School News

Adventure, history, unforgettable views, and fun! WMS 8th graders shared an incredible experience exploring the power and beauty of Niagara Falls. They got up close and personal on the iconic Maid of the Mist -- yes, they got soaked and loved every minute of it! Students also stepped back in time at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park - walking the decks of historic ships and learning about the courage and sacrifice of those who served. Their trip also included a visit to Niagara Falls State Park and the Aquarium of Niagara. From natural wonders to living history, this trip was packed with moments our Rebels will never forget.

 

Two of Willoughby Middle School's staff were honored with the Impact and Connection Award this month. Staff are nominated by their peers for being extraordinary in their field. Superintendent Dr. Patrick Ward visited the school to present the awards earlier this month.

Rosemary Tomba, Student Monitor at Willoughby Middle School, is a caring and dedicated presence in our school community. She consistently goes above and beyond to support all students, building positive relationships and ensuring they feel safe, valued, and respected each day. Her positive presence helps create a welcoming and supportive environment where all students can succeed.

 

Sandie Kramer, Wilson Reading Teacher at Willoughby Middle School, is a kind and compassionate educator who is deeply committed to supporting students in their reading growth. She consistently goes the extra mile to meet individual student needs, creating a supportive and encouraging learning environment. Her caring nature and dedication have a lasting impact on the success and confidence of all WMS students.

 

When you think of algae, you probably think of "green stuff" growing in the water. Did you know that algae has the potential to go from being "icky" to "awesome"? 

Students in science at Willoughby Middle learned how to cultivate algae, monitor growth, analyze and interpret data. Making connections about algae production and its positive effect on the global environment was eye-opening. Thanks to the innovative teaching style of Mrs. Dodich, who seeks out supplementary resources, students got first hand experience by using "The Algae Academy" curriculum for exploration. Sponsored by the U.S Department of Energy Bioenergy Technologies Office, hands-on learning and authentic science experiences are sparking curiosity and keeping them engaged - one of our promises to the community.

 

Incoming sixth graders learned a lot about Willoughby Middle School at the recent Experience Night. Current students helped the fifth graders and their families tour the building and visit with teachers in the classrooms after hearing Principal Greene share some highlights about all the school has to offer. Moving to middle school doesn't have to make you nervous - everyone is here to help you see how great it is to be a Willoughby Middle Rebel!

 

Willoughby Middle School is proud to partner with the Freedom Flag Foundation in honoring the memory of those lost on September 11, 2001. As part of this partnership, the school now proudly displays the Freedom Flag, the nation’s only codified 9/11 flag of remembrance. This powerful symbol has been flown or displayed in nearly 2,000 schools, fire stations, and civic buildings across all 50 states. Originating in Richmond, Virginia, the Freedom Flag has been designated as the Official Flag of Remembrance for the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Students at Willoughby Middle School have engaged deeply with the meaning behind each symbol on the Freedom Flag, sharing what they’ve learned during annual Patriot Day remembrance activities and through a special presentation at a Board of Education meeting.

In addition, Willoughby Middle School holds the unique distinction of being the only middle school in Ohio with a World Trade Center artifact on loan for educational display. The steel beam, recovered from Tower 1 at Ground Zero, serves as a profound teaching tool. Though today’s students were not yet born on 9/11, the opportunity to see and reflect on this artifact brings history to life in a meaningful and emotional way, bridging the past with the present and fostering a lasting understanding of the day’s impact.

This partnership and artifact display represent a tremendous honor for the school and the Willoughby-Eastlake community.