June 6th, 2014 – Metea Valley lost one of their own – beloved teacher and coach, Michael Wegrzyn. “He was a positive role model, and (he) was always smiling when I saw him in the hallways,” junior, Joel Nanni said.

At the homecoming game against East Aurora, the school made a tribute to the influential person. Faculty and family gathered onto the field at halftime to celebrate Mr. Wegs. Kate Wegerzyn received a signed football from the Varsity team and a framed photo of the lake that is now named after Wegs. They will be placing a plaque, on a rock, besides the dedicated lake. “Matt Long, the science department chair, recommended the renaming of the lake behind the school because Wegs would often take his classes out there. We wanted to show support of the family from the football family because he was at all our home games up in the press box helping us out.” Dean Adam West, said.

“Wegs was one of the few teachers who made it clear that he genuinely cared about every single one of his students. He was energetic and prepared and tried to engage everyone in different ways, because he really tried to know his students on a more personal level. He was a magnificent influence in my life and I miss him more than I could ever put into words.” Junior, Nikki Roberts reflects.

Michael ‘Wegs’ Wegrzyn personally impacted hundreds of kids. He was passionate about teaching, coaching, and being a husband and father to his kids and wife. His students will forever remember him as a devoted mentor – he will never be forgotten.

“(The tribute was) a heartfelt display where an amazing and truly committed teacher and coach was honored for all he did while he at Metea,” sophomore, Meghan King said.

By Megan Arnold