The Wildcat Chat

Dear Wildcat Families,

Gratitude

As we reflect on another outstanding week at Willard Middle School, we are reminded of just how much we have to be grateful for across our incredible school community. The collective effort, dedication, and care shown by our staff, students, and families continue to make Willard such a special place.

Testing – A sincere thank you to Mr. Clarke for his incredible organization and attention to detail in preparing thousands of test tickets and coordinating hundreds of testing bins. His behind-the-scenes work ensured that our testing days ran smoothly and efficiently for both students and staff. We also deeply appreciate our 6th and 7th grade English and Math teachers, who thoughtfully planned meaningful remediation and enrichment opportunities while our 8th grade students were testing.

Initial SOL Results – We are excited to share that the initial SOL testing results are very promising. We are seeing strong levels of achievement across the building, along with notable student growth compared to last year. These early results are a testament to the hard work of our students and the dedication of our teachers to supporting every learner’s success.

6th Grade Field Trip to Mount Vernon – A special thank you to Ms. Hacikyan, Ms. Berkheimer, and the entire 6th grade team for organizing a memorable field trip to Mount Vernon. Despite the rainy weather, it was inspiring to see the excitement and enthusiasm of our students as they departed. This experience would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of our teachers and the many parent chaperones who volunteered their time to ensure a safe and enriching trip.

Art 7 In-Person Clay Experience – A big thank you to Ms. McCallum for bringing creativity to life by organizing the Art 7 In-Person Clay Experience! Classrooms were filled with energy as students designed imaginative clay monsters and unique clocks, each showcasing their creativity and personality. We look forward to seeing their finished projects displayed around the school.

Battle of Braddock – Tonight! – We are looking forward with great excitement as we compete for another championship tonight at Lightridge High School! A huge thank you to Mr. Judd for his outstanding coordination, from managing logistics to designing team shirts with Ms. Ferrell, who led the tie dye efforts. Mr. Judd also connected with Loudoun Now to spotlight this experience. You can read the article below:

Strong Finish

As the year winds down, we’re focused on a smooth and positive finish. You can help by encouraging your child to stay engaged and ensuring they arrive at school on time and ready to learn. We’ve also been reminding students that water is the only beverage permitted in classrooms and that energy drinks are not allowed at Willard. This helps us maintain a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for everyone.

Enjoy this Memorial Day weekend, and we look forward to welcoming back your child on Tuesday!

In partnership,

Mr. Peterson

Assistant Principal

Attendance continues to be essential from now until June 12. Please refrain from taking your children out for extended periods, such as vacations, as there is still so much learning time left. LCPS deems vacations as unexcused absences. Students are responsible for making arrangements with their teachers for make-up work. If students are unable to complete an assignment by the end of the school year, the missing work may receive a grade of 0. Please reach out to your dean or counselor if there are any extenuating circumstances.

• May 28: Grade 8 Science SOL
• June 4: Rising 9th Grade Visit to Lightridge HS
• June 4: Visit from Lightridge Seniors
• June 10: Grade 8 Field Trip to Kings Dominion + Grade 6/Grade 7 Field Day
• UPDATED - June 12: Last Day for Students + Clap Out Ceremony for Grade 8 Students

Click on the video above to listen to SOL Testing expectations and reminders.

Grade 7 Science Teacher

Hi, my name is Shauna Mihalko. I am excited to join the Willard Science Team for the 2026-2027 school year. This will be my 16th year teaching and my 9th year in middle school. I am originally from the Hudson Valley, New York. I have lived in Maryland for the past 10 years since marrying a USNA graduate.

I began my teaching career with the New York City Department of Education while completing my master's at Mercy College in Manhattan. In 2015, I moved south to be closer to my retired parents and met my husband. While living in Annapolis and teaching in Maryland, I began taking professional development courses at the Naval Academy STEM Center for Education and worked part-time as a docent at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. These two experiences led me to pursue STEM education. In 2020, I earned my Post-Master's Degree in STEM Leadership with Distinction from NASA Endeavor/Columbia University Teachers College. After earning my degree, I got involved in Green Schools and environmental education. In addition to classroom instruction, I began teaching gardening and environmental stewardship after school and managed a school-wide recycling program.

My educational philosophy centers on multisensory learning. I use multiple intelligences and hands-on engagement to help scholars analyze content and enjoy science. I am passionate about connecting classroom concepts to the real world, ensuring scholars grasp the relevance and importance of what we are learning. I believe all children can succeed when engaged and supported, recognizing that not everyone learns the same way. My background in dance, art, and music also allows me to integrate the arts into lessons when they complement the curriculum.

Learning Specialist

Hello Willard community! I am thrilled to join the team as a first year special education teacher. I completed my bachelor's degree in Integrative Studies with a concentration on Education studies from George Mason University. Teaching has always been what I've wanted to do, I enjoy helping diverse learners grow and take risks, and surprise themselves with what they can accomplish. Outside of school, I love all things Disney, cooking, coaching High School softball, and spending time with my family. I am excited to build meaningful relationships with students, staff, and families and become an active part of the Wildcat community!

Learning Specialist

I’m Katie Brocious and I’m thrilled to be a Willard Wildcat! I have been a program teacher, teaching assistant, and substitute teacher in Loudoun County Public Schools. Currently, I am working on my Master’s Degree in Special Education and, previously, I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from VCU. I believe in creating exciting and creative lessons for all students that empower them to own their own learning and use it for lifelong success. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, traveling, and shopping.

Resource Teacher

A Maryland native and Towson University graduate, Rick holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science as well as a Master's degree in Leadership. After serving 12 years at the Pentagon as a contractor and federal police officer, he transitioned into education, teaching criminal justice as an Adjunct Professor at Ivy Tech Community College and serving in substitute teaching roles at Carmel High School and Loudoun County Public Schools. With a background rooted in national security and a passion for education, Rick brings a practical, grounded perspective shaped by years in both public service and the classroom.

We are thrilled to invite you to Willard's Spectrum Showcase!

This event is the grand finale of our recent circuitry STEM unit, completed in partnership with the Orblynx STEAM Academy. Throughout this unit, students have been hard at work designing and building original projects that blend electrical and mechanical engineering. This showcase is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate their ingenuity, technical skills, and creative problem-solving.

Event Details:

• Date: Monday, June 1st
• Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
• Location: Willard Cafeteria

From complex circuits to mechanical designs, the students have put incredible effort into these inventions. We can't wait for you to see their "Innovation in Action" and celebrate their hard work with us.

Our annual PTA Elections are right around the corner on May 20th! We are looking for enthusiastic parents to help lead our community for the 2026-2027 school year. Please take a look at the attached flyer for details on how you can get involved. We hope to see you there!