🌟 Principal Spotlight 🌟
All month long we’ll be celebrating our amazing principals! First up is Mrs. Erlsten, principal of our littlest Tigers at the Primary. 🐾💙 Thank you for your leadership, kindness, and dedication to our students each and every day! 👏🍎
All month long we’ll be celebrating our amazing principals! First up is Mrs. Erlsten, principal of our littlest Tigers at the Primary. 🐾💙 Thank you for your leadership, kindness, and dedication to our students each and every day! 👏🍎
🌟 Student Spotlight: Lillyana 🌟
We are so proud of Lillyana, a 5th grader at GIS! She recently auditioned for the All-State Children’s Chorus and was selected to perform at the Ohio Music Education Association Professional Development Conference this January. This is an incredible honor—and even more impressive, it marks her second year in a row earning this prestigious invitation. 🎶👏
Way to go, Lillyana! Your hard work and talent continue to shine! 💙🧡 #couragetoclimb #tigerpride
We are so proud of Lillyana, a 5th grader at GIS! She recently auditioned for the All-State Children’s Chorus and was selected to perform at the Ohio Music Education Association Professional Development Conference this January. This is an incredible honor—and even more impressive, it marks her second year in a row earning this prestigious invitation. 🎶👏
Way to go, Lillyana! Your hard work and talent continue to shine! 💙🧡 #couragetoclimb #tigerpride
💙🧹 Happy School Custodial Worker Appreciation Day! 🧹💙
To our custodial team: thank you for your dedication, your attention to detail, and the care you put into every corner of our buildings. We appreciate you more than words can say — you truly are the heartbeat of our schools! 🐯✨
To our custodial team: thank you for your dedication, your attention to detail, and the care you put into every corner of our buildings. We appreciate you more than words can say — you truly are the heartbeat of our schools! 🐯✨
💙🧡 October is National Principals Month, and we are proud to celebrate the outstanding leadership at Galion High School! Our principals work tirelessly to support students, staff, and families. Thank you for the countless ways you inspire, guide, and make a difference every single day. We are grateful for your dedication and proud to call you part of the Tiger family! 🐾 #ThankAPrincipal #NationalPrincipalsMonth #GalionTigers
✨ Want to make a difference in our schools? ✨
Now’s your chance to be part of the PTA!
Join us for our first meeting of the year:
📅 Tuesday, October 8th
🕔 5:00 PM
📍 Primary School Cafeteria
Your voice matters—come be a part of the team supporting our students, teachers, and school community!
Now’s your chance to be part of the PTA!
Join us for our first meeting of the year:
📅 Tuesday, October 8th
🕔 5:00 PM
📍 Primary School Cafeteria
Your voice matters—come be a part of the team supporting our students, teachers, and school community!
Issue 7 is a Renewal Levy that is currently on the books and is NOT a new tax. You can learn more about the renewal levy by visiting the Renewal Levy Frequently Asked Questions located at galionschools.org/levyfacts
🇺🇸 Civil Air Patrol Spotlight
This past weekend, our CAP program proudly represented Galion at the Oktoberfest Parade! We are so proud of these dedicated Middle School and High School students for showcasing their leadership, discipline, and community spirit. 💙🧡
Way to go, Tigers! 👏
This past weekend, our CAP program proudly represented Galion at the Oktoberfest Parade! We are so proud of these dedicated Middle School and High School students for showcasing their leadership, discipline, and community spirit. 💙🧡
Way to go, Tigers! 👏
Student Spotlight!!
We are thrilled to celebrate Cameron Fullen!!
We are thrilled to celebrate Cameron Fullen!!
Hall of Fame
Mr. Timothy Weiskopf
Distinguished Educator
Timothy Weiskopf, a proud graduate of Washington High School in Massillon, Ohio (Class of 1971), earned his B.A. from Miami University in 1975. That same year, he began his teaching career at Galion High School, where he dedicated 36 years to teaching English and Psychology before retiring in 2011.
