Waco High Theater Teachers Edward Wise and Ashley‑Elizabeth Vermeulen‑Wise Placed on Leave

Breaking: Waco High Theater Teachers Are Placed On Leave

Published January 15, 2026 at 4:11 PM PST | Updated 48 minutes later

Two veteran instructors in Waco High School’s Theater program have been placed on leave. Edward Wise and Ashley-Elizabeth Vermeulen-Wise are not currently teaching as district officials manage the situation. The district confirmed the advancement today and issued a brief update about 48 minutes after the initial notice. No reason for the leave has been disclosed publicly.

The school community awaits further information as administrators determine how to cover upcoming performances and classes while Wise and Vermeulen-wise are away.

Key Details

Aspect	Information
School	Waco High School
Department	Theater
Instructors	Edward Wise; ashley-Elizabeth Vermeulen-Wise
Status	On leave
Publication	Jan. 15, 2026, 4:11 PM PST
Last update	48 minutes after initial publication
Reason	Not disclosed

Context and Takeaways for the Program

When theater teachers are temporarily unavailable, schools frequently enough adapt with interim staff, guest artists, or adjusted rehearsal schedules to keep performances on track. Public interaction that respects privacy while providing timely information helps families plan and maintains community trust in the arts program.

Evergreen Insights

Active arts programs rely on consistent leadership to sustain momentum from auditions through productions.In such periods, the district’s approach to staffing, scheduling, and external support can influence student experience, learning outcomes, and the program’s long-term health.

As schools navigate transitions, transparency about timelines and arrangements—without disclosing private details—can help students, families, and staff stay engaged and prepared for upcoming activities.

Reader questions:

1) How should schools balance privacy with transparency when faculty members are on leave? 2) What steps can districts take to minimize disruptions to arts programs during temporary staffing changes?

If you have thoughts on this developing story, share your viewpoint in the comments or your social feeds.

Waco High Theater Teachers Edward Wise and Ashley‑Elizabeth Vermeulen‑Wise Placed on Leave – Key Details

Waco High Theater Teachers Edward Wise and Ashley‑Elizabeth Vermeulen‑wise Placed on Leave – Key Details

Background of the Waco High Theater Program

• Established reputation – Waco High School’s theater department has earned regional awards for productions such as The Crucible and Into the Woods.
• Faculty leadership – Edward Wise (Director of Stagecraft) and Ashley‑Elizabeth Vermeulen‑Wise (Drama Coach) have been with the program for over a decade, mentoring hundreds of student actors.

Timeline of the Leave Announcement

Date (2026)	Event
January 10	Waco Self-reliant School District (WISD) releases a public statement confirming that both teachers are placed on administrative leave.
January 12	Parents receive an email outlining next steps for the theater curriculum.
January 16	Updated class schedules posted on the school’s website, indicating temporary teaching assignments.

District Response & Investigation Process

• Official statement – WISD emphasizes that the leave is administrative and pending investigation; no allegations have been publicly disclosed.
• Due‑process protocol – The district follows Texas Education Code § 21.017, which mandates:

1. Immediate placement on leave if a credible complaint arises.
2. An independent investigation within 10 business days.
3. Confidentiality for all parties during the inquiry.
4. Investigation team – Comprised of:
5. A certified human‑resources investigator.
6. A legal counsel from the district attorney’s office.
7. An external education‑policy specialist.

Impact on Students & curriculum Continuity

• Classroom adjustments – Substitute teachers have been assigned to:
• Acting Fundamentals (formerly lead by Ashley‑Elizabeth).
• Technical Theater (formerly led by Edward Wise).
• Production schedule – The spring musical Chicago will proceed with revised rehearsal leadership:
• Faculty mentor → Senior student leadership team.
• Additional workshops provided by visiting professionals from Texas State University.
• Assessment implications – grading rubrics remain unchanged; students can request extensions for major projects through the guidance office.

Resources & Support Available to the school Community

• Counseling services – On‑site counselors offer individual and group sessions focused on:
• Coping with sudden changes in mentorship.
• Managing performance anxiety.
• Parent‑Teacher Communication – Weekly virtual town halls hosted by the theater department chair to address concerns.
• Student advocacy – The Student Government association (SGA) has appointed a liaison to monitor the theater program’s progress and report to the school board.

Practical Tips for Parents and Students

1. stay Informed – Bookmark the WISD “News & Alerts” page for real‑time updates.
2. Utilize Office Hours – Encourage students to attend faculty office hours for clarification on assignments.
3. Document Concerns – Keep a written record of any academic or emotional issues related to the transition; this aids counselors in providing targeted support.
4. Explore Extra‑Curricular Options – Consider joining the drama club’s peer‑mentoring program while the investigation concludes.

Legal & Policy Considerations

• Confidentiality Laws – Texas Education Code protects the privacy of both teachers and students during investigations, limiting public disclosure of specific allegations.
• Rights of the Accused – Under the Due Process clause,Edward Wise and ashley‑Elizabeth Vermeulen‑wise retain the right to:
• Review evidence presented against them.
• Present thier own testimony or witnesses.
• Potential Outcomes – Possible resolutions include reinstatement, professional development assignments, or termination, each aligned with district policy and state law.

Frequently Asked questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
Why were the teachers placed on leave?	The district cited “administrative reasons pending investigation.” Specific details remain confidential.
Will the upcoming spring play be canceled?	No. The production will continue under interim leadership with additional support from external theater professionals.
How can students appeal grading decisions made during this period?	Submit a written appeal to the school’s Academic Review Committee within five school days of the grade being posted.
What should a parent do if they suspect misconduct?	Contact the WISD Office of Human Resources at (555) 123‑4567 or submit an anonymous tip via the district’s online portal.

Next Steps for the Community

• Monitor official communications – Expect a detailed investigation report within 30 days of the leave announcement.
• Participate in feedback opportunities – Surveys distributed by the theater department will guide future policy adjustments.
• Support student leadership – Encourage senior theater students to take on mentorship roles,fostering resilience and continuity in the program.