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This is just a reminder that there is no summer school next week - Monday June 30th - Thursday July
This is just a reminder that there is no summer school next week - Monday June 30th - Thursday July 3rd.
Enjoy your week off and we look forward to seeing you for our final week of summer school on Monday July 7th.
Please note that our offices are closed next week as well.
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Les recordamos que no habrá clases de verano la próxima semana, del lunes 30 de junio al jueves 3 de julio.
Disfruten de su semana libre y los esperamos en nuestra última semana de verano el lunes 7 de julio.
Por favor tengan en cuenta que nuestras oficinas también estarán cerradas la próxima semana.
4th Quarter Honor Roll
The Johnson Creek School District announces its honor roll for the 4th Quarter of the 2024-25 school
The Johnson Creek School District announces its honor roll for the 4th Quarter of the 2024-25 school year. Honor Roll is 3.00-3.49 and High Honor Roll is 3.5-4.00. Those students with (*) after their name indicates they achieved a 4.00 grade point average for this quarter.
HIGH HONOR ROLL
Seniors
Molly Altreuter*, Madilyn Brigowatz, Maria Burke*, Molly Burke, Mary Colon, Hailey Fincutter*, Natalie Frey, Tanner Herman*, Gonzalo Hernandez, Zachary Holland, Rylee Hucke, Kiya Imig*, Briar Klemolin, Dameon Klingman, Alan Mares, Dominique Patterson-Petty, Cohen Schmidt, Eli Smith, Carson Vaughn, Alexander Vondra, Hailee Walk*, Ryan Wildes
Juniors
Madeline Bennett*, Cole Boehm, Taylor Buglass, Evan Chowanec, Brady Fincutter, Colton Granzow, Francisco Gutierrez, Luke Hartz, Ryder Kerttula*, Wyatt Kwarciany*, Evan Malueg, Gabriella Marose, Madilynn Marose, Zoe Moser, Ciena Ritter, Charlize Sanchez, Maverick Weissmann, Jason Wildes*, Logan Zerbe
Sophomores
Marlie Benz, Kaitlin Butler, Kimora Carris, Annie Chau, Makayla Flynn, Mckinsey Goers, Rowan Hackbarth, Jonathan Kamuchey, Kash Lang, Sophia Le*, Evelyn Lira Esteves*, Lauren Nadboralski*, Kevin Orona Amaya, Anna Page, Hailey Penna*, Margaret Rouhoff*, Greta Sixel*, Duncan Thomas, Addison Vaughn*, Benjamin Wagner, Hayden Wagner, Stuart Wenzel, Lydia Wetzel, Cambrya Wollet
Freshmen
Keira Bakken, Connor Bennett, Kira Boehm, Ethan Broich, Maxwell Chowanec, Ada Clouse, Lia Constable*, Kiara Dach, Bella Estrada, Olivia Frey, Avril Gutierrez-Flores, Michael Heinrich, Elizabeth Lapp, Sophie Morris, Hazel Moulding*, Josie Salmieri, Imogen Scheiber, Kennrich Siewert*, Paige Swanson, Karli Weller*, Sariah Witterholt*
HONOR ROLL
Seniors
Gabriel Rodriguez, Charles Rouhoff, Mason Weisnicht, Ellis Wilder
Juniors
Melanie Ayala, Kaylie Brady, Jalen Carlson, Julius Cheaney, Owen Pernat, Aiden Smith, Trent Uttech-Myers, Madison Wiedenhoeft, Ayden Yang
Sophomores
Austin Bartelt, Brooklynn Dittmann-Granzow, Kace Freimund, Collin Hucke, Carlos Martinez, Cael Murfield, Nolan Murray, Josh West, Adam Whitehouse
Trailways South Conference Academic Banquet Highlights Last night, Johnson Creek had the honor
Trailways South Conference Academic Banquet Highlights
Last night, Johnson Creek had the honor of hosting the Trailways South Conference Academic Banquet, where we celebrated the outstanding academic accomplishments of students from across the conference.
We are incredibly proud to recognize our eight Summa Cum Laude students and the significant educators who have made a lasting impact on their academic journeys:
Ryan Wildes – Mr. Burke
Anthony Van Dyck – Mr. Burke
Maria Burke – Mr. Burke
Kiya Imig – Mr. Perucco
Molly Burke – Mr. Burke
Madilyn Brigowatz – Mrs. Morris
Hailey Fincutter – Mrs. Morris
Carson Vaughn – Dr. Schmitthenner
Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence inspire us all. Congratulations to these exceptional students and the educators who helped guide them!
