Heading the list of local scholarships, five Max Alberts Scholarships for $5,964.00 each were awarded. The recipients were Hannah Constable, Ralph Hombsch, Kaylee Jablonski, Mateah Roehl, and Justin Swanson. Throughout high school, each student has made positive contributions to the school and community. Best wishes to these students as they continue their education.
Hannah participated in cross country, basketball, and track & field all four years of high school and she held leadership positions in each sport. Hannah was also involved in Honors Choir, Solo & Ensemble, Honors Band, pep band, the school musical, FBLA, National Honor Society, student council, and student government. In addition Hannah demonstrated leadership in her roles with the JC Hype Club, yearbook/newspaper, and academic bowl. She was also the school board student representative in 11th and 12th grades, the Wisconsin Leadership Seminar representative in 10th grade, and the Badger Girls State Delegate in 11th grade. Hannah will continue her love of running at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities where she will run for the Track team while pursuing a degree in Communications. She was also awarded the Johnson Creek Booster Club Scholarship ($500) and the Red Cross Scholarship ($250).
Ralph played football, basketball, wrestling, and baseball throughout the past four years. He also participated in and held leadership positions in Pep Band, FFA, National Honor Society, and Student Government. He attended the FFA National Convention twice and the FFA Washington DC Leadership Conference last summer. During the summers Ralph volunteered with the Farmington All-Star 4-H Club and he was an assistant coach for Farmington Baseball, T-Ball, and Jr. Pee Wee team. Ralph will continue his education at St. Norbert College with a major in Computer Science. He was also awarded the Francis F. Carnes Scholarship ($3,000) the Johnson Creek Booster Club Scholarship ($500), the Johnson Creek Education Foundation University Scholarship ($6000), St. Norbert College Scholarship ($20,000 per year), Watertown Elks Lodge Scholarship ($200), and the Comfort Systems USA Academic Scholarship ($10,000).
Kaylee participated in basketball and softball throughout high school, as well as volleyball and cross county. She held leadership positions in culture club and FFA and was a member of the National Honor Society, student council, and student government. Kaylee has shown pigs at the Jefferson County Fair since she was in second grade. She has attended both state and national FFA conventions, competed in livestock judging, and attended the FFA Washington DC Leadership Conference last summer. In addition Kaylee earned a Nursing Assistant Certification while in high school and worked as a CNA. She will continue her education at UW LaCrosse with a major in Radiation Therapy. She also received the Red Cross Scholarship ($250).
Mateah held leadership positions in wrestling, track & field, pep band, art club, culture club, and student government. She also participated in volleyball, softball, National Honor Society, math club, and the JC Hype Club during high school. Last school year, Mateah took 5th at the Talinn Open in Estonia which is an International wrestling tournament with lots of great wrestlers. Next school year Mateah will attend North Central College where she will wrestle while majoring in Psychology. She also received the Performance Wrestling Club Scholarship ($500), the Johnson Creek Booster Club Scholarship ($500), North Central College Dean Scholarship ($24,000), the North Central College Schneller Sister Scholarship ($3,750), and the North Central College Founders Campus Award ($4,000).
Justin was a leader on the football, basketball, and baseball teams throughout high school. In addition to athletics, he held leadership positions in the National Honor Society and student government. Further, he participated in pep band, culture club, student council, academic bowl, and the JC Hype Club. As a senior, Justin was nominated by teachers and peers as the Johnson Creek DAR Good Citizen delegate and in 11th grade, Justin served as the Johnson Creek Badger Boys State representative. Justin is attending North Park University in the fall and majoring in Mechanical Engineering. He was also awarded the Academic Excellence Scholarship ($10,000), the Johnson Creek Booster Club Scholarship ($500), the Johnson Creek Education Foundation University Scholarship ($6000), North Park University Nyvall Scholarship ($18,000 per year), North Park University Promise Scholarship ($3000 per year), North Park University STEM Grant ($5000 per year), and the North Park University Campus Tour Scholarship ($1500 per year).