Throughout his career, Mr. Weiskopf served in many leadership roles beyond the classroom. He was adviser and co-adviser of the National Honor Society for 20 years, Mock Trial adviser for 25 years, and adviser to HI-Y, where he helped students run football concessions, support the Special Olympics, and participate in the Youth in Government Program in Columbus.
His commitment to education and service continues today. He is a trustee and vice president of the Galion Community Education Foundation and also serves on the Board of Trustees for the Galion Public Library.
Outside of his service and educational work, Mr. Weiskopf enjoys tennis, daily walks, classic R&B and soul music, and reading. He lives by Emerson’s philosophy of self-reliance: “Keep with perfect sweetness the independence of solitude.”
When asked what advice he would share with future generations of Galion students, he encourages:
“Strive to know yourself and celebrate your individuality.”
Mr. Timothy Weiskopf
Distinguished Educator
Timothy Weiskopf, a proud graduate of Washington High School in Massillon, Ohio (Class of 1971), earned his B.A. from Miami University in 1975. That same year, he began his teaching career at Galion High School, where he dedicated 36 years to teaching English and Psychology before retiring in 2011.
Throughout his career, Mr. Weiskopf served in many leadership roles beyond the classroom. He was adviser and co-adviser of the National Honor Society for 20 years, Mock Trial adviser for 25 years, and adviser to HI-Y, where he helped students run football concessions, support the Special Olympics, and participate in the Youth in Government Program in Columbus.
His commitment to education and service continues today. He is a trustee and vice president of the Galion Community Education Foundation and also serves on the Board of Trustees for the Galion Public Library.
Outside of his service and educational work, Mr. Weiskopf enjoys tennis, daily walks, classic R&B and soul music, and reading. He lives by Emerson’s philosophy of self-reliance: “Keep with perfect sweetness the independence of solitude.”
When asked what advice he would share with future generations of Galion students, he encourages:
“Strive to know yourself and celebrate your individuality.”
✨ Alumni Spotlight ✨
Alinda Dickinson Wasner, Class of 1963
Alinda Dickinson Wasner dedicated 37 years to Michigan public schools, serving as a high school English teacher, library media specialist, adjunct professor at the University of Detroit Mercy and Mott Community College, and as Public Relations Director for Detroit Public Schools. Twice named Teacher of the Year at Detroit Henry Ford High School, she left a lasting mark on both her students and colleagues.
Beyond education, Alinda is celebrated as one of Detroit’s foremost poets. Her work has appeared in more than 80 journals and anthologies, and she is the author of four books, including Still Burning (2015), The Day Sky (2024), and chapbooks Kissing the Icons (2013) and When You Don’t Know Who You Are (2016). A forthcoming collection, Heart Houdini, will be published in 2026 by May Apple Press. Her poetry has been described as “stunning, stark and deeply felt,” exploring identity, memory, and resilience.
Her literary excellence has been recognized with awards such as the Chicago Poetry Center Juried Award, a Prague Writer’s Fellowship, and second place in Ireland’s International Poetry Prize. Most recently, she was honored in the Arts category at Detroit’s Next Chapter 2025 Awards. The Detroit Public Library is currently archiving more than 5,000 of her poems.
In addition to her professional and creative achievements, Alinda has long been an advocate for peace and justice. She has volunteered with Michigan Interfaith Action and Interfaith Impact, serving as president of both, and has supported civil rights and women’s health organizations for decades.
You can explore her work at TheStarvingPoet.com or view a video presentation of her poetry here
.
Alinda Dickinson Wasner, Class of 1963
Alinda Dickinson Wasner dedicated 37 years to Michigan public schools, serving as a high school English teacher, library media specialist, adjunct professor at the University of Detroit Mercy and Mott Community College, and as Public Relations Director for Detroit Public Schools. Twice named Teacher of the Year at Detroit Henry Ford High School, she left a lasting mark on both her students and colleagues.
