LCS Heads Back to School!
Launch the media gallery 1 playerHosting a “Par-Tee” on the first day of school, staff members welcomed back all Leigh Community School students in a school assembly on August 14, 2026 by driving golf carts through the high school gym!
This year's annual first day of school surprise was staff members driving golf carts decked out in Panther themed decorations. On each cart, a letter was drawn on its windshield to make up a motto associated with the school. “#BE THE BEST”
Before students began their first day, an open house was hosted on Wednesday August, 12 to kick off the start to another great school year. Students and parents were given the opportunity to meet their teachers, explore the school, and check out any materials for the year. This year, the school board prepared a burger meal for all attendees.
Panther athletics have also been working hard in practice preparing for the new sports season. With sports in action, the volleyball, football, softball, and girls’ golf teams are in full swing with upcoming games and meets!
There are also many new faces in the building among the staff, including Mrs. Kari Bazata, 4-6 Reading; Mr. Haden Held, Middle School/JH ELA and Writing; Mr. Connor Blum, Jr. High/Sr. High Math; Mrs. Ellie Haan, Agriculture Education; Mr. Izac Reifenrath, 4-6 Math; Mrs. Jaimie Blum, Kitchen; and Mrs. Katie Rieck, Paraprofessional.
Senior Wyatt Langhorst is definitely excited for the year, stating, “Oh gee willikers what a wonderful time, coming back to the building of learning for yet another year.”
“There’s nothing quite like the first day of school—the bright smiles, the excitement in the air, and the feeling that something special is about to begin,” said 7-12 Principal Andrew Faltys, He continued, “As I begin my fifth year at Leigh Community Schools, I couldn’t be more excited for another year with our students, staff, and the entire Panther Nation. Today is a fresh start, a new chapter, and another opportunity to grow, learn, and make a difference. Here’s to a great year ahead! Let’s make it our best one yet. Welcome back, Panther Nation! #BeTheBest”
Superintendent Mr. Cole Fischer is also excited for the new year ahead.
Fischer said, “Leigh Community Schools welcomes 345 PK-12 students to begin the new school year. We are also excited to welcome many new staff members to the LCS family. We are thrilled to have these new staff members joining our team. Each person brings unique talents and energy that will benefit our students and our school. We are excited to see the positive impact they will have in our classrooms and throughout the district.
“As the school year begins, Leigh Community Schools is looking forward to building on the successes of the past while embracing the future. The goal is always to provide students with a strong education and a supportive school community where they can be successful now and in their future. We will always honor our past and the people who have helped make Leigh Community Schools what it is today. At the same time, we are excited to look toward the future and begin this new chapter together. It is a new era for Leigh Community Schools and an exciting time to return to the Panthers.”