🧦 HEY LISA, YOU KNOCKED OUR SOCKS OFF // Lisa Hoover, Reading Specialist at Kindergarten Academy, not only helps our youngest Wildcats build a love of reading, but also helps support future Wildcats and their families through Wee Wildcats, a monthly program for PreK children. 📚
Recently, Lisa had the opportunity to share the Wee Wildcats model with several other districts as they explore creating similar programs of their own. What a wonderful example of leadership, collaboration, and the impact that starts right here in our Wildcat community.
Thank you, Lisa, for not only sharing your love of reading with neighboring districts, but also for helping our youngest learners and future Wildcats feel welcomed, supported, and excited about learning from the very beginning. 🐾
#WildcatPride #YouKnockedOurSocksOff
Recently, Lisa had the opportunity to share the Wee Wildcats model with several other districts as they explore creating similar programs of their own. What a wonderful example of leadership, collaboration, and the impact that starts right here in our Wildcat community.
Thank you, Lisa, for not only sharing your love of reading with neighboring districts, but also for helping our youngest learners and future Wildcats feel welcomed, supported, and excited about learning from the very beginning. 🐾
#WildcatPride #YouKnockedOurSocksOff
💛 THE LITTLE THINGS THAT MEAN EVERYTHING // This is worth the read, we promise! Throughout the school year, Emma, a KinderCat who is visually impaired, often stopped by the front office while learning the layout of the building. During those visits, she formed a special bond with Administrative Assistant Melinda Gochenaur.
Emma was especially drawn to Mrs. Gochenaur’s textured, beaded lanyard, and what started as a simple connection quickly became something much more meaningful. To celebrate all Emma accomplished this year, Mrs. Gochenaur found a similar lanyard and partnered with Christina Leister and Carrie Lersch to personalize it with beads that spelled EMMA in Braille before gifting it to her.
These are the moments that define who we are and what we do. The moments that create connection, foster belonging, and remind students they are seen, valued, and loved. Thank you, Mrs. Gochenaur, Mrs. Leister, and Mrs. Lersch.
(Proudly shared with the support of our young Wildcat’s mom.) 💛
#WildcatPride
Emma was especially drawn to Mrs. Gochenaur’s textured, beaded lanyard, and what started as a simple connection quickly became something much more meaningful. To celebrate all Emma accomplished this year, Mrs. Gochenaur found a similar lanyard and partnered with Christina Leister and Carrie Lersch to personalize it with beads that spelled EMMA in Braille before gifting it to her.
These are the moments that define who we are and what we do. The moments that create connection, foster belonging, and remind students they are seen, valued, and loved. Thank you, Mrs. Gochenaur, Mrs. Leister, and Mrs. Lersch.
(Proudly shared with the support of our young Wildcat’s mom.) 💛
#WildcatPride
❤️💛 SCHOOL NURSE DAY // Today we’re celebrating the caring hearts behind our health rooms. Our school nurses are a calm presence, a listening ear, and a source of comfort for students each day.
From bumps and bruises to moments that call for extra care, they show up with kindness, patience, and expertise.
Thank you for all you do to help our students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. Today we celebrate you, every day we appreciate you.
📸 Photo of our school nurses shared courtesy Missy Coffman.
#WildcatPride
From bumps and bruises to moments that call for extra care, they show up with kindness, patience, and expertise.
Thank you for all you do to help our students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. Today we celebrate you, every day we appreciate you.
📸 Photo of our school nurses shared courtesy Missy Coffman.
#WildcatPride
🐾 KINDERCAT FAVORITES // Field trips, friends, fun, and of course, lots of learning are some of our KinderCats’ favorite things. These smiles say it all.
From exploring new places to sharing laughs with classmates, it’s been a year full of moments that make learning even more special. Check out some of the recent adventures of our young Wildcats in Scott Herbein’s class. 💛
#WildcatPride
From exploring new places to sharing laughs with classmates, it’s been a year full of moments that make learning even more special. Check out some of the recent adventures of our young Wildcats in Scott Herbein’s class. 💛
#WildcatPride
🚌 DRIVEN BY CARE // Today, we’re celebrating Bus/Van Driver Appreciation Day. From the first to last smile of the day, our bus/van drivers do so much more than get students from point A to point B. They create a welcoming start, a safe ride, and a familiar, friendly presence our students can count on.
📸 Thank you to Mr. Scott of B&S and all of our bus/van drivers across the district for your patience and care. Today we celebrate you, every day we appreciate you. 💛
💬 Feel free to drop a note of thanks or share a favorite memory of a bus/van driver who made a difference in the comments.
#WildcatPride
🎨 LITTLE ARTIST, BIG TALENT // Sometimes the smallest hands create the biggest masterpieces.
KinderCat Vedanth was proud to show off his incredible drawing of a car (a BMW, to be specific 😊) and truck, and we couldn’t help but be impressed by the detail, creativity, and care he put into every line. 🚗🚛
We love seeing our young artists shine and share their talents with such confidence. Keep creating, young Wildcat! We can’t wait to see what you draw next.