Beyond education, Alinda is celebrated as one of Detroit’s foremost poets. Her work has appeared in more than 80 journals and anthologies, and she is the author of four books, including Still Burning (2015), The Day Sky (2024), and chapbooks Kissing the Icons (2013) and When You Don’t Know Who You Are (2016). A forthcoming collection, Heart Houdini, will be published in 2026 by May Apple Press. Her poetry has been described as “stunning, stark and deeply felt,” exploring identity, memory, and resilience.
Her literary excellence has been recognized with awards such as the Chicago Poetry Center Juried Award, a Prague Writer’s Fellowship, and second place in Ireland’s International Poetry Prize. Most recently, she was honored in the Arts category at Detroit’s Next Chapter 2025 Awards. The Detroit Public Library is currently archiving more than 5,000 of her poems.
In addition to her professional and creative achievements, Alinda has long been an advocate for peace and justice. She has volunteered with Michigan Interfaith Action and Interfaith Impact, serving as president of both, and has supported civil rights and women’s health organizations for decades.
You can explore her work at TheStarvingPoet.com or view a video presentation of her poetry here
.
🎉 The PreK fundraiser is LIVE! 🎉 Support our youngest Tigers and help make a difference. 🐾💙 https://galionprek2025.itemorder.com/shop/category/441624/
Alumni Spotlight: MR. MICHAEL A. EVANS, Class of 1978
Michael “Mike” Evans, a 1978 graduate of Galion High School, earned varsity letters in football, baseball, and basketball. Following graduation, he attended Morehead State University, where he earned a degree in Business Administration, and later completed his Master of Business Administration at the University of Toledo. As part of his studies, Mike also completed an international internship in Mexico with a focus on International Business—an experience that helped shape his successful career in operations and supply chain management.
Mike spent more than 40 years in the food processing industry, specializing in operations and supply chain leadership. His career included roles with Maumee Equipment Company/Thermal Transmissions, Campbell’s Soup Company, Pillsbury, and Bellisio Foods, where he continues to serve today as Advisor to the CEO and Board while also working as a Food Manufacturing and Supply Consultant.
His work has been recognized with numerous honors, including Best in Class Safety Processes from the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, Processor of the Year from Frozen Food Magazine, and the CP Foods Senior Chairman’s Award of Excellence for Technology and Development.
Beyond his professional career, Mike has been deeply involved in his community of Jackson, Ohio. He has coached youth football, served in leadership roles with the Jackson Area YMCA and the Jackson Area Family Activity Center, and has been an active member of local boards and committees supporting athletics, youth programs, and scholarships. In recognition of his community impact, he received the Leadership Excellence Award from the Jackson County Economic Development Partnership.
Mike and his wife, Molly, are the proud parents of four children—Lana, Jackie, Jarett, and Reid—and grandparents to five grandchildren: Archer, Annalee, Everett, Wrenyn, and Kristopher.
We are proud to call Mike on of ours!
Michael “Mike” Evans, a 1978 graduate of Galion High School, earned varsity letters in football, baseball, and basketball. Following graduation, he attended Morehead State University, where he earned a degree in Business Administration, and later completed his Master of Business Administration at the University of Toledo. As part of his studies, Mike also completed an international internship in Mexico with a focus on International Business—an experience that helped shape his successful career in operations and supply chain management.
Mike spent more than 40 years in the food processing industry, specializing in operations and supply chain leadership. His career included roles with Maumee Equipment Company/Thermal Transmissions, Campbell’s Soup Company, Pillsbury, and Bellisio Foods, where he continues to serve today as Advisor to the CEO and Board while also working as a Food Manufacturing and Supply Consultant.
His work has been recognized with numerous honors, including Best in Class Safety Processes from the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, Processor of the Year from Frozen Food Magazine, and the CP Foods Senior Chairman’s Award of Excellence for Technology and Development.
Beyond his professional career, Mike has been deeply involved in his community of Jackson, Ohio. He has coached youth football, served in leadership roles with the Jackson Area YMCA and the Jackson Area Family Activity Center, and has been an active member of local boards and committees supporting athletics, youth programs, and scholarships. In recognition of his community impact, he received the Leadership Excellence Award from the Jackson County Economic Development Partnership.
