elcome to the 2024-2025 school year, marking an incredible 90 years of Concordia Lutheran High School serving our Fort Wayne community through education and service.
This school year’s theme, “Endure…with Christ at the Center,” is inspired by Hebrews 12:1-3:
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted."
For nine decades, the ‘how’ of Concordia’s approach to education may have evolved with advances in technology and new methods of instruction, but the ‘why’ of our mission remains steadfast: Concordia Lutheran High
School pursues Christ-centered educational excellence that equips students for lifelong learning and service as disciples of Jesus Christ. Our history is deeply rooted in faith, strengthened by the countless witnessesstudents, parents, and staff - who have been part of this community and carried forward its mission.
God’s blessings are evident in the remarkable start to this school year. We celebrate enrollment growth, high academic achievement, and outstanding co-curricular success, including deep runs in state finals for our marching band, boys soccer, and boys & girls cross country teams. Our JROTC Raiders also made us proud with a 2nd place finish at Nationals. Although we are still in the first semester, this school year is already adding to the great legacy and the “cloud of witnesses” that make Concordia Lutheran High School special.
Go Concordia!
Patrick Frerking PRINCIPAL
Fall 2024 | Vol. 33 | Issue 1
HEAD OF SCHOOL
Jacob Pennekamp ’92
PRINCIPAL
Patrick Frerking
CHIEF ADVANCEMENT OFFICER
Matthew Konow ’91
MAGAZINE EDITOR
Brent Childers
MAGAZINE DESIGNER
Robert Dollens
ADVANCEMENT STAFF
Wendy Bentz Director of Development Services
Jenny (Hallien) Grisez ‘93 Development Coordinator
Audrey Gilbert ‘08 Director of Annual Giving
Dawn Schuller Director of Admissions and Retention
Sierra Becker Admissions Counselor
Isabel Braun Grant Writer
COVER PHOTO
Thank you to the Habegger and Goeglein families, three generations of Cadets: Row 1: Phil Habegger (CLHS Teacher, 2003-2012), Marty Habegger ‘63 Row 2: Carol Goeglein ’59, Larry Goeglein ‘56
Row 3: Jack Habegger ’25, Diana (Goeglein) Habegger ’91, Bill Habegger ’90, Michael Habegger ‘22 not pictured: Susan Habegger ‘19
CLHS MISSION
Concordia Lutheran High School pursues Christ-centered educational excellence that equips individuals for lifelong learning and service as disciples of Jesus Christ.
Concordia Lutheran High School 1601 St. Joe River Drive Fort Wayne, Ind. 46805 www.clhscadets.com
The path set before us also provides our Lutheran community the opportunity to re-imagine how we steward the blessing that is Concordia Lutheran High School.
Our high school is embarking on a philanthropic journey of magnificent scale, strategic investment, and renewed purpose as you'll read more about within this edition of Cadets Magazine. These projects are critical and improvements to our campus are required to allow us to continue providing Christ-centered educational excellence to future generations of Concordia Cadets. The path set before us also provides our Lutheran community the opportunity to re-imagine how we steward the blessing that is Concordia Lutheran High School.
The spiritual, academic, and social foundations provided by our high school shape, mold, and guide the span of our lives both personally and professionally. We owe it to those who have gone before and will come after us to make Concordia Lutheran High School a priority in our prayer life, our annual giving, and community engagement.
The process that has brought us to this critical time in our high school’s history has been carefully and meticulously thought through. The work done by the steering committee and input we have received from our stakeholders clearly indicates we are ready for this moment. Our high school conducted a feasibility study last spring with a cross-section of our donors who showed a high level of confidence that now is the time, the plans are appropriate in scope, and our Concordia community is ready to financially support these plans.
My confirmation verse is Joshua 1:9; “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” This verse has been my inspiration, my resolve, and at times my life-preserver since I was fourteen. Knowing this moment will require not only the full financial support of our Lutheran community, but also support from community leaders and organizations that haven’t previously contributed to His ministry here at CLHS; our leadership has been amazed (but not particularly surprised) at how the Lord continues to fling wide the doors of opportunity for us and make His presence known.
This past July, the Board of Directors at The Lutheran Foundation asked to hold a site visit here at our high school to coincide with their regular meeting. After reviewing site plans, donor data, and enrollment projections; their Board of Directors unanimously approved a resolution to provide a matching gift to Concordia Lutheran High School of $8 million over the course of the next four years! That resolution was approved by an overwhelming 96% of the eligible delegates. This unprecedented display of trust and investment in our high school will serve as a catalyst as we speak with another local foundation and community leaders to meet the match as quickly as we can over the next few months. What an amazing opportunity the Lord has provided us with!
Former political prisoner turned President of South Africa Nelson Mandela shared in a 2001 speech, “It always seems impossible until it is done.” Our high school hasn’t dared to attempt a capital campaign of this magnitude in its 90-year history. The amount of money required to fulfill the scope of these projects may seem impossible; however, our research shows it truly can be done. According to the results of a third party feasibility study, our Lutheran community has the capacity to provide between $15 and $20 million over the course of the next five years. Additionally, our research indicates other local foundations have the capacity to provide up to an additional $5 million in financial support. Along with the $2 million already received from estate and other gifts, we are well on our way to watching God make the impossible a reality for us.
