Office of the Superintendent

The District Sinking Fund continues to be a critical resource for maintaining facilities, adding safety and security features, and updating technology. Since its approval, Sinking Fund allocations have been used for updating HVAC systems, parking lot and driveway repairs, numerous school safety features (including secured entrances), and the District’s 1:1 Chromebook Initiative.

Planning for next year’s Sinking Fund utilization is underway. Recabeling Williamston Middle School and Williamston High School for future technology enhancements has already been approved. The Board of Education is reviewing proposals to replace the Fire Alarm System at the High School (an anticipated $320,000 expenditure) and upgrade classroom projectors and screens in the secondary buildings. Other upcoming Sinking Fund allocations include additional parking lot and driveway repairs as well as fixing drainage issues in select locations. 

Sinking Fund budget updates can be found on the WCS Sinking Fund page. Photos of completed projects are also posted to that site. 

On behalf of our students and staff, thank you for supporting the Sinking Fund and the important investments it allows.  
 

Williamston continues to excel in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education. Part of our K-12 STEAM initiative includes engaging in the latest research and presenting our lessons learned to other education professionals. The annual Michigan Science Teachers Association (MSTA) conference is one way WCS shares our work.

WCS educators were well represented at this year’s state conference. Some of the highlights included:

Discovery Elementary educator Rebecca Durling received her Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. I had the good fortune to attend the dinner where Ms. Durling accepted the award. We were joined by retired Explorer Elementary educator and MSTA Distinguished Service Award Recipient Conni Crittenden.
 

Ms. Durling presented a three-hour workshop at the conference titled “Growing up WILD.” The session highlighted lessons and instructional practices that promote outdoor learning opportunities for students. Attendees earned their instructor certification to teach the curriculum investigated during the workshop.

Williamston High School educator Theresa Billy led a session called “Integrating Earth Science into Core Classes.” The presentation outlined how WHS teachers have successfully examined the 71 Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and blended them into three integrated science courses without the use of an “off the shelf” curriculum. Teachers from fellow high-achieving districts throughout the state sought additional information on how this curricular alignment process was accomplished.  

Discovery Elementary educator and MSTA Fellow Kortney Smith also presented. Her session was titled “Science Journaling with Young Fives.” It centered on how our youngest elementary students are documenting their authentic science learning experiences. 

We are proud of these Williamston educators for sharing their expertise and professional accomplishments. WCS continues to accelerate STEAM education practices because of their efforts and those of other STEAM educators throughout the District. 

Community members are invited to see more STEAM learning on display at the First Robotics District competition at Mason High School on March 22nd and 23rd. The event runs from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm both days. It can also be watched online. Learn more at the link here. Good luck to our Hornet Robotics Team!
 

The 2025-2026 District Calendar has been published. The one-page summary can be accessed on the District website or at the link here.

Additionally, the calendar tool on the WCS website has been updated with applicable dates.

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As a result of the PowerSchool data breach this past December, the company is offering two years of complimentary identity protection services to students and educators who were impacted by this event. The offer expires on May 30, 2025. Complete details can be found at the link here.  

WCS will continue to keep the PowerSchool data breach informational website on the District homepage (under announcements). The direct link to updates from PowerSchool regarding this situation can be found here.

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Gun Locks:

WCS has been provided with gun locks by the Michigan State Police. If needed, a free gun lock can be obtained at the District Central Office, 418 Highland Street, Door #1, during regular business hours. 

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Tri-County Wireless Emergency Alert Test:

As part of Michigan’s Severe Weather Awareness Week, on March 19, 2025, the Tri-County area will take part in a TEST cellphone-only Wireless Emergency Alert. The test will occur at 12:59 Eastern Time, ahead of the 1:00 pm ET Voluntary Statewide Tornado Drill.