Johnson Creek Science Olympiad Team Represents with Pride at UW-Stout
The Johnson Creek Science Olympiad team proudly competed at the UW-Stout invitational this past
The Johnson Creek Science Olympiad team proudly competed at the UW-Stout invitational this past weekend, demonstrating exceptional dedication and teamwork.
We are pleased to share that our team — Madi Bennett, Ryder Kertulla, Evan Chowanec, Jason Wildes, Lauren Nadboralski, Hailey Penna, Greta Sixel, Bella Marose, Francisco Gutierrez, Addison Vaughn, Brooke Wilke, Sophia Le, and Maggie Rouhoff — achieved commendable results in a highly competitive field.
As a team, Johnson Creek placed 14th out of 28 small schools and 28th out of 60 schools overall. This accomplishment is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our students.
We would also like to recognize the outstanding individual and partner achievements:
🥈 2nd Place (Silver) in Fossils: Madi Bennett and Francisco Gutierrez
🥉 3rd Place (Bronze) in Code Analysis: Evan Chowanec and Ryder Kertulla
🥉 3rd Place (Bronze) in Microbe Mission: Ryder Kertulla and Jason Wildes
🌲 5th Place in Forestry: Madi Bennett and Bella Marose
Our sincerest thanks go to Anna Bennett and Ms. Vodenlich for their invaluable support as chaperones, ensuring the students had a positive and safe experience throughout the competition.
We extend our congratulations to all team members for their dedication, sportsmanship, and for representing Johnson Creek with pride and excellence.
Bluejay Update - Math Meet
We are proud to announce that our Math Team has achieved 1st place at the recent conference meet!
We are proud to announce that our Math Team has achieved 1st place at the recent conference meet! This remarkable accomplishment reflects their dedication, teamwork, and exceptional mathematical skills.
In a special interview, Mr. Gruen speaks with team members Sophia, Lauren, and Kenny as they discuss their experience, preparation, and the keys to their success.
Johnson Creek School District Exceeds Expectations In a remarkable achievement highlighting the
Johnson Creek School District Exceeds Expectations
In a remarkable achievement highlighting the district’s commitment to academic excellence, the Johnson Creek School District has received an excellent rating on the state’s annual report card, moving up to the "Exceeds Expectations" category. This marks a significant milestone for the district, which has consistently worked to improve student outcomes across all grade levels.
The state report card, which evaluates public school districts on a range of academic and growth metrics, revealed that Johnson Creek is surpassing state expectations and excelling in areas like 8th-grade math proficiency and teacher effectiveness. Johnson Creek’s score ranks third when compared to ten area school districts and second in the eighteen-district Trailways Conference (not all districts receive a score within the conference).
A Leap to Excellence
The district's advancement to the "Exceeds Expectations" category comes after years of strategic improvements, including investments in teacher development, curriculum updates, and enhanced student support systems. District leaders say the jump in rankings reflects both hard work and a sustained focus on academic rigor.
“We are incredibly proud of this achievement,” said Mark Gruen, Superintendent of Johnson Creek Schools. “This ranking is a testament to the dedication of our teachers, staff, students, and families. Moving up to the 'Exceeds Expectations' level is not just a number—it’s a reflection of our community’s commitment to fostering an environment where every student can thrive.”
Teacher Impact on Student Growth
Another key indicator of the district’s success is its teacher value-added score, which ranks in the 88th percentile statewide. This metric measures how much teachers contribute to students’ academic growth, factoring in both student performance and improvement over time.
“We know that great teaching is one of the most important factors in student success,” said Dr. Neil O’Connell, Principal at Johnson Creek MS/HS. “This high ranking reflects the effectiveness of our teachers in helping students reach their full potential. Their hard work and dedication are at the heart of our students’ growth and achievement.”
A Community Effort
Community involvement and a focus on holistic education are also integral to the district’s success. Parents, local businesses, and organizations have rallied behind the district’s educational initiatives, helping provide resources, mentorship, and encouragement for students both inside and outside the classroom.
“We are fortunate to have such a supportive community,” said Mel Enger, Principal at Johnson Creek Elementary. “It’s clear that everyone—teachers, students, families, and our local partners—are working together toward the shared goal of student success.”
