Superintendent's Message May 12, 2021

Posted:  5-13-2021

From:  Superintendent Pat Dubbs

It’s been an incredibly challenging school year for everyone and I wanted to reach out with a heartfelt thank you to our students, parents and teachers. Additionally, I would like to share our plans for next school year.

It was little over a year ago that I was sending one of the hardest communications ever – our school district would remain closed for the rest of the 2020 school year.

Since that time, we’ve learned a lot as a school community about living amidst a pandemic as well as remaining focused on student learning and growth. Working collectively for our students has been something that we can be proud of.

Looking ahead, our administrative team has been working through key details for next school year. We are excited for all students to attend classes on our campus for the 2021/22 school year. We will not offer at-home virtual learning. We look forward to refocusing our efforts to provide an excellent in-person educational experience for students supporting their social, emotional, and academic needs. It will also be an exciting new start with our campus changes and new elementary school.

High School Principal Dr. Sam Ison is retiring after 41 years in education. Our current Middle School Principal, Ms. Karyn Phillips, will transition into the role of Junior/Senior High Principal. She will become the first female principal at the high school level in Waynesville history. Ms. Phillips has been working hard on this transition and we are excited about the leadership she will provide our school community.

Ms. Phillips states: “As a resident of Waynesville for the past fourteen years, I've grown to know many of you in my various roles as parent, educator and administrator. I've been a firsthand witness to the love, support, and Spartan pride this community has for our school district. Because of that hometown pride, I'm extremely grateful and excited for the opportunity to serve our students, staff and community as the principal of the new Waynesville Junior/Senior High School. I'm looking forward to honoring the Waynesville traditions from years past and thrilled to be a part of the future success in continuing excellence in education for our children for years to come.”

At the May Board of Education meeting, Superintendent Pat Dubbs recommended two (2) new additions to our administrative team.

· Mr. Chip Will – Assistant Junior/Senior High Principal

Mr. Will earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mathematical Education, along with a Master’s Degree in educational leadership. He has been an integral part of Bellbook High School math department serving as co-chairperson. Mr. Will was also a Sergeant in the United States Army National Guard. Chip would like to use his educational leadership skills to help communicate effectively to students, parents and faculty alike. He wants to focus on the school’s mission and what’s best for the students.

Quote from Chip: “I currently live in Springboro with my amazing wife, Nicole and I have four kids (Carly 8, Parker 5, Austin 3 and Ellie 1). I am an avid sports fan and my favorite teams are the Buckeyes, Reds and Bengals, but my outside-of- the-area team is the Buffalo Bills. I have spent the last 14 years as a math teacher and coach in both the Beavercreek and Bellbrook school districts. I have taught at both the middle school and high school levels. I am impressed by the Waynesville schools and cannot wait to start in August with the students, staff, parents and this amazing community! I hope everyone enjoys their upcoming summer! Go Spartans!”

Mr. Brian Byrer – Assistant Elementary Principal

Mr. Byrer earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in elementary education along with a Master’s Degree in educational administration. Mr. Byrer is currently an Administrative Intern at Hilliard City Schools. Brian is passionate about strengthening excellent teachers and helping students achieve academic and life success. Brian is skilled at leading teams, forging community partnerships, and supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional wellness.

Quote from Brian: "I am honored to accept the role of Elementary Assistant Principal with Wayne Local Schools. The opening of a new building this fall is really exciting and the Waynesville community is one that I admire and strongly believe in. I'm looking forward to working with and supporting the students, staff, and families in this great district. I hope to find some fellow Reds and Bengals fans out there too. I'm excited to meet everyone!"

Please join me in welcoming these two leaders to our district. We are confident that they are great fits in their new roles as we plan for a return to normalcy.

In closing, I am grateful for the way in which our Spartan community has responded throughout this school year. Thank you for your continued patience, trust and support as we work together to make Wayne Local Schools a great place for kids!