Mike and his wife, Molly, are the proud parents of four children—Lana, Jackie, Jarett, and Reid—and grandparents to five grandchildren: Archer, Annalee, Everett, Wrenyn, and Kristopher.
We are proud to call Mike on of ours!
⏰ Did You Know?
Being tardy doesn’t just mean being late—it actually adds up to your overall hours missed in a school year! Every minute matters when it comes to learning. 📚✨
Let’s make every day—and every minute—count! 💙🧡 #AttendanceMatters #GalionTigers
Being tardy doesn’t just mean being late—it actually adds up to your overall hours missed in a school year! Every minute matters when it comes to learning. 📚✨
Let’s make every day—and every minute—count! 💙🧡 #AttendanceMatters #GalionTigers
🚌 Staff Spotlight: Mr. Brett Strine – Bus 18 🚌
If you ride Bus 18, you know how much the kids love Mr. Strine! Brett goes above and beyond to make every student feel safe, welcome, and cared for on their ride to and from school. His kindness and positive attitude make a big difference in our students’ day 💙🧡
Thank you, Mr. Strine, for the way you serve our students and families every single day!
If you ride Bus 18, you know how much the kids love Mr. Strine! Brett goes above and beyond to make every student feel safe, welcome, and cared for on their ride to and from school. His kindness and positive attitude make a big difference in our students’ day 💙🧡
Thank you, Mr. Strine, for the way you serve our students and families every single day!
🌟 Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Sandra K. Powell, Class of 1972 🌟
Educator. Community leader. Author. Lifelong learner. These are just a few of the many hats Dr. Sandra K. Powell has worn throughout her career—and she’s left an impact in every role.
After graduating from Galion High School in 1972, Sandra earned her B.S. and M.Ed. from Bowling Green State University and later her Ed.D. from Lehigh University. Her path in education began in the classroom, teaching in South Carolina, New Jersey, and right here in Galion.
Her journey then took her to Pennsylvania, where she led Newspapers in Education programs, developed curriculum, and trained literacy volunteers. She later served as School/Community Relations Director for the Bucks County Intermediate Unit, helping guide communications and strategic planning for schools across the state.
In 1996, Sandra returned home to Galion, serving as Principal of Dawsett Elementary before becoming Assistant Superintendent and later Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Federal Programs for Galion City Schools. Even after her retirement in 2015, her commitment to education continued as a Curriculum Consultant until 2021.
Beyond her professional work, Sandra has given countless hours of service to her community. She currently serves as Chair of the Galion Community Foundation and is active with the Northwest Ohio Association of the United Church of Christ and Galion First United Church of Christ. Her leadership and service have been recognized throughout her career, including receiving the Lower Bucks County Chamber of Commerce’s SITAWE Award.
Today, Sandra and her husband, Mark, enjoy traveling and spending time with family. They are especially proud of their sons—Matt (and his wife Kate) of Clintonville, OH, and Eric, who is currently serving at Fort Belvoir, VA.
We are proud to shine a spotlight on Dr. Sandra K. Powell, a Galion Tiger who continues to make a difference in education and in her community. 💙🧡
Educator. Community leader. Author. Lifelong learner. These are just a few of the many hats Dr. Sandra K. Powell has worn throughout her career—and she’s left an impact in every role.
After graduating from Galion High School in 1972, Sandra earned her B.S. and M.Ed. from Bowling Green State University and later her Ed.D. from Lehigh University. Her path in education began in the classroom, teaching in South Carolina, New Jersey, and right here in Galion.
Her journey then took her to Pennsylvania, where she led Newspapers in Education programs, developed curriculum, and trained literacy volunteers. She later served as School/Community Relations Director for the Bucks County Intermediate Unit, helping guide communications and strategic planning for schools across the state.
In 1996, Sandra returned home to Galion, serving as Principal of Dawsett Elementary before becoming Assistant Superintendent and later Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Federal Programs for Galion City Schools. Even after her retirement in 2015, her commitment to education continued as a Curriculum Consultant until 2021.
