Fort Wayne Community Schools’ 11 middle schools and the Fort Wayne Virtual Academy are hosting 6th Grade Orientation events beginning April 7.

These events are designed to help fifth grade students and their families navigate the transition to middle school. Families will tour the school, explore course offerings and co-curricular programs and meet teachers and staff, while students will have the opportunity to register for the 2026–27 school year.

During the orientations, families will also learn how FWCS Schools of Success are enhancing the middle school experience through guaranteed experiences with outcomes that help guide students toward future career pathways.

Orientations will be held at each middle school:

•Northwood Middle School, Tuesday, April 7, 5:30–7 p.m.
•Towles New Tech, Thursday, April 9, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
•Jefferson Middle School, Tuesday, April 14, 5:30–7 p.m.
•Lakeside Middle School, Tuesday, April 21, 5:30–7 p.m.
•Miami Middle School, Tuesday, April 21, 5:30–7 p.m.
•Blackhawk Middle School, Wednesday, April 22, 5:30–7 p.m.
•Kekionga Middle School, Wednesday, April 22, 5:30–7 p.m.
•Memorial Park Middle School, Wednesday, April 22, 5:30–7 p.m.
•Portage Middle School, Wednesday, April 22, 5:30–7 p.m.
•Shawnee Middle School, Wednesday, April 22, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
•Lane Middle School, Tuesday, May 5, 5:30–7 p.m.
•Fort Wayne Virtual Academy, Tuesday, May 26, 5:30 p.m.

Families can get their young learners ready for school at Passport to Pre-K, hosted by Fort Wayne Community Schools from 5-7 p.m. Wed., March 11, at North Side High School, 475 E. State Blvd. 

Passport to Pre-K is a one-stop event where families can apply for FWCS’
fully accredited pre-K programs for children who will be 4 years old by
Aug. 1. Parents can learn about pre-K options, meet staff members, connect with community partners and get their questions answered. 

FWCS has full-day and half-day pre-K programs at neighborhood schools across the city. Registering early helps families learn more about their school and makes the transition to the classroom smoother for students. Through the Schools of Success, all FWCS students, including pre-K students, are provided with guaranteed learning experiences. 

Families should bring a smartphone (if available), two documents showing proof of residency, the student’s birth certificate and a parent’s photo ID. 

Not able to attend Passport to Pre-K? You can still get your child registered. Online registration for FWCS pre-K programs opens March 11. 

For more information about pre-K registration, call (260) 467-6360 or visit fwcs.info/PreK. 

The Fort Wayne Community Schools Adult and Continuing Education Department will honor more than 200 graduates who earned their diplomas in 2025. The graduation ceremony is at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 4, at North Side High School, 475 E. State Blvd. 

From Jan. 1-Dec. 31, 2025, these dedicated individuals successfully passed the High School Equivalency (HSE) Exam. Guest speakers include three graduates: 

Behya Luna Medina 
What started as a six-month trial period has become nearly five years. When Behya Luna Medina moved from Mexico to the United States, she left her extended family behind but gained a chance at a better life for her children, the opportunity to be closer to her husband's family, and a new chapter she never expected. Although Medina had already earned a marketing degree in Mexico, she decided to pursue English and an HSE diploma through the FWCS Adult Ed program. A mother of three, she enjoys crocheting bags and purses. Both staff and classmates are inspired by her positive attitude and her kindness toward others. 

Jordan Raymond 
Born in Jacksonville, Florida, Jordan Raymond’s early years were marked by a challenging educational journey. After relocating to Fort Wayne and with the support of the HSE staff, Raymond passed the HSE test just a few weeks after starting. He has since been accepted into Saint Francis University, where he plans to study theology. Raymond hopes his journey inspires others to believe in second chances and the power of commitment. 

Mitchell Henderson 
Despite numerous personal setbacks in her adolescence, including being a foster child and becoming a mother at 13, Mitchell Henderson's story is one of remarkable resilience. Her church family became her surrogate family, challenging her and cheering her on as she pursued her education. She shares that same joy with the children she teaches at Sunday School and treasures conversations with people of all ages. Henderson balanced single parenthood and a full-time job while attending HSE classes. She hopes her journey serves as proof that it’s never too late to become the best version of yourself. 

The Adult and Continuing Education Program serves adult students of all ages, providing educational opportunities that empower individuals to achieve their academic and career goals. 

Hundreds of students representing the future workforce of Northeast Indiana will compete in the upcoming SkillsUSA Regional Competition.

FWCS Career Academy programs including Advertising Design, Automotive, Construction Trades, Cosmetology, Computer Programming, Culinary Arts, Media Production and Welding are hosting competitions from 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, Jan. 31.

Construction competitions will take place at the Construction Trades facility, 125 Murray St.; Automotive competitions will take place at the Ivy Tech Steel Dynamics, Inc. Keith Busse Technology Center, 3701 Dean Dr.; Welding at the Local 166 Plumbers and Steamfitters Union Training Center, 2930 W. Ludwig Road; and Advertising Design at the University of Saint Francis School of Art, 2701 Spring St.

The top five performers in each category will earn a spot to compete at the SkillsUSA Indiana State Leadership and Skills Conference.

The public is invited to attend this free event.