Whitley County Consolidated Schools (WCCS) congratulates and extends appreciation for three board of school trustee members who ended their service in 2024.
Board of School Trustees, Shelby Longenbaugh, Stan Meyer, and Bill Tucker, Jr. were recognized for their tenure of service at the regular December Board Meeting on December 16, 2024.
Each member was awarded a lifetime pass to all WCCS athletics and a donation was made on their behalf to local charitable organizations.
Shelby Longenbaugh, four-year board member, is most proud of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) initiative and development of the three academies at Columbia City High School.
“I loved getting to see each building during our tours and hear presentations from each building. I learned a lot and encourage the community to attend meetings to learn about what is happening in our buildings. Ask questions and stay involved,” Longenbaugh said.
Retiring long-term board member Stan Meyer, retired after 16 years of service to WCCS Board of School Trustees. Prior to serving on the board, Meyer taught 44 years in WCCS.
“I never thought I would see a new high school in my lifetime. It was turned down in the early 2000s and the community was correct, we had to get some of our finances straightened out. It was a huge selling point for our board- we could build the new school and not raise tax rates,” Meyer said when asked what one of the most impactful projects he was a part of. 
“Parents will often mention the new school and I thank them. The community built it, they voted yes, we can’t take credit for that,” Meyer added.
As a long-time educator, Stan’s community reputation was what encouraged a former school board member, Bob Thomas, to recommend Stan for the position.
“When Bob became ill, my wife and I were walking past Bob’s home and he made an effort to get out of his car and tell me, ‘Stan, you better run for school board.’ At the time, Bob’s son had taken his place when Bob passed. After his son’s job took him to a different area, the school board seat was open again and I threw my name in. The community has been so great to me,” Meyer said.
Stan enjoys his time keeping score at CCHS basketball games and was an instrumental part in the efforts to welcome Eagle Tech Academy to the district as well.
Another member, William (Bill) Tucker, Jr. retired from the board of school trustees after 12 years of service. Tucker initially filled a vacancy created by another member and was elected officially in January of 2013.
Tucker proudly represented Jefferson Township and also named the construction and occupancy of the new high school as his greatest achievement to participate in.
“WCCS is grateful for Shelby, Stan and Bill’s commitment to our community and their service over the years. School boards help govern the school district and focus on strategic priorities, which are set in our strategic plans. It is a job of dedicated work and commitment and one they did so well. Their commitment to WCCS is appreciated,” said Dr. Laura McDermott, WCCS Superintendent.
As the Board of School Trustees continues to support the administration in the creation and implementation of education programs that benefit our community, Tucker encourages the community to participate in elections and to attend board meetings to obtain information and answers to any questions they may have.
The Board of Education for the Whitley County School Corporation consists of nine (9) members elected by the district voters who help govern the Whitley County Consolidated Schools District.
Thank you for your service, Shelby, Stan and Bill!
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About Whitley County Consolidated Schools
Whitley County Consolidated Schools (WCCS) is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that empowers all students to achieve their full potential. Serving Columbia City and surrounding communities, WCCS believes in fostering a learning environment that promotes academic excellence, personal growth, and character development. With a commitment to innovation and collaboration, our district offers a diverse curriculum, dedicated educators, and state-of-the-art facilities designed to inspire and engage every learner. Through partnerships with families and the community, WCCS strives to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world. For more information about our schools, programs, and initiatives, visit us at [www.wccsonline.com](https://www.wccsonline.com).
Media Contact
Dr. Laura McDermott, WCCS Superintendent mcdermottla@wccsonline.com
Kennedy Saggars, WCCS Marketing Director saggarskt@wccsonline.com