Lainey Longmeyer
Principal
Welcome to Washington Middle School! It is an honor to welcome you during this historic first year, as all of MPSD's seventh and eighth grade students come together under one roof for the first time. This milestone is about much more than a new building configuration; it marks the beginning of a new chapter where students will build lasting friendships, establish new traditions, and develop a shared identity as Ships before beginning high school.
At Washington, we are committed to developing effective communicators, creative problem solvers, and engaged community members who are prepared not only for high school but for life beyond the classroom. Our students are curious, resilient, and eager to grow, and our dedicated staff works each day to create meaningful learning experiences that inspire confidence, creativity, and collaboration.
Whether your child is passionate about the arts, STEM, athletics, service, or exploring new interests, we want every student to find a place where they feel connected and challenged to reach their full potential.
My hope is that every student and family feels welcomed, supported, and proud to be part of the Washington Middle School community. Together, we're building something extraordinary.
Leadership Philosophy
I believe every student can learn and achieve at high levels when they are supported by strong relationships, high expectations, and a collaborative school community.
Every decision I make is centered on what is best for students. I value open communication, meaningful partnerships with families, and using both data and relationships to guide decision-making. When educators, families, and students work together toward a shared vision, we create the conditions where every learner can thrive.
At Washington, we celebrate growth in all forms, academic achievement, character development, leadership, and social-emotional learning. My goal is to foster a school culture where every student feels known, valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.
My Role
As principal, I provide the instructional and operational leadership for Washington Middle School. I work closely with teachers, counselors, support staff, and families to ensure every student has access to a high-quality educational experience in a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment.
Families are encouraged to contact me regarding:
- Academic concerns or student progress
- Student support and school success
- Behavior or discipline concerns
- School policies and procedures
- Attendance or scheduling questions
- General school operations
I believe student success is built through strong partnerships between school and home, and I welcome conversations with families. Whether you have a question, concern, or success to celebrate, I encourage you to reach out.
About Me
I am proud to be a lifelong member of the Manitowoc Public School District community. I attended Monroe Elementary, Washington Junior High, and Lincoln High School, and the educators who supported me inspired my decision to dedicate my career to public education.
After earning my degree in Special Education from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, I returned to MPSD to teach at Lincoln High School before serving as Dean of Students and later Associate Principal. In 2026, I was honored to become Principal of Washington Middle School, where I have loved working with this energetic and inspiring age group.
Outside of school, my husband, Michael, is also a teacher and coach in MPSD. Together we're raising our growing family with plenty of Ships Pride and are excited to welcome our third child this fall. Serving this district is especially meaningful because it's not only where I work, it's where my family belongs.
