Wawasee Assistant Principal John Snyder is shown in a familiar place, leading a school assembly. He announced he will be retiring at the end of the school year. Photo provided by Wawasee Community School Corporation.

News Release

SYRACUSE — After 37 years of dedicated service as a basketball coach, teacher, and administrator, Wawasee High School Assistant Principal John Snyder has announced his retirement, closing a remarkable chapter in Indiana public education.

Throughout his career, Snyder served in various roles at Whitley County Consolidated Schools in Columbia City, Warsaw High School, Whitko Jr/Sr High School and Wawasee High School. His legacy is one of steady leadership, a deep commitment to school improvement, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every student.

“Looking back, I’m most proud of the progress we made in each school I had the privilege to serve,” said Snyder. “I’ve been fortunate to work alongside incredibly talented and caring teachers, and to witness countless students accomplish amazing things.”

Snyder’s career has been rooted in relationships. “I’ll miss working with extraordinary educators who shared a common vision,” he shared. “But most of all, I’ll miss the kids—the conversations, the celebrations and the laughs. Those moments have been the heart of my career.”

As he turns the page, Snyder is looking forward to time with his family. He and his wife, Reisa, a retired teacher and professor, plan to travel and check off a few bucket list items, including visiting every Major League Baseball stadium. Above all, he looks forward to supporting his grandchildren, Holden and Hadley, in all their endeavors. The Snyders’ daughter, Chelsea, and her husband, Marc, are raising their family with the same love of learning and life John and Reisa have modeled.

When asked what it has meant to be a Warrior, Snyder said, “I have loved my time at Wawasee and I’m grateful to finish my career here. This is a special place. I hope our community knows how deeply I cared for their children, that I tried my best to encourage them, to let them know I believed in them, and, hopefully, empowered them to pursue their dreams.”