Looking Ahead
While the district celebrates its "Exceeds Expectations" ranking, leaders are not resting on their laurels. Plans are already in place to build on this success, with a focus on continuing to close achievement gaps and ensure every student has the support they need to succeed.
"We are proud of what we've accomplished, but we know there's always room for improvement," said Mark Gruen. “Our next steps will focus on continuing to innovate and adapt so that every child in our district has the best possible opportunity to succeed.”
Sources of Strength
On Friday, October 25th, staff and students from grades 6 through 12 came together for Sources of
On Friday, October 25th, staff and students from grades 6 through 12 came together for Sources of Strength training. This program aims to spread Hope, Help, and Strength throughout our community. We focus on encouraging students and staff to identify their strengths and the support available to them. Moving forward, we will develop messaging campaigns to help our students and community emphasize strength and foster growth together.
Wendt Family Fitness Center
We are thrilled to announce the new "Wendt Family Fitness Center," thanks to the
We are thrilled to announce the new "Wendt Family Fitness Center," thanks to the incredible generosity of Mike and Kayla Wendt and Family! Recognized at the school board meeting on Monday night, their donation truly embodies the spirit of our One Team One Dream (OTOD) initiative.
Since the start of OTOD, naming rights have played a significant role in the funding of our athletic fields and facilities.
Join us in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to the Wendt Family for their support!
Shakespearean Soliloquies from Hamlet
During lunch, two students from Mr. Burke's class performed Shakespearean soliloquies from
During lunch, two students from Mr. Burke's class performed Shakespearean soliloquies from Hamlet. Tony Van Dyck and Molly Burke have worked diligently to perform these soliloquies in honor of our annual Shakespeare Fortnight. Their performance can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/gd4goyjbGbE
Fire Safety Month
October is Fire Safety Month and once again, the Johnson Creek Fire Department visited the
October is Fire Safety Month and once again, the Johnson Creek Fire Department visited the elementary school to teach students all about fire safety. Students had the opportunity to see the inside of the ambulance and fire trucks, learn about the equipment firefighters and EMTs use and eat lunch with some of the firefighters themselves! We would like to send a big thank you to the JCFD for making time to work with our students and teach them all about fire safety. We appreciate you!
Outdoor Learning Space
We have a new outdoor learning space at school for all students to use. This space is located
We have a new outdoor learning space at school for all students to use. This space is located between the middle school and elementary 2-4 domes and has been made possible through donations and the hard work of staff and student volunteers. We used donations the district received from Nickel Night last fall, as well as money given by JCSD staff in memory of Julie O'Brien, who taught first grade here for 30 years to create the outdoor space.
Mr. Chuck did the outside work for the space. He planted trees, created a seating area using logs and rocks, and helped with the planning and placement of benches and picnic tables.
Brenda Gatzke and her family donated all of the logs to create the amazing seating area for classes and Ray Lauersdorf and his Building Construction class made the three picnic tables and two benches.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this project a success! Our students love the new space and are excited to be able to take their learning outdoors!
Livestream Home Sporting Events
The Johnson Creek School District has an ongoing partnership with Hudl and NFHS to
The Johnson Creek School District has an ongoing partnership with Hudl and NFHS to livestream home sporting events. If you can't make the game, you don't have to miss the action! Check out the links below to watch your Bluejays live when you are unable to make it in person!
College Board National Rural and Small Town Recognition Program Scholar
Congratulations to Evan Chowanec, who is one of 32,000 students from across the country to earn
Congratulations to Evan Chowanec, who is one of 32,000 students from across the country to earn academic honors from the College Board's National Recognition Programs! These National Recognition Programs grant underrepresented students with academic honors that can be included on college and scholarship applications and connect students with universities across the country, helping them stand out during the admissions process. Colleges and scholarship programs use these honors to identify students from underrepresented groups through the College Board's Student Search Service
Evan earned this recognition by excelling on his PSAT and AP Exams, as well as in the classroom. To be eligible, students must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and have excelled on the PSAT, or earned a score of 3 or higher on two or more AP Exams, and attend school in a rural area or small town. Eligible students are invited to apply during their sophomore or junior year and are awarded at the beginning of the next school year.
Congratulations, Evan!
