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.

Fort Wayne Community Schools welcomes eighth and ninth graders to Freshman Orientation and Schools of Success Showcase.

During the Freshman Orientation, eighth-grade students will get a firsthand look at the Freshman Schools of Success and learn how FWCS is connecting core academic learning with real-world experiences. Students and their families will learn how today’s classes include developing essential skills, such as collaboration, communication, creativity and critical thinking. Students will also tour schools, meet teachers and explore clubs, sports and other co-curricular opportunities.

Families of ninth graders are encouraged to attend and learn more about the Schools of Success pathways prior to students selecting a pathway in January.
Students and families are invited to attend multiple events to make informed decisions. Each school will highlight its unique programs and opportunities.

Orientation and Schools of Success Showcase events:

•Fort Wayne Virtual Academy, Dec. 8, 5:30 p.m. (online)
•South Side High School, 3601 Calhoun St., Dec. 10, 5:30 p.m.
•North Side High School, 475 E. State Blvd., Dec. 16, 5 p.m.
•Snider High School, 4600 Fairlawn Pass, Dec. 17, 5:45 p.m.
•Northrop High School, 7001 Coldwater Road, Dec. 18, 5:30 p.m.
•Wayne High School, including New Tech Academy, 9100 Winchester Road, Jan. 7, 5:30 p.m.

Fort Wayne Community Schools is committed to transforming education to ensure students are ready for life after graduation, whether they enroll in higher education, enlist in the military or enter the workforce as an employee or entrepreneur.

North Side High School will host its 38th annual Christmas Party for Kids Surviving Cancer from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at North Side, 475 E. State Blvd. 

This year, 56 children from 17 families will come together for this special celebration. The kids will enjoy food, crafts, games and performances by North Side’s Dance 5, along with a visit from Santa Claus. 

The event is a partnership between North Side students and staff and Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana. Student groups adopt each family, carefully selecting and wrapping presents for every child in the family. They also raise money and gather donations from community partners to ensure the day is filled with warmth and joy. 

For nearly four decades, this event has offered families a chance to set aside their challenges and celebrate the season. 

Fort Wayne Community Schools will celebrate parent and caregiver involvement by honoring the invaluable contributions of families across the District. 

FWCS Community and Family Engagement will host the Champion of Change Awards ceremony from 5:30-7:15 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, at the Bill C. Anthis Center, 1200 S. Barr St. The award recognizes individuals whose extraordinary dedication has made a lasting impact on student success—both in the classroom and at home. The evening will include a special proclamation from Mayor Sharon Tucker, who will officially declare Parent Involvement Day in Fort Wayne. 

Schools throughout FWCS were invited to nominate two parents or caregivers from their communities to receive this recognition. The celebration shines a spotlight on families whose engagement strengthens the educational experience for all students and reinforces the vital role of family involvement in education.