Brianna Berger - Watertown Regional Medical Center Health Career Scholarship ($1000)
Megan Christian - Carthage College Non-Major Music Scholarship ($1000), Carthage Endowed Scholar ($1000), Carthage Director’s Grant ($1000), Carthage Founders Scholarship ($8,000), Carthage Music Scholar Grant ($1000), Robert Todd Grant ($1000), Carthage Southport Grant ($1,186), and the Carthage Trustee Grant ($2750)
Lukas David - Johnson Creek Performance Wrestling Scholarship ($500), Johnson Creek Booster Club Scholarship ($500), and the Arthur Albertz Scholarship ($500)
Sawyer Grunewald - Ohio Technical College Scholarship ($5,000) and the Universal Technical Institute Scholarship ($3,000)
Brooke Joseph - Johnson Creek Booster Club Scholarship ($500), Arthur Albertz Scholarship ($500), the Johnson Creek Education Foundation Technical College Scholarship ($2000), and a Bryant & Stratton College Softball Scholarship
David Vallo - Herb Kohl Initiative Scholarship ($10,000)
Senior Athlete Hannah Constable
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Hannah Constable. She has earned 12 varsity letters. is a 3 time medalist at the State CC meet, was conference track POY, as well as a 4 time State Champion in track. The list goes on. Hannah has had a very bright HS career. #GOJAYS!
Senior Athlete - Justin Swanson
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Justin Swanson. 12 varsity letters. All-Trailways 3 sports. Conference and District POY-baseball. Offense and Defense POY-football. Team Captain, 3 sports. There aren't enough superlatives to describe Justin's career. #GOJAYS!
Senior Athlete Bailey Gosh
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Bailey Gosh. Bailey has been a part of many victories in volleyball and softball. She is a true team player whose infectious positive attitude always lifted her teammates and coaches. #GOJAYS!
Senior Athlete Nick Hoffman
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Nick Hoffman. Nick is a 9 time letter winner in Football, Wrestling and Track; as well as an All-Conference performer in football, and a state qualifying powerlifter. He's a committed athlete who consistently improved. #GOJAYS!
Caitlin Senior Athlete
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Caitlin Burns. Caitlin was part of a conference championship winning volleyball team and always displays Bluejay Pride. #GOJAYS!
Sam Budig Senior Athlete
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Sam Budig. Sam is an all-conference football player, state-qualifying powerlifter and holds 4 school records in track and field. He's a great example of what a coachable athlete looks like and for what hard work and dedication can do. #GOJAYS!
Megan Senior Spotlight
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Megan Christian. Megan is a 2020 honor student-athlete who always gave her best effort both on the court and in the classroom. #GOJAYS!
Jakob Senior Spotlight
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Jacob Yoshino. Jacob battled through injuries throughout his HS career and always competed hard. #GOJAYS!
Jasmine Senior Athlete
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Jasmine Tolsma. A team player with lots of school spirit. #GOJAYS!
Alex Garza - Senior Athlete
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Alex Garza. Alex is an all-conference football performer who earned 11 varsity letters during his HS career. He is a great competitor who always displayed a strong desire to succeed. #GOJAYS!
Chelsea Hernandez - Senior Athlete
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Chelsea Hernandez. Chelsea is an Honor Student-Athlete who always demonstrates Bluejay Pride. #GOJAYS!
Lukas David - Senior Athlete
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Lukas David. In wrestling Lukas was a 2X conference champ, 4X sectional qualifier, 2X state qualifier and won over 100 matches. He's a true servant leader who also volunteered many hours helping youth and has become a WIAA licensed official. #GOJAYS!
Brooke Joseph - Senior Athlete
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Brooke Joseph. Brooke is an all-conference performer in both basketball and softball. She is a dedicated student-athlete whose grit and determination always shined through. #GOJAYS!
Reed Garsky - Senior Athlete
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Reed Garsky. Reed is a great example of determination. He overcame injuries and always improved because of his commitment and desire. #GOJAYS!
Mateah Senior Athlete
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Mateah Roehl. Mateah is an all-conference and state qualifying track performer. She also holds school records with three relay teams and the pole vault. She is a girls state wrestling champion and the first ever Trailways Conference female wrestler of the year. True leader! #GOJAYS!
Ralph Homsch - Senior Athlete
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Ralph Hombsch; a positive school leader and Bluejay through and through. #GOJAYS!
Brianna Berger - Senior Athlete
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Brianna Berger; an ultimate team player and great example of positivity. #GOJAYS!
Isaiah Wollet - Senior Athlete Spotlight
Today's JC senior athlete is Isaiah Wollet. Isaiah is a 4 time Conference Placer, 2 time conference champion, and 4 time sectional qualifier for Wrestling. He's a great example of hard work and dedication paying off. #GOJAYS!
Kaylee Jablonski Student Athlete
Today's senior athlete is Kaylee Jablonski. A great example of what the term student-athlete means and role model for future Bluejays. #GOJAYS!
Ben Blanke
Today's JC Senior Athlete is Ben Blanke. Great teammate and true Bluejay! #GOJAYS!