Beyond her professional work, Sandra has given countless hours of service to her community. She currently serves as Chair of the Galion Community Foundation and is active with the Northwest Ohio Association of the United Church of Christ and Galion First United Church of Christ. Her leadership and service have been recognized throughout her career, including receiving the Lower Bucks County Chamber of Commerce’s SITAWE Award.
Today, Sandra and her husband, Mark, enjoy traveling and spending time with family. They are especially proud of their sons—Matt (and his wife Kate) of Clintonville, OH, and Eric, who is currently serving at Fort Belvoir, VA.
We are proud to shine a spotlight on Dr. Sandra K. Powell, a Galion Tiger who continues to make a difference in education and in her community. 💙🧡
Charles “Chuck” Neal — Class of 1970
Charles “Chuck” Neal, son of Charles and Ruth Neal, is a proud 1970 graduate of Galion High School. During his time at GHS, Chuck excelled both in the classroom and on the athletic field. He served as a class officer, attended Buckeye Boys State, was a member of the National Honor Society, and became the first recipient of the prestigious William F. Unckrich Scholarship.
Athletically, Chuck earned eight varsity letters—three in football, two in basketball, and three in baseball. As a senior, he captained both the football and baseball teams, earning Honorable Mention All-NOL honors as a defensive back and First Team All-NOL honors as a shortstop. His leadership and skill were recognized with the coveted GHS Athletic Award Plaque.
After graduation, Chuck pursued higher education, earning a B.S. in Education from The Ohio State University and an M.A. in Education from Bowling Green State University. Now celebrating his 52nd year in education, he has served students with distinction at Colonel Crawford Schools (11 years), Galion High School (25 years), and Plymouth High School (16 years) as both a teacher and school counselor.
Chuck’s impact extended far beyond the classroom through his coaching career. Over 33 years of varsity football, he guided teams to four NCC championships and three NOL championships, while also coaching basketball, track, and softball. His dedication to students earned him the Martha Holding Jennings Award in 1988–1989, recognizing his excellence in teaching and counseling.
Family has always been at the heart of Chuck’s life. He and his wife, Maureen, have been married for 40 years and raised three children: Eric, Amy, and Lauren (Neal) McCray, who is married to her husband Chad. Chuck is a proud grandfather to Mackenzie and Nathaniel. He also celebrates the love and support of his siblings: Linda; Pam Hayes and her husband Dan; and Gary and his wife Brenda.
Reflecting on his journey, Chuck expresses deep gratitude for the friends, mentors, colleagues, and—most importantly—the students who have shaped his life. He takes the greatest pride in seeing the accomplishments and successes of the young people he has taught, counseled, and coached.
His advice to today’s students is simple yet powerful:
Commit to the Task. Maintain a Positive Attitude. Live with No Regrets.
Charles “Chuck” Neal, son of Charles and Ruth Neal, is a proud 1970 graduate of Galion High School. During his time at GHS, Chuck excelled both in the classroom and on the athletic field. He served as a class officer, attended Buckeye Boys State, was a member of the National Honor Society, and became the first recipient of the prestigious William F. Unckrich Scholarship.
Athletically, Chuck earned eight varsity letters—three in football, two in basketball, and three in baseball. As a senior, he captained both the football and baseball teams, earning Honorable Mention All-NOL honors as a defensive back and First Team All-NOL honors as a shortstop. His leadership and skill were recognized with the coveted GHS Athletic Award Plaque.
After graduation, Chuck pursued higher education, earning a B.S. in Education from The Ohio State University and an M.A. in Education from Bowling Green State University. Now celebrating his 52nd year in education, he has served students with distinction at Colonel Crawford Schools (11 years), Galion High School (25 years), and Plymouth High School (16 years) as both a teacher and school counselor.
Chuck’s impact extended far beyond the classroom through his coaching career. Over 33 years of varsity football, he guided teams to four NCC championships and three NOL championships, while also coaching basketball, track, and softball. His dedication to students earned him the Martha Holding Jennings Award in 1988–1989, recognizing his excellence in teaching and counseling.