A Morning with Moose
The Johnson Creek Police Department held a drawing at Nickel Night and Lillian Fuchs was the lucky
The Johnson Creek Police Department held a drawing at Nickel Night and Lillian Fuchs was the lucky winner of a morning with Moose! Moose is training to become a therapy dog and spent this morning outside the elementary with Lillian. The two of them then rode around the school in a squad car, followed by Moose escorting Lillian to her class.
What an exciting way to start the day!
Thank you to the JCPD, Jay and Vanna Leonard, and of course Moose for spending the morning with our students!
Meet Ms. Fenger
Sophia Fenger is ecstatic to join the Johnson Creek team as the new 6th and 7th grade ELA teacher!
Sophia Fenger is ecstatic to join the Johnson Creek team as the new 6th and 7th grade ELA teacher! She's passionate about both the written word and a good cup of coffee. When she's not immersed in a great book or crafting engaging lessons, you’ll likely find her completing puzzles, making riddles, or listening to podcasts and music. Ms. Fenger looks forward to exploring new stories and ideas with all of you this year!
Meet Ms. Guenette
Meet Sara Guenette, our new First Grade teacher. Ms. Guenette graduated in May 2024 from the
Meet Sara Guenette, our new First Grade teacher. Ms. Guenette graduated in May 2024 from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse with a degree in Early Childhood-Middle Childhood Education. The 2024-2025 school year will be Ms. Guenette's first year of teaching and she is thrilled to begin her teaching journey in the Johnson Creek community. Ms. Guenette grew up in Sussex where she was a hockey and rugby player. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, boating, attending country music concerts, walking her dog, and going to Packer games!
Meet Ms. Clark
Meet Alayna Clark, our new 1st grade teacher. Ms. Clark attended UW-Oshkosh where she played soccer
Meet Alayna Clark, our new 1st grade teacher. Ms. Clark attended UW-Oshkosh where she played soccer and graduated with a degree in Elementary Education this past spring! In her spare time, she loves watching sports, getting outside, spending time with her dog, Taz and being around her friends and family.
Culinary Grant Recipient
Johnson Creek School District Receives $5,000 Rachael Ray Foundation ProStart Grow Grant to Expand
Johnson Creek School District Receives $5,000 Rachael Ray Foundation ProStart Grow Grant to Expand its Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management Program
$5,000 grants can be used to enhance the classroom experience with curriculum, supplies, and equipment.
Johnson Creek is one of 40 high schools nationwide selected to receive a $5,000 grant from The Rachael Ray Foundation and the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) to enhance their ProStart culinary arts and restaurant management program with new equipment, curriculum, and experiential learning opportunities.
"We are so grateful to be amongst this year's grant recipients - these funds will enable our students to maximize their educational time and effort by learning in an industry-standard kitchen environment with updated curriculum, ensuring they gain the college- and career-ready skills they need to be successful." – Ms. Amanda Olsen, FACE Teacher
“Providing Grow Grants is one of my favorite times of the year. The educators who invest their passion and energy into their classrooms are inspiring. I love to see the impact their work has on the students who graduate from ProStart with the knowledge and excitement for the restaurant industry,” said Rachael Ray.
ProStart educators play a pivotal role in the program’s success in more than 2,100 high schools nationwide, blending its core curriculum with hands-on industry engagement activities, including special speakers, class mentors, and tours of local culinary facilities. The 2024 grant application was open to existing ProStart schools, or those looking to join the program in the coming school year. The NRAEF anticipates that the grants will benefit more than 3,700 students and 42 teachers across 22 states.
In the last five years,153 ProStart Grow Grants have been awarded to schools showing a strong desire to engage students through ProStart’s industry-leading career and technical education program. In addition to classroom grants, The Rachael Ray Foundation and the Yum-o! organization have sponsored more than 260 scholarships for students pursuing post-secondary degrees in the restaurant and hospitality industry.
“ProStart Grow Grants are a gamechanger for many ProStart classrooms, providing the support to add crucial curriculum, equipment, and experiences for students. We’re grateful for the partnership of The Rachael Ray Foundation, which is helping educators give their students a front row seat to all that a career in the restaurant industry offers,” said Rob Gifford, president of the NRAEF.
ProStart has equipped more than 214,000 students with the essentials of culinary arts and restaurant management through its two-year CTE program, found at a mix of public high schools and career technical education centers across all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Students completing the program gain restaurant-specific certifications and competencies, over 400 hours of practical work experience, and access to restaurant and hospitality apprenticeship and scholarship opportunities.