#WildcatPride
🛍️ OPERATION WILDCAT YARD SALE STARTS TOMORROW // The 25th Indoor Yard Sale, hosted by our friends at Operation Wildcat, kicks off tomorrow, and it’s bigger than ever. Thousands of items will fill the tables at McBIC – Mechanicsburg Brethren in Christ Church, including books, toys, vintage finds, household items, collectibles, sporting goods, and more.
Friday, April 10 - 8 AM – 8 PM
Saturday, April 11 - 7:30 AM – 12 PM
Stop by, find a few great treasures, and support a great cause. We hope to see you there!
📍 Mechanicsburg Brethren in Christ Church
1050 S York St, Mechanicsburg
#WildcatPride
🐾 FUTURE WILDCATS ARE HERE // Today was all about big smiles, tiny backpacks, and the start of something really special. Some of our incoming KinderCats joined us for our Wildcat Expedition kindergarten orientation program, getting their very first glimpse of what it means to be a Wildcat.
From meeting new faces to learning what to expect in the year ahead, it was an event full of excitement, curiosity, and just a few happy nerves. We can already tell this group is going to do amazing things.
Welcome to the Wildcat family, little ones. We’re so glad you’re here. 💙
#WildcatPride
🧦 HEY ALYSSA, YOU KNOCKED OUR SOCKS OFF // Alyssa Messner, Kindergarten Academy ELD Teacher, truly stepped up when it mattered most. During a recent water main break and unexpected early dismissal at the school, Alyssa jumped in to support Administrative Assistant Melinda Gochenaur by answering phones, tracking transportation changes, and helping ensure every KinderCat made it home safely and to the right place.
👏 And that’s not all. Alyssa also recently helped translate new curricular materials so families could fully engage in activities during conferences, making the experience more accessible for all.
That’s one sock for each of her two outstanding moments of care and support. 😊
#WildcatPride
👏 And that’s not all. Alyssa also recently helped translate new curricular materials so families could fully engage in activities during conferences, making the experience more accessible for all.
That’s one sock for each of her two outstanding moments of care and support. 😊
#WildcatPride
☀️ SUNSHINE & SMILES // Our KinderCats at Kindergarten Academy took full advantage of this unseasonably warm weather with extra smiles, lots of fresh air, and plenty of playground fun at recess. From running and climbing to laughing with friends, yesterday was the perfect day to be outside (and today is, too!).
A little sunshine goes a long way. 💙
#WildcatPride
A little sunshine goes a long way. 💙
#WildcatPride
💙 SCHOOL SOCIAL WORK WEEK // This week, we recognize the incredible impact of our school social workers and the vital role they play in supporting students and families. They help navigate challenges, connect families with resources, and partner with staff to ensure students have what they need to be successful in school. Their work often happens quietly and behind the scenes — but it strengthens our entire Wildcat community.
Today we celebrate you. Every day we appreciate you. 💙
#WildcatPride
Today we celebrate you. Every day we appreciate you. 💙
#WildcatPride
📚🎩 OH, THE PLACES WE’LL READ // If you spotted a red and white striped hat at Kindergarten Academy drop-off this morning, you weren’t imagining things … 👀 It's Read Across America Week!
Reading Interventionist Lisa Hoover kicked off the day in full Dr. Seuss style, welcoming students with smiles, stories, and a reminder that reading opens the door to adventure. From silly rhymes to beloved classics, this week is all about celebrating the joy of books and the power of literacy.
When our teachers show up with this much spirit before the first bell even rings, you know it’s going to be a good week. 💙
Let the reading fun begin.
#WildcatPride
Reading Interventionist Lisa Hoover kicked off the day in full Dr. Seuss style, welcoming students with smiles, stories, and a reminder that reading opens the door to adventure. From silly rhymes to beloved classics, this week is all about celebrating the joy of books and the power of literacy.
When our teachers show up with this much spirit before the first bell even rings, you know it’s going to be a good week. 💙
Let the reading fun begin.
#WildcatPride
🦬 BRINGING HISTORY TO LIFE // As part of their unit on Native American studies, our KinderCats are learning about the important role bison played in daily life. To help them truly understand just how massive these animals are, Scott Herbein created a life-sized bison silhouette right inside his classroom. Let’s just say… there were some wide eyes when our little learners realized how big “BIG” really is.
Hands-on learning makes history unforgettable.
📸 Special thanks to Mr. Herbein for capturing the moment.
#WildcatPride
Hands-on learning makes history unforgettable.
📸 Special thanks to Mr. Herbein for capturing the moment.
#WildcatPride
❄️ TWO-HOUR DELAY // Tomorrow, Monday, February 23, 2026, Mechanicsburg Area School District will operate on a two-hour delay schedule. We will continue to monitor conditions overnight and will reach back out if weather or road conditions necessitate any further changes. Thank you and stay safe, Wildcats.
