Administration

Welcome to the 2026-2027 School Year!

On behalf of the entire Cope staff, I would like to welcome all students to Cope Middle School, home of the Eagles! 

Cope offers a rigorous and comprehensive learning environment and we take pride in focusing on Equity and Inclusion through core academics, extracurricular programs, and a diverse offering of classes including AVID, ASB, WEB, Digital Storytelling, CSTEM, Theater, Art, Band, Orchestra, College and Career Exploration, and more!

Cope students and staff take pride in SOAR, our school wide program used to foster and promote a safe and positive school learning environment. SOAR enhances student learning by emphasizing high behavioral and academic expectations for all students to be Safe, Organized, Accountable, and Respectful while on campus, in the classroom, in the community, and while online.  We expect Cope students to SOAR in all they do!

We strive to have positive home-school relationships through consistent communication and parent involvement, with the additional support of Cope counselors, teachers and administrators.  For the most updated communication, please maintain an Aeries Parent Portal Account.

I have lived here in Redlands with my two sons for about 10 years and grew up not too far away in San Bernardino. I started in education as an elementary school counselor in 2012 and have since worked at all three levels - elementary, middle, and high school. I absolutely love getting to support students, staff, and families. 

I am passionate about helping others grow to reach their full potential. I firmly believe that this starts with creating a safe and positive learning environment on campus, and that this is done through a partnership between students, families, and staff. We each play an important role in this and it is by working together that we make our school community great.

I look forward to getting to know our Cope students and families and working together to EMPOWER every student to SOAR!  Go Eagles!

Wendy Caress

Phone: (909) 307-5420
Email: wendy_caress@redlands.k12.ca.us

Secretary: Sabrina Mercado

Greetings Cope Eagles families!

My name is Christopher McClung, and I’m thrilled to be joining the incredible team at Cope Middle School as your new Assistant Principal!

I began my teaching career in 2012 with a background in Arts, Media, and Entertainment through Career Technical Education (CTE), specializing in graphic design, animation, and video game design at the high school level. After several years in the classroom, I transitioned into curriculum development for my district, creating classroom and online CTE programs to expand access and engagement for students. I later served as the peer coach leader for new teachers in their first and second years, and as the Southern California Program Coordinator for CTE TEACH, a statewide initiative in partnership with the California Department of Education supporting induction for CTE educators across California.

I earned my Bachelor’s in Communication from California Baptist University in 2015 and completed my Master’s in Educational Leadership with an Administrative Credential from the University of Redlands in 2021, yes, all while raising kids and you can do it too!

Most recently, I served as the Assistant Principal at Mission Elementary School, where I had the joy of supporting young learners and contributing to a vibrant and nurturing school culture. Now, I’m incredibly excited to bring that same passion and dedication to Cope Middle School. With both siblings and children of my own who’ve attended Cope, this school already holds a special place in my heart. I look forward to building strong relationships, supporting student success, and contributing to the positive and thriving community that defines Cope. It’s truly an honor to be a Cope Eagle!

On a personal note, I’ve been joyously married to my amazing wife—my partner in life and education—since 2011. Together, we’re raising eight wonderful children (yes, we have a set of twins!). Both of us are educators: while I consider myself an education imagineer, she focuses on student mental health and wellness, bringing innovation and compassion to everything she does. As a family, we love spending quality time together—especially watching the MCU, Star Wars, the 49ers, and doing all things Disney.

 If you have any questions, ideas, or just want to chat about the latest Marvel movie, please feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to connect.

 Excelsior!

Christopher McClung

Email: christopher_mcclung@redlands.k12.ca.us