Thank You to the Community!
Dear Community Members:
On behalf of our Board of Education, staff, and students we wish to thank you for your support of the 2020 referendum. As a community, we have made it happen.
In 2008, we came together to review the condition of our schools. A very diverse community committee recommended that all of the operations of the school district be moved to the Aztalan Street land, which was already owned by the District. Because of the cost, a two-phase plan was approved. In 2014, the community embraced the plan which became the MS/HS. On April 7th, 2020, we as a community came together again and approved the elementary addition which makes the 2008 goal a reality. We are scheduled to start the 2021-2022 school year “all under one roof”, as they say.
No one could imagine that we would do so during a pandemic. The pundits said that it couldn’t be done. However, as we have done many times in Johnson Creek, we don’t do what is easy, we do what is right. This community supports our young people and ensuring a quality education, in facilities which will encourage that, is just part of that mission.
Since 2014, we have also been successful in building new athletic fields without doing so with an additional referendum. Hundreds of donors have contributed time, talent, work and material to make it happen. A special thank you to the Glovers (Glover Field), The Wuestenbergs (Wuestenberg Baseball and Softball Fields) and Dale Weis (Weis Center) who all made significant financial contributions. Emrath Construction and Midwest Electric have been great corporate supporters.
This spring, due to the pandemic, as an educational community, we looked to our staff, families, and community members to work together to continue to provide a quality education, even when we could not be in the school buildings. Kudos to the community---we can be proud, we have stepped up.
We appreciate the trust you have placed in us and your wiliness to support and partner with us. Again, we wish to thank you for your continued support of YOUR school district.
Sincerely,
Michael P. Garvey, Ph.D.
Superintendent
Richard Wrensch
Board of Education President
MS Academic Bowl Finds Success
Congratulations to Carson Vaughn for placing 3rd in Social Studies and Elizabeth Barganz for placing 2nd in Science at the Middle School Academic Bowl Meet.
State Wrestling
This past weekend, 516 athletes from around the state took part in the two-day State Powerlifting Competition.
Johnson Creek was represented by 5 lifters. Two in the girl's division (Brianna Berger and Alyssa Kwarciany) and three in the boy's division (Alejandro Saldana, Sam Budig, and Nick Hoffmann).
Highlights of the weekend include:
Bri Berger had 4 personal records and an outstanding showing on day 1. She set PR's in the Back Squat at 215lbs, Bench Press at 115.5 lbs, Deadlift at 286.5 lbs, and total at 617 lbs.
Alyssa Kwarciany placed 11th place in her division.
Alejandro Saldana had 5 personal records on his way to a 5th place on the podium in a senior dominant weight class. This is extremely impressive because he just ended his wrestling season. He set PR's in the Back Squat at 358 lbs, Bench Press at 236.75 lbs, Deadlift at 418.75 lbs, and a grand total PR at 1013.75 lbs.
Sam Budig also had 5 personal records on his way to 7th place. This is a significant improvement from his 13 place finish last year. Sam set PR's in the Back Squat at 352 lbs, Bench Press at 220 lbs, and Deadlift at 468.25 lbs. He had a grand total of 10140.25 lbs.
Nick Hoffmann rounded the second day out setting 4 personal records at his current weight of 220lbs, placing second place, putting him on the podium for the second year in a row. Nick set personal records in the Back Squat at 496 lbs, also beating the previous state record, Bench Press at 292 lbs, Deadlift at 545.5 lbs, also beating the previous state record, and a total of 1,333.75 lbs, which is currently the boys 220 lb class total state record. Nick tied for 1st place with his total. Due to a tiebreaker that is based off of personal body weight, Nick weighed 2 lbs heavier which gave him a second place. "He is a Back to Back State Champion in my book," said Coach Huber
"I'm extremely happy with how the weekend went. Both boys and Girls lifted and competed very well and we set 16 total personal records among the 5 that competed. This year was a blast! Thank you Bri, Alyssa, Alejandro, Nick, Kaiyli and Sam." -Coach Huber
Kletsch Receives Scholarship
Congratulations to Mackenzie Kletsch who was awarded the Wisconsin Technical Excellence Scholarship. She will receive $2250 per year (up to six semesters) to help further her education.
Mackenzie plans to further her education at Madison College in Business Management. Mackenzie is a hardworking and dedicated student with outstanding verbal skills. During high school, she expanded her knowledge in the field of business through numerous opportunities. She took a business class each year as well as writing for the school yearbook and newspaper for the past two years. In addition, she has worked jobs in retail and service in the Johnson Creek community.