🧦💜 HEY MELINDA, YOU KNOCKED OUR SOCKS OFF // Shoutout to Melinda Gochenaur, Administrative Assistant at Kindergarten Academy, for going above and beyond to make substitutes feel welcomed, prepared, and part of the team.
Anyone who has ever substituted knows how challenging it can be to arrive without knowing the day’s details — from spirit days to recess duty on bitter cold mornings. Mrs. Gochenaur takes the extra step by reaching out ahead of time to share helpful information, ensuring substitutes walk in feeling confident and supported.
Small actions like these help build a stronger sense of belonging and community for everyone at Kindergarten Academy. Thank you for making a difference, Melinda.
🧦 (One pair of socks just isn’t enough anymore — with so many reasons and people to celebrate, you may just begin to see two recognitions each week.)
#WildcatPride #YouKnockedOurSocksOff
Anyone who has ever substituted knows how challenging it can be to arrive without knowing the day’s details — from spirit days to recess duty on bitter cold mornings. Mrs. Gochenaur takes the extra step by reaching out ahead of time to share helpful information, ensuring substitutes walk in feeling confident and supported.
Small actions like these help build a stronger sense of belonging and community for everyone at Kindergarten Academy. Thank you for making a difference, Melinda.
🧦 (One pair of socks just isn’t enough anymore — with so many reasons and people to celebrate, you may just begin to see two recognitions each week.)
#WildcatPride #YouKnockedOurSocksOff
🤝 COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS // School Social Workers Kelly Herman and Megan Garrison recently represented our district at the United Way Early Learning Resource Fair. Events like this help strengthen partnerships, connect families with valuable resources, and support our youngest learners as they get ready to take the exciting step into kindergarten (and the life of a KinderCat). We’re proud to be part of a community that works together to support children and families from the very beginning.
#WildcatPride
#WildcatPride
❄️ TWO-HOUR DELAY, 1/29/26 and 1/30/26 // Mechanicsburg Area School District will operate on a two-hour delay schedule on Thursday, January 29, and Friday, January 30, 2026. Based on several factors—including cold temperatures, the need to navigate snow piles, and the benefits of increased daylight—a delay was the best decision for our students.
Thank you for your patience as we work our way back to a normal school schedule.
Thank you for your patience as we work our way back to a normal school schedule.
❄️💪 A HUGE THANK YOU TO OUR MAINTENANCE & FACILITIES CREWS // Through heavy snowfall and challenging temperatures, our dedicated maintenance and facilities teams have been hard at work clearing parking lots, roads, and sidewalks to ensure our buildings and campuses are safe and ready for the return of our students and staff. They’ll be back at it again today for another round of winter weather cleanup.
Your long hours, teamwork, and commitment do not go unnoticed. We are incredibly grateful for all you do behind the scenes to keep our Wildcat community moving, no matter the weather. THANK YOU. 💜
📸 Special thanks to Erick Hoffman, Director of Facilities, for sharing these photos with us.
#WildcatPride
Your long hours, teamwork, and commitment do not go unnoticed. We are incredibly grateful for all you do behind the scenes to keep our Wildcat community moving, no matter the weather. THANK YOU. 💜
📸 Special thanks to Erick Hoffman, Director of Facilities, for sharing these photos with us.
#WildcatPride
❄️ CLOSED // All Mechanicsburg Area School District schools will be CLOSED tomorrow, Tuesday, January 27, 2026. This will be a traditional snow day with no makeup day needed.
Our Facilities Department and local municipalities did an amazing job today, as they worked tirelessly to clear roads, sidewalks, and parking lots throughout the district. Unfortunately, there are still a few trouble spots out there that we'll hopefully see cleared up tomorrow.
Stay safe, Wildcats!
Our Facilities Department and local municipalities did an amazing job today, as they worked tirelessly to clear roads, sidewalks, and parking lots throughout the district. Unfortunately, there are still a few trouble spots out there that we'll hopefully see cleared up tomorrow.
Stay safe, Wildcats!
❄️ WEATHER ALERT // Mechanicsburg Area School District will be CLOSED on Monday, January 26, 2026. This will be a traditional snow day with no makeup day needed. We will continue to monitor forecasts and road conditions for Tuesday and will communicate with staff and families if there is a need to alter the schedule for the day.
💙 Please help us give a special shoutout to our in-house maintenance crews and all crews across our municipalities who are working tirelessly to keep our roads clear and safe.
Stay warm, dry, and safe, Wildcats!
📸 Special thanks to Music/Vocals Teacher Gordon Kaslusky for capturing this picturesque moment at Kindergarten Academy.
#WildcatPride
💙 Please help us give a special shoutout to our in-house maintenance crews and all crews across our municipalities who are working tirelessly to keep our roads clear and safe.
Stay warm, dry, and safe, Wildcats!
📸 Special thanks to Music/Vocals Teacher Gordon Kaslusky for capturing this picturesque moment at Kindergarten Academy.
#WildcatPride