Family has always been at the heart of Chuck’s life. He and his wife, Maureen, have been married for 40 years and raised three children: Eric, Amy, and Lauren (Neal) McCray, who is married to her husband Chad. Chuck is a proud grandfather to Mackenzie and Nathaniel. He also celebrates the love and support of his siblings: Linda; Pam Hayes and her husband Dan; and Gary and his wife Brenda.
Reflecting on his journey, Chuck expresses deep gratitude for the friends, mentors, colleagues, and—most importantly—the students who have shaped his life. He takes the greatest pride in seeing the accomplishments and successes of the young people he has taught, counseled, and coached.
His advice to today’s students is simple yet powerful:
Commit to the Task. Maintain a Positive Attitude. Live with No Regrets.
🧡 Galion Schools Clothes Closets – Donations Needed 🧡
Our school Clothes Closets help students in need stay comfortable, confident, and ready to learn. We are currently looking for new or gently used items in the following sizes:📍 Donations can be dropped off at any Galion City Schools office during school hours.
💙 Thank you for helping us support our students and keep them warm, comfortable, and ready to succeed!
Our school Clothes Closets help students in need stay comfortable, confident, and ready to learn. We are currently looking for new or gently used items in the following sizes:📍 Donations can be dropped off at any Galion City Schools office during school hours.
💙 Thank you for helping us support our students and keep them warm, comfortable, and ready to succeed!
Galion Alumni Spotlight – Charles “Chuck” Barnett, Jr. (Class of 1975)
We are proud to recognize Galion alumnus Charles “Chuck” Barnett, Jr., who graduated from Galion High School in 1975 and recently made a generous donation of his book, Traveler’s Guide to Ship Museums, to our library.
During his time at GHS, Chuck was active in Cross Country, Wrestling, Track and Field, Senior Choir, Boys Glee Club, and the Drama Department. After graduation, he went on to attend The Ohio State University, where he earned a B.S. in Business Administration (1979) and participated in Naval ROTC. He was commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy Supply Corps, serving from 1979–1985. His service included time aboard the USS Detroit (AOE-4) and the USS South Carolina (CGN-37), as well as at the Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC), where he continued his career until his retirement in 2018.
Chuck also continued his education, earning an A.S. in Computer Science from Columbus State Community College (1986) and an M.B.A. from Central Michigan University (1992).
When asked what advice he would share with today’s students, Chuck said:
👉 “Set your goals and work toward them. Additionally, find a job you love and you will never work a day in your life.”
We are grateful for Chuck’s generosity and proud to call him a Galion Tiger! You can find your own copy of his book on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.
We are proud to recognize Galion alumnus Charles “Chuck” Barnett, Jr., who graduated from Galion High School in 1975 and recently made a generous donation of his book, Traveler’s Guide to Ship Museums, to our library.
During his time at GHS, Chuck was active in Cross Country, Wrestling, Track and Field, Senior Choir, Boys Glee Club, and the Drama Department. After graduation, he went on to attend The Ohio State University, where he earned a B.S. in Business Administration (1979) and participated in Naval ROTC. He was commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy Supply Corps, serving from 1979–1985. His service included time aboard the USS Detroit (AOE-4) and the USS South Carolina (CGN-37), as well as at the Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC), where he continued his career until his retirement in 2018.
Chuck also continued his education, earning an A.S. in Computer Science from Columbus State Community College (1986) and an M.B.A. from Central Michigan University (1992).
When asked what advice he would share with today’s students, Chuck said:
👉 “Set your goals and work toward them. Additionally, find a job you love and you will never work a day in your life.”
We are grateful for Chuck’s generosity and proud to call him a Galion Tiger! You can find your own copy of his book on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.
Bus 18 will now be dropping students off in bus 2. Sorry for the short notice, it is having mechanical issues.
“Thank you to the Gridiron Club for their generous donation toward new football jerseys and wrestling mats! Your continued support means so much to our athletes and helps them take pride in representing Galion. We are grateful for all you do for our teams and community!”