In addition to being business-minded, Mackenzie is creative and a talented singer. She participated in the art club, choir (including honors choir), and the school musical throughout high school.
Congratulations to Mackenzie!
Swanson Receives Scholarship
Congratulations to Justin Swanson for being awarded the Wisconsin Academic Excellence Scholarship. He will receive $2250 per year (up to eight semesters) to help further his education. Justin plans to attend college and pursue an engineering degree. Justin is academically talented as well as responsible, genuine, and thoughtful.
His accomplishments throughout high school are impressive including: National Honors Society (President), Student Government (President), Student Council, DAR representative, and Badger Boys State representative. In addition, he participated in sports each season: varsity football (Captain), varsity basketball (Captain), and baseball (Captain).
Justin is a positive influence on those around him while remaining calm and confident. Outside of school, Justin volunteered this fall to coach a youth football team.
Congratulations to Justin!
Books Collected for Free Little Libraries
During the month of February, Elementary students collected books for Little Free Libraries here in Johnson Creek and the surrounding communities. As a total, we collected 8 boxes that will now be distributed here and in other towns. Thank you for sharing your love of reading with others!
Badger Boy/Girl Announced
Badger Boy
Congratulations to Dylan Gruss who will represent Johnson Creek High School at Badger Boys State this summer. His delegation to Badger Boys State is sponsored by the Johnson Creek American Legion Post #305. In high school, Dylan participates in cross country, wrestling, track, and the math team. This fall, Dylan was named first-team all-conference for cross country. In his free time, Dylan enjoys woodworking. He has made end tables and picture frames for family members to enjoy. After high school, Dylan plans to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering.
Badger Girl
Congratulations to Lindsey Beech who will represent Johnson Creek High School at Badger Girls State this summer. Her delegation to Badger Girls State is sponsored by the Johnson Creek American Legion Auxiliary Post #305. In high school, Lindsey plays volleyball and participates in the Mock Trial, FFA, FBLA, National Honors Society, and Student Council. She is also the manager for the Wrestling team. Lindsey is passionate about equine health and wellbeing. As part of the Youth Apprenticeship program, she trains horses for riding and barrel racing. In addition, she travels the country participating in horse derbys. After high school, Lindsey plans to attend college where she will double major in Animal Science and Business.
Elementary Receives Grant for 3D Printer
The Elementary School was awarded a generous JCEF Innovation grant to purchase a Makerbot Replicator + 3D Printer. Mr. Cheek, the grant writer, had this to say about the use of a 3D Printer in the elementary school:
"I have believed in the importance of having a 3D printer in the elementary for several years. My main concern and reason for not pushing, until now, for the purchase of one was that I wanted it to be more than just a tool to further students' ability to consume tech. It wasn’t until a recent conference that I met a like-minded educator who helped show me the solution to my previous concern. The solution was to teach 3D design software to students and allow them to create, instead of consume. The possibilities extend beyond the projects currently planned but can extend into any classroom. Imagine students using 3D design software in math to visualize concepts like angles and measurement by manipulating 3D shapes on the screen, students in reading creating and designing an object or token from a story, students researching and recreating a Native American home, or students in art exploring jewelry making. Teaching students the tools needed to be successful in 3D design software and printing those designs opens up endless possibilities for creating in the future."
Mr. Cheek will begin to teach 3D Design concepts to both 3rd and 4th grade students starting in a few weeks. However, the 3D Printers location in the Elementary Makerspace makes this piece of technology available to all students/staff.
Forensics Competes this Weekend
Congratulations to the Johnson Creek Forensics team for a fantastic showing at the Friday Night Lights Tournament hosted by Milton High School. We had four students advance to finalist rounds. Anna Yezzi advanced in Special Occasion Speaking and Olivia Sykes in Moments in History; both placing 3rd. Brooklyn Patterson advanced in Prose and Alyssa Kunath in Oratory; both placing 4th.
On Saturday the team had another great forensics tournament. The following students placed in their competitive categories: Anna Yezzi (Special Occasion Speaking) and Tyler Jensen (Demonstration Speaking) both placed 2nd. Olivia Sykes placed 3rd in Moments in History. Adriell Patterson ( Poetry) and Rianne Remsik (Special Occasion Speaking) both placed 5th.
Congratulations to the entire forensics team for a job well done!
