News Release

LARWILL — The Whitko Community School Board of Trustees announced the appointment of three key staff members during its regular board meeting on Monday, July 21.

JD Maurer was named principal of Whitko Junior High School, Caleb Logan will serve as principal of Pierceton Elementary School, and Drew Benedict has been hired as the district’s new PowerSchool administrator and head varsity boys basketball coach.

Superintendent Dr. Amy Korus praised the staff’s willingness to adapt in response to the district’s evolving needs:
“When we talked about moving some administrators around and filling some gaps, knowing we needed to make some cuts this year, everyone jumped in with little questioning to do what the district needs. Thank you, to both of you for taking your roles.”

JD Maurer – Principal, Whitko Junior High School

Maurer, of Fort Wayne, transitions from his role as assistant principal at Whitko Junior Senior High School to lead grades 6–8 at the junior high.

He originally joined Whitko as a physical education teacher in 2021 and previously taught business at the high school in 2018-2019. A graduate of Angola High School 1999 and Trine University 2003, Maurer later earned a master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2015.

With a background in education, coaching, and business management, Maurer brings a well-rounded leadership style to the role.

“I have always admired and respected the hard work and dedication of our staff, which of course, includes our talented middle school team,” said Maurer. “I hope to bring a sense of identity to Whitko Junior High, and provide our students with a rigorous learning environment, accountability to rules and practices, and a safe, enjoyable atmosphere to flourish and grow as young adults and future leaders.”

Caleb Logan – Principal, Pierceton Elementary School

Logan steps into his new role following the resignation of former principal Christy Haupert. Previously serving as director of alternative services and assistant director of the Whitko Career Academy, Logan joined Whitko in 2023 and has also served as boys junior varsity basketball coach.

He previously held teaching and leadership roles at West Noble and Westview Junior Senior High Schools.

“I am excited to join the Pierceton Elementary community as principal,” said Logan. “I look forward to partnering with our dedicated staff, supportive families, and incredible students as we continue to build a positive and engaging learning environment.”

Drew Benedict – Data Specialist & Head Varsity Boys Basketball Coach

Benedict fills two positions following the retirement of Pam Baker and the resignation of Robert Warrick. A native of Whitley County, Benedict most recently worked as director of operations at Lincoln Memorial University’s DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine.

His experience includes leadership roles at the University of Missouri – Kansas City and coaching at Huntington University, where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

“I want to thank Dr. Korus, Barry Singrey, Mr. Buchanan, and the board. I am extremely grateful, extremely honored and very excited to get started,” said Benedict. “Whitley County is my home. I’m from this area, I know how important high school athletics are and how impactful they are. So I’m very excited to immerse myself in the Whitko community, the school corporation and the athletic department. I can’t wait to get started. Go, Wildcats.”