Elementary Principal
I have worked in the Whitehall-Coplay School District for the past 28 years as a classroom teacher, elementary school counselor, and now as the principal of Gockley Elementary. As a graduate of Whitehall High School, I am extremely honored and proud to be a part of the Gockley staff, this school district, and our community.
Prior to my employment at Whitehall, I was a kindergarten teacher in the Bethlehem Area School District. My educational background includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and Administrative Certification from Penn State University. I have also attained my Master’s Degree in Elementary Counseling from Kutztown University.
As we move into the upcoming school year, I am excited to be working with our Gockley students and families. I believe that communication between school and home is an integral part of the education of students at the K-1 level. Please do not hesitate to contact me during the year with questions or concerns regarding your child’s education.
As your child’s principal, I am excited for the rewards and challenges this school year will bring. Most importantly, I will work diligently along with your child’s teachers to ensure a positive learning experience for all the students of Gockley Elementary.
Sarah Rothermel, Steckel Elementary Principal
Hello Steckel families! My name is Mrs. Rothermel, and I am honored to serve as the principal of Steckel Elementary School. I bring almost 20 years of experience in school and district level leadership, and I’m passionate about creating a learning environment where every child feels safe, supported, and inspired to achieve their best.
I grew up right here in the Lehigh Valley, and I’m incredibly excited to return home to this fantastic community. It’s a privilege to serve in the place that shaped me, and I look forward to giving back to a region that means so much to my family and me.
Before joining the Steckel team, I was a Curriculum Supervisor, leading initiatives in Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), assessment literacy, and standards-aligned curriculum development. I hold advanced degrees in School Leadership and Curriculum & Instruction and am currently completing my doctorate degree focused on inclusive leadership and instructional equity from Wilkes University.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, practicing yoga, attending concerts, and supporting the arts, particularly local community theater. I also love a good book, a nice iced coffee, and cheering on my favorite team, the Penn State Nittany Lions!
I believe that every child can succeed when given the proper support, encouragement, and opportunities. I value open communication and believe strong partnerships with families are essential to student success. Please don’t hesitate to reach out. I welcome your questions, ideas, and feedback, and I look forward to working together to make this a fantastic year at Steckel!
Gabriel Dillard, Zephyr Elementary Principal
It is my pleasure to introduce myself to the Zephyr community as Principal of Zephyr Elementary School. My name is Gabriel Dillard, and I am eager to begin this exciting journey with the Zephyr community as we embark on another promising school year. I look forward to getting to know each of the students, the dedicated staff, and the supportive families that make up our school. Below you will find a brief overview of who I am and how my journey in education led me to Zephyr Elementary School.
My journey in education began in Bethlehem, PA, where I attended Sacred Heart Elementary School and graduated from Notre Dame High School of Easton. It was during my time at Notre Dame that my aspirations to become an educator began, and I went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Special Education and Elementary Education from Kutztown University.
In the fall of 2005, I began my career as a special education teacher in Nanakuli, Hawaii, where I taught high school mathematics and had the privilege of serving as an assistant wrestling coach. After two years, my wife and I welcomed our first son and decided to return to the Lehigh Valley, where I continued my journey as a special education teacher at Wilson Area High School for seven rewarding years. During my time at Wilson, I also earned a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Wilkes University. In 2014, I became a part of the Zephyr community as Assistant Principal of Whitehall High School, where I served until joining the staff of Zephyr Elementary School in January of 2022.
Currently, my wife and I reside in Bethlehem Township with our three sons, Keanu, Reef, and Waimea, and our two dogs, Moki and Tito. All three of our sons are actively involved in athletics and much of our time outside of school is spent on the wrestling mat or the gym. Additionally, my wife and I are both from large families and typically spend our free time visiting and catching up with our siblings.
Since the beginning of my career in Whitehall, I have always felt welcome by students and staff, and have taken pride in continuing to share that feeling with others in our community. As you get to know me, you will find that collaboration is essential to me, and I strongly believe that by working together as a team, we can create an environment where every student can thrive. With students, staff, my family, and in my own life, I emphasize the importance of goal-setting, recognizing individual strengths, and fostering a spirit of constant self-improvement. My goal is to build partnerships to ensure that our students reach their fullest potential.
I look forward to the opportunity to work with the Zephyr students, staff, and families. Should you have any questions, or concerns, or simply wish to connect, please don't hesitate to reach out. Your input and involvement are invaluable as we continue to create a positive learning environment at Zephyr!
Bethany Koenig, Whitehall-Coplay Middle School Principal
I'm thrilled to be the principal at Whitehall-Coplay Middle School, where my journey in education began! My passion for this profession, the vibrant campus environment, and the Zephyr pride throughout the Whitehall community first captured my heart during my student teaching placement here at the middle school while I was attending Kutztown University.
After graduating in 2008, I was ecstatic to begin my career teaching fifth grade at Zephyr Elementary. During my five years there, I built many lasting relationships within the Whitehall community and earned my Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Wilkes University. In 2014, I transitioned to Steckel Elementary, where I taught third grade for eight years. This period also saw me complete a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Lehigh University and earn my Administrative Certification.
Having served as an elementary assistant principal for two years, it was an honor to return to the middle school in a district I've proudly called home throughout my entire career. I'm eager to collaborate with the dedicated staff, incredible students, and supportive families of the Whitehall-Coplay School District to ensure an exceptional educational experience for all our students.