Kindergarten Celebrates 100 Days with Kindness
On Wednesday, February 12th the Kindergarten classes at Johnson Creek Elementary celebrated their 100th day of school. As part of their celebration, the kindergarteners did a ‘100th Day of School’ project, focusing on kindness and helping others. Their goal was to collect 100+ items to donate to the Community Action Coalition in Watertown, WI, which works towards ending poverty in Jefferson county. Students brought in items such as new toiletries, gently used clothing, and non-perishable food items. The kindergarteners then counted the items and participated in making care packages, filling large Ziplock bags with the donated items, and also attaching a personal note from each child.
The students had a great time and were excited about being kind to others. What a great way to celebrate 100 days of success, while giving back 100 items to those in need!
February 16 Powerlifting
On Sunday, February 16th, the Powerlifting Team went down to Waterford for a last chance qualifier. Johnson Creek had 4 students that participated.
Of the three girls that participated, Kaiyli Thompson participated in her first-ever competitive powerlifting meet. She totaled 445 lbs. Brianna Berger set personal records in her back squat at 210 lbs and her deadlift at 260 lbs. WIth her 260lb pull at deadlift, she qualified for state. Her total was 575 lbs. Alyssa Kwarciany set 3 personal records in her second powerlifting meet: Back squat 240lbs, bench press 120lbs, and deadlift 285lbs. Her total of 645lbs ranks her top 10 in the state.
Alejandro Saldana represented the boy's team for Johnson Creek. Alejandro qualified for state for his second year in a row with a total of 925lbs. He set a personal record at the deadlift at 380lbs.
Also, a big thank you to Nick Hoffmann who already qualified for state and showed up to help out all day Sunday, coaching his teammates.
The State Championship is on March 7th and 8th where we will have 5 total lifters participating: Bri Berger, Alyssa Kwarciany, Sam Budig, Alejandro Saldana, and Nick Hoffmann.
Congratulations, team!
FBLA Attends Regional Conference
On Saturday, February 1st, the Johnson Creek FBLA team attended the Chapter V Regional Competition in Waterloo. When we arrived and got settled, we were welcomed with an opening ceremony. Looking at the crowd, some of us recognized some familiar faces from neighboring districts. Everybody was dressed up in suits and formal dresses. After the welcoming ceremony, it was time for events, so everybody was going in and out at different times; some of us taking tests, and some of us doing performing events.
In the meantime, there were three different workshops for us to visit, including one with someone giving lessons on how to introduce yourself.
After lunch, keynote speaker Jay Ewald told us the story of his life and enlightened us with lots of great motivation. After the speaker, the awards ceremony began.
Four of our students placed in the top five of their events and Anna Yezzi and Chelsea Hernandez will be advancing to the State Leadership Conference in Madison.
Overall, the experience was one to remember, especially because it was my first year being involved in FBLA. If I could go back and join sooner, I would, but because I can’t, all I can do is tell other people to join FBLA.
--Chelsea Hernandez, Historian
Students Compete in Powerlifting
Congratulations to the 4 students that participated in the Germantown Powerlifting meet last Saturday. There were over 200 lifters that participated and over 450 people that attended.
Highlights for the girls include:
Two first time lifters in the girls' division
Alyssa Kwarciany and Brianna Berger took 1st and 3rd place
Alyssa qualified for State with a total of 610lbs. She set personal records in the back squat at 230lbs and deadlift at 270lbs.
Brianna Berger just missed qualifying for State; taking 3rd place
Highlights on the boy's side include:
Nick Hoffmann and Sam Budig both qualified for State for the second year in a row.
Nick Hoffmann took 1st place with a total of 1275 lbs at a new weight division this year in the 220lb class.
Sam Budig took home a 3rd place in a tough 165 division setting multiple personal records. He set personal records in the back squat at 340lbs, the deadlift at 450lbs, and total at 995lbs.
The Johnson Creek School District announces its honor roll for the 2nd Quarter of the 2019-20 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
Brianna Berger, Benjamin Blanke, Samuel Budig, Megan Christian, Hannah Constable, Lukas David, Reed Garsky, Alex Garza, Bailey Gosh, Paytin Guttenberg, Nicholas Hoffmann, Ralph Hombsch, Kaylee Jablonski, Brianna Klausch, Alyvia Mundt, Tyler Naatz*, Mateah Roehl, Viviana Segura, Justin Swanson, Isaiah Wollet
Juniors
Lindsey Beech, Maiya Benner, Allison Erdmann, Dylan Gruss, Nevaeh Hehr, Isabella Herman, Julia Nuno, Jayden Solberg*, Samuel Toebe, Braden Walling, Abigail Windl*, Anna Yezzi*
Sophomores
Kaylin Bender, Levi Berres, Hannah Budig, Samuel Buetow, Isabelle Doherty, Katelyn Draeger, Isaac Hartz, Melanie Hernandez, Alyssa Kunath, Alyssa Kwarciany*, Ryan Moore, Sara Neary, Adriell Patterson, Chantel Reiser, Denalyn Siewert*, Alexis Swanson, Dylan Thomas, Ashlee Walk, Russell Wieczorek
Freshmen
Elizabeth Arnold, Connor Baneck, Michael Caminata, Olivia Carlson, Milo Chart, Kylie Hehr*, Ella Olszewski, Brooklyn Patterson, Ethan Richardt, Brittany Rue, Alyssa Sadowski, Sarah Seaborn, Madalyne Thorman, Madeline Toebe, Gabrielle Trujillo, Bailey Wagner, Josey Whitehouse
HONOR ROLL
Seniors
Eagen Beck, Chelsea Hernandez, Brooke Joseph, Mackenzie Kletsch, Olivia Sykes, Emily Tolsma, Jasmine Tolsma, David Vallo, Ethan Walechka, Lily Webster, Simon Wenzel, Leo Wittig, Zachary Yuker
Juniors
Dalton Bredlow, Andrea Caminata, Jack Dotzler, Natalie Grenz, Bow Hartwig, Maryanna Hintz, Clara Kossmann, Julia Mielke, Howard Olszewski, Yesenia Orona Amaya, Wyatt Owen, Rianne Remsik, Alejandro Saldana, Kaiyli Thompson
Caleb Bigsby, Daniel Borkowski, Erin Brown, Matthew Gruss, Landen Heuter, Hannah Koch, Evan Pokorny, Shane Radtke
Students attend Bucks game
On Sunday, the students that met or exceeded the J.C. Elementary/Milwaukee Bucks Reading Challenge had the opportunity to sit courtside during the Bucks pre-game warmups for their game against the Phoenix Suns. The students enjoyed watching the players up-close and getting to see them prepare for the game.
Bango Visits Students
Bango, the Milwaukee Bucks mascot, came to J.C. Elementary on Wednesday to help celebrate the completion of the 5th Annual J.C. Elementary/Milwaukee Bucks Reading Challenge. Bango handed out Certificates to students that met or exceeded the Reading Challenge and these students will also have the opportunity to sit courtside during the pre-game warm-ups at the February 2nd Bucks game against the Phoenix Suns. Overall, the students read a total of 16,691 minutes and 503 books. This was an amazing effort by our students to engage in and enjoy reading.
Firefighters have lunch with students
Yesterday members of the Johnson Creek Fire & EMS Department came to have lunch with our elementary students.
Thank you for everything you do to support our school and community!
Elementary Students of the Week (Week of 12/9):
12/2 Students of the Week
Elementary Students of Quarter 1
DAR Good Citizen
Congratulations to Justin Swanson who represents Johnson Creek High School this school year as the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Good Citizen. The DAR Good Citizen program and scholarship contest is intended to encourage and reward the qualities of good citizenship; including dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. Through academics, athletics, and community service; Justin is a leader who inspires others to do well. From prom king to class president to youth football coach; Justin has touched the lives of many. He will be missed next school year as he attends college for a degree in electrical engineering.
Cross Country at Sectionals
Division 3 sectionals were held Saturday at UW-Whitewater. Our girls' team ran a tremendous race finishing 9th overall. Scoring as individuals, our boys ran hard and well to wrap up their season.
Senior Hannah Constable ran an excellent race, finishing 2nd overall and qualifying for state as an individual. The State Cross Country Meet will be held Saturday, November 2nd in Wisconsin Rapids. This is Hannah's third appearance there, last year she finished 10th.
Another special congratulations to our other two seniors, Mateah Rohl and Kaylee Jablonski.
Third Grade Visits Discovery World
Third grade students from Johnson Creek Elementary School had the opportunity to visit Discovery World in Milwaukee, WI on Friday, October 18, 2019. Students participated in a workshop titled Bubble Science in which they learned about how to make the best bubble and the chemistry and physics behind them. They also watched the video Weird Nature: Devious Defenses where they learned about how animals protect themselves from their predators both on land and in water. Students also explored many other amazing exhibits! It was truly a great day for all!
This trip was granted to third grade through the Kohl’s Cares Field Trip Grant.
10/17 Students of the Week
Equestrian Places 3rd
This past weekend, the Johnson Creek Equestrian Team placed 3rd at the district show. This resulted in an invite to the state show on October 26 & 27 in Madison at the Alliant Energy Center. Congratulations to Mikaela Brown and Madline Toebe, coached by Lauren Ansay!