Outside of school, my husband and I live in Perkasie with our two dogs, Hank and Emmylou. In my free time, you'll often find me curled up with a good book, seeking out live music, or enjoying time with friends and family. I love the sunshine and cherish days spent on the beach or at our cabin in the Catskills. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions, I am here to support both you and your child throughout their middle school journey.
Dr. Peter Mayes, Whitehall High School Principal
It is my pleasure to introduce myself to you as the principal of Whitehall High School! My name is Dr. Peter J. Mayes and I am excited to lead in this important role for your child.
Over the past 27 years, I have served as an educator in elementary and middle schools throughout the Lehigh Valley, which is where I grew up. I began my professional career as a 5th and 6th grade teacher in the Bethlehem Area School District. I made a difficult decision to leave the classroom and joined Mosser Elementary School in the Allentown School District as Principal. As my daughters approached middle school, I was blessed to serve the Bethlehem Area School District as the Principal of Nitschmann Middle School and was fortunate enough to be their principal! Now, I have the opportunity to help your child make the leap from the middle school years to graduation here at Whitehall High School.
Thank you for entrusting your child’s education with the Whitehall-Coplay School District and Whitehall High School. As a first-generation college graduate, I know the power of a strong education and the lifelong impact that it can have on a person and their family. I believe strongly that a well-balanced education can make all the difference in a child’s future to help them achieve more than the previous generation. My parents encouraged me to make sure I always pursued higher education. I have earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Bloomsburg University, my Masters of Science in Secondary Curriculum and Instruction from Kutztown University, my Masters of Science in Educational Leadership from Wilkes University, and my Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from East Stroudsburg University.
lease communicate with me about any concerns, successes, or suggestions for your child or our school. You will find that I communicate regularly with our Whitehall High School community so we can all celebrate our students together!
Tadhg Dowd, Learning Support Teacher, Zephyr Elementary
How many years have you worked in education?
6 years
What are your favorite hobbies?
Running and soccer
What is your educational background?
I graduated from Slippery Rock University where I studied Early Childhood and Special Education. I was then hired in Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia where I worked for 6 years. I have taught 3 years of Special Education in 5th/6th Grade and 3 years of General Education in 5th Grade.
Why did you feel that joining the Whitehall-Coplay community was the right choice for you?
I felt Whitehall-Coplay was right for me because of the sense of community I felt in the schools and everywhere on campus.
What aspects of Whitehall-Coplay have impressed you most, so far?
Zephyr Elementary gave me a really good feeling right away. Everyone was so welcoming and helpful. I have been impressed with the educational knowledge and experience of my peers.
Joanne Jarrah, Kindergarten Teacher, Gockley Elementary
How many years have you worked in education?
This is my 18th year.
What are your favorite hobbies?
I love shopping and watching my boys play baseball.
What is your educational background?
I have a bachelors degree in Elementary Education and a Masters in Early childhood literacy from Wilkes university. I taught K in Allentown School District for 17 years.
Why did you feel that joining the Whitehall-Coplay community was the right choice for you?
I love the community feel.
What aspects of Whitehall-Coplay have impressed you most, so far?
The people are so nice, welcoming and helpful.
Sarah Shadle, English Teacher, Whitehall High School
How many years have you worked at Whitehall-Coplay?
6 years
What are your favorite hobbies?
I love to read, hike, travel, garden, play videogames, and spend time with my friends and family.
What do you love about the Whitehall-Coplay School District?
I love the amazing teachers that I get to work alongside.
What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?
Be kind to yourself and others. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and try new things!
Lisa Barr, Special Education Teacher, Whitehall-Coplay Middle School
How many years have you worked at Whitehall-Coplay?
10 years
What are your favorite hobbies?
Spending time with family, shopping, organizing, and going to the beach.
What do you love about the Whitehall-Coplay School District?
I love working at WCMS because it feels like a true community where everyone, the students, staff, and families come together to support one another. Our school is a place filled with energy, diversity, and opportunities for students to grow, and I feel proud to be part of their journey. I value the supportive colleagues I get to collaborate with, the welcoming environment we’ve built, and the joy of seeing students discover their strengths every day. It’s inspiring to work in a place where kindness, learning, and growth are at the heart of everything we do.
What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?
You don’t have to have it all figured out yet. Life unfolds in chapters, and it’s okay not to know the ending.
- Assistant Director of Special Education [District Wide]
- Special Education Teacher [Steckel Elementary]
- Certified School Nurse [Whitehall-Coplay Middle School]
- Paraeducators 6-8 [Whitehall-Coplay Middle School]
- Life Skills Paraprofessional [Gockley Elementary School]
- Traffic Monitors [District Wide]
- Security Substitute
- Maintenance Substitute [District Wide]
- Nurse Substitute [District Wide]
- Salaried Substitute Teacher [Whitehall High School]
- Substitute Teacher [District Wide]
- Substitute Paraprofessional [District Wide]
- Bus Driver [Transportation]
- Bus Aide Substitute [Transportation]
- Bus Mechanic [Transportation]
- Assistant Swimming Coach [Athletics]
- Assistant Track and Field Coach [Athletics]
- Assistant Girls Basketball Coach [Athletics]
- Seasonal Assistant to the Athletic Director [Athletics]
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.
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