Students Interview Diesel Mechanic
Sawyer Grunewald and Mason Riegel are collaborating on a science project, exploring the science behind a diesel engine. Recently, they had an opportunity to interview Bryce Reichert from Meier Truck Service to learn more about diesel engines.
9/30 Students of the Week
AP Students Visit UW Madison
AP Literature students attended UW-Madison for a workshop presented by the University's Writing Center. These Johnson Creek Students will once again run our own writing center in the Flex Learning Center. The Johnson Creek Writing Center is open to all MS/HS students that are seeking help writing papers, giving presentations, and group projects.
9/16 Students of the Week
Welcome Ms. Dunton
Welcome, Ms. Morgan Dunton, our new Kindergarten teacher!
Ms. Dunton recently graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Elementary Education. She grew up in Oconomowoc and has returned back home to begin her teaching career. Her favorite things are traveling, decorating, coffee, and animals. In her free time, Ms. Dunton likes to spend time outside, go rollerblading, shopping, and enjoying time with friends, family, and her two dogs, Macy and Murphy.
Ms. Dunton couldn’t be more excited to join the Johnson Creek family!
Welcome, MS. Dunton!
Meet Cindie Venem
Meet Cindie Venem, our new addition to the Middle School Math team. She grew up in Memphis, TN and graduated from Memphis State University. After teaching a year there, she moved to Texas, then California (both Southern and Northern), then Washington, then Japan, and landed in Wisconsin. She had a really neat opportunity a few years ago to teach in Kuwait for 3 years. Kuwait is okay, but the traveling was the best part! She was able to check off some things on her bucket list - visit Iceland and touch a glacier, ride a camel into the Sahara Desert and camp overnight, and hike to Petra, just to name a few. But one of her proudest moments happened this past Memorial Day when her oldest daughter, Jordan, got married and she and her youngest daughter, Jenna, got to walk her down the aisle!
During her free time, she loves to hike and kayak so that she can observe the wonders that nature has to offer!
Welcome, Ms. Venem!
Meet Ms. Jessica Barczak
Meet Ms. Jessica Barczak
Ms. Barczak is the new special educator at the Johnson Creek Middle School, working closely with 7th and 8th grade. She recently graduated from UW-Madison and is excited to start off her first year as an educator in the Johnson Creek School District! She is a big Brewer and Packer fan and in her spare time is an avid runner, and enjoys traveling. Most recently, during the summer Ms. Barczak visited Ghana for three weeks to complete a global health mission trip.
Welcome, Ms. Barczak!
Welcome Ms. Meghan Woodson
Meet Ms. Meghan Woodson.
Ms. Woodson will be joining the Kindergarten team as a literacy teacher. This will be her second year teaching. Last year she taught kindergarten in Rochester, MN while working towards her masters.
Ms. Woodson graduated from Winona State University with a degree in Elementary Education and Early Childhood and a reading instruction minor in December 2017, and with her Master in Education from Winona State University in June 2019. She grew up in Hartland and just moved back with her high school sweetheart, Curry, and two cats, Bucky and Holly, to be closer to family.
In her spare time, Ms. Woodson likes to read suspenseful novels, spend time outside, enjoy time with friends, family, and her beautiful new niece, Emersyn, and cheer on the Brewers and Packers! She's very excited to be a part of the Johnson Creek family!
Welcome, Ms. Woodson!
Meet Ms. Kayla Maller
Meet Ms. Kayla Maller.
Ms. Maller graduated from UW-Stevens Point with a Bachelors of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences Education with a minor in Business Administration in 2017. Previously, Ms. Maller taught at Deforest Area Middle School and this will be her 2nd year teaching. She is excited to start the school year and become a member of the Johnson Creek Family!
In her spare time, Ms. Maller enjoys crafts, hikes, exploring new places, taking pictures with her camera, and hanging out with family and friends!
Welcome Ms. Maller!
Meet Ms. Raven Wilson
Meet Raven Wilson, the new Middle School Math Teacher.
Ms. Wilson graduated in 2017 from UW Oshkosh with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a Mathematics license. This will be Ms. Wilson's 3rd year teaching. She previously taught 2nd grade in Redgranite, WI. Ms. Wilson recently moved to the area with her boyfriend and their sweet cat, Sierra.
In her spare time, Ms Wilson enjoys reading, crafting for her friends and family, and yoga. She is also a huge Harry Potter fan! Ms. Wilson is so excited to join the Johnson Creek family this year.
Welcome, Ms. Wilson!
Meet Mrs. Short
Meet Mrs. Ashley Short, the new 2nd grade teacher with a math focus.
Mrs. Short recently graduated from UW-Whitewater with an elementary education major and a minor in elementary mathematics. She is extremely happy to begin her teaching career at Johnson Creek and stay part of the community after student teaching at JC Elementary last spring!
Mrs. Short and her husband love animals (especially dogs) and have two rescue dogs of their own. In her free time, she enjoys walking her dogs, spending time outside, reading a good book, and watching the Packers. Above all, she loves traveling with her husband and exploring National Parks!
Welcome, Mrs. Short!
Meet Mrs. Stephanie Bentheimer
Meet Mrs. Stephanie Bentheimer.
Mrs. Bentheimer is the new Crossroads lead teacher. Crossroads, or CAP2, is the alternative education program that works with students from Johnson Creek and Lake Mills. This is Mrs. Bentheimer's 13th year as an educator, and all of her experience is in alternative education; assisting students at-risk of not graduating from high school.
Mrs. Bentheimer received her bachelor's degree from Edgewood College and is licensed to teach history and social studies. However, her passion has always been with alternative education.
Prior to joining Johnson Creek, Mrs. Bentheimer taught for 8 years at an alternative high school in West Allis, coordinated transition services for students with special needs in Jefferson and Dane County, piloted a Youth Apprenticeship program in Madison Wisconsin, and lead the GED program in Watertown. She is also in the middle of graduate work for school counseling with Concordia University.
Mrs. Bentheimer's areas of expertise include: Trauma informed education, African- Centered Pedagogy, Project Based Learning, Career Counseling, and Personalized Learning.
Mrs. Bentheimer lives with her husband Tim and her 11 year old son Zachary; as well as their dog named Marley. In her spare time she likes to swim, exercise, practice yoga, play the piano, read, and spend time with her family.
Welcome, Mrs. Bentheimer!
Meet Mr. Castillo
Meet Mr. Julio Castillo. He is the new ELL Teacher for the District.
Mr. Castillo graduated from UW-Whitewater in 2012 with degrees is in Elementary Education and English as a Second Language (ESL). He has been teaching for 7 years, including having taught ELL in Delavan for 2 years. For the last 5 years, Mr. Castillo taught ELL, 5th, and 2nd grade in Verona. He has 2 children, Taylor and Raymond. He and his wife Jennie have been married for 10 years. Mr. Castillo loves outdoor music and spending time with his 3 dogs.
Welcome, Mr. Castillo!
Meet Mrs. Nelson
Welcome Mrs. Lindsey Nelson, our new literacy-focused Kindergarten teacher to Johnson Creek.
Mrs. Nelson is a recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. She earned her degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Spanish and is pumped to begin her career at Johnson Creek Elementary School! Mrs. Nelson married her high school sweet-heart this past summer and adopted a spunky cat named Molly. Mrs. Nelson loves anything that gets her outside or exploring. Her ideal day would be to hike to a beautiful spot and spend the day reading, relaxing, and picnicking.
Meet Ms. Calvagna
Johnson Creek Elementary is excited to welcome Ms. Rebecca Calvagna this school year!
Ms. Calvagna will be teaching 1st grade this year. She graduated from UW-Whitewater in 2016 and this will be her 4th year teaching. Previously, she taught 5th grade and then 2nd grade in Janesville. Ms. Calvagna just moved to the area with her adorable dog, Franky Sinatra. In her spare time, she enjoys going to Brewers games!
Welcome, Ms. Calvagna!
PremiereBank Donates $5,000
PremierBank has donated $5,000 to the Johnson Creek One Team One Dream Fundraiser for the athletic Fields, for the “PremierBank Pkwy” street sign. The driveway in front of the Johnson Creek Middle School/High School has been named PremierBank Parkway in honor of their generous donation.
PremierBank has also contributed $1,000 as a “Table Sponsor” for our November 9, 2019 OTOD GALA Fundraiser. Several other local businesses have also generously supported the GALA.
The Johnson Creek School District appreciates the continued support of our local businesses.
Information about GALA or contributing to the campaign can be found at
http://www.jconeteamonedream.com/
Pictured Left to Right: Pictured (left to right): Tom Merfeld, VP/loan officer; Russ Turk, President & CEO; Dr. Garvey, Superintendent; Rick Wrensch, School Board President; Rochelle Mitchell, VP/Director of Public Relations