We do, indeed, step forward boldly on the path set before us knowing Concordia Lutheran High School belongs to our Lord and He will bless our efforts according to His plan. Please reach out to me with any questions and don’t forget to keep our efforts in your prayers.
by Matt Konow CHIEF ADVANCEMENT OFFICER
DIRECT GIFTS
FUTURE
Estate Planning Opportunities
2024 Athletic
HALL OF FAME
THE
CONCORDIA LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME AWARDS, RECOGNIZES, AND HONORS OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS OF ATHLETES, COACHES, AND OTHERS WHO HAVE MADE SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ATHLETIC PROGRAM.
BRUCE BERNING, CLASS OF 1970 BASEBALL, BASKETBALL AND FOOTBALL
Bruce Berning was a multisport athlete while at Concordia. As part of the Baseball team (4 years), he was named to the all-regional team in 1970 and was an all-state team finalist in 1969. While playing on the Varsity Basketball team (2 years), Bruce was a top 20 scorer among players in Ft. Wayne in 1970 and was recognized as the teams best defensive player his senior year. In addition, he played Football for two years and earned eight total varsity letters in his time at Concordia Lutheran High School.
Bruce went on to play baseball collegiately at Southern Colorado University. Following his playing career, he earned two master’s degrees, his first in recreation administration from Indiana University (1976) and his second in education from University of Denver (1994). He worked in recreation administration from 1977-1993 and made a shift to elementary education and high school coaching from 1995-2019. As a coach, Bruce was recognized as an honoree for National Girls and Women in Sports Day in 2019.
Bruce is married to Jackie Berning whom he met while he was playing baseball in college. Jackie currently works as a professor and a department chair at the University of Colorado - Colorado Springs. Bruce and Jackie have two sons, Matt and Kevin. Both followed in their father’s footsteps by playing multiple sports when they were in high school. Matt currently works as a sports medicine clinic manager and Kevin is currently taking classes for his MBA.
Bruce and his wife enjoy travelling around the U.S. and to Europe. He still very much enjoys attending sporting events and playing senior tennis. His fondest memory while at Concordia was playing as one of the final four baseball teams at the state tournament in Indianapolis.
His advice for teachers and coaches is to show fairness and respect to every student and athlete. And for students, he recommends staying involved after graduation.
HANNAH (OSBORN) HOFFMAN, CLASS OF 2010
GYMNASTICS, CROSS COUNTRY, DIVE AND TRACK & FIELD
While at Concordia, Hannah Hoffman participated in Cross Country (4 years), Gymnastics (Fr, So), Diving (Junior, Senior) and Track & Field (4 years). She was a 7x individual state qualifier, 8x individual state medalist, and a 1x individual state champion. Hannah continued her athletic career at Grand Valley State University (GVSU) and had a very successful collegiate Cross Country and Track career as a Laker. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Clinical Exercise Science from GVSU and a Master of Science degree in Management and Leadership from Western Governors University. She currently works in Fort Wayne at Physicians Health Plan as their health & wellness coordinator.
Hannah is married to Logan Hoffman, also a graduate of CLHS, and they have two children, a 4-year old daughter named Annika and a 2-year old son named Jude. When she is not spending time with friends and family, she enjoys staying active and healthy by training and competing in triathlons. She is currently training for the Ironman 70.3 World Championship taking place this December in New Zealand. As a creative outlet, Hannah enjoys embroidering and has a small business called Baeb & Buddy where she creates custom handembroidered knits for children.
While looking back and acknowledging the amazing events and outcomes through Hannah’s athletic career at Concordia Lutheran High School, she believes it is really about the journey and the relationships she remembers and appreciates the most. From the amazing teammates that turned into lifelong friendships, the knowledgeable coaches in all four of her disciplines, having the unique opportunity of being coached by her dad, Gregg Osborn, and meeting her husband, she is grateful for the memories and experiences that Concordia provided her and will forever cherish her four years as a Cadet.
Hannah’s advice to current teachers, coaches, and students at Concordia is to have fun and don’t be afraid to try something new.
TIMOTHY REINKING, CLASS OF 1978 BOYS BASKETBALL COACH
Tim Reinking coached Boys Basketball for 23 years at Concordia. For 12 of those seasons, he served as head coach with a career record of 162-101.
During his time as head coach, he led the program to three SAC Championships, two sectional championships, one regional championship and two holiday tournament championships. Coach Reinking was twice named the SAC Coach of the Year in 1999 and 2000 and the IBCA District Two Coach of the Year in the same two seasons.
Mr. Reinking, who is semi-retired, has been a teacher for more than forty years and has taught at Concordia since 1994. Tim is married to Carol Reinking who has been a teacher at Homestead for 32 years. Their son Jacob Reinking lives in Indianapolis with his wife Lauren and their son Lewis. Tim enjoys playing strategy games, hosting trivia nights, basking in warm weather and spending time at the lake. Tim loves spending time with his family and friends as well as watching the Chicago White Sox and Indianapolis Colts. In 2019 Tim completed his goal of attending games at all of the MLB stadiums and plans on completing his goal of attending games at all of the NFL stadiums in the near future. He also enjoys watching Indiana University Basketball.
Tim’s fondest memory at Concordia is coaching Boys Basketball, developing life-long relationships, and winning championships.
His advice for teachers, coaches and students is to pray hard, work hard and respect the sport above individual accomplishment.
ERIC TAYLOR, CLASS OF 1969 BASEBALL, BASKETBALL AND FOOTBALL
Eric Taylor played Baseball, Basketball and Football all four years while he was a student at Concordia. In baseball, he was a member of the 1969 NEIC All-Conference Team and played in the IHSAA State Championship Tournament. He was also the Downtown Sertoma Award winner and Police Athletic League Sportsmanship Award winner that year. In basketball he was a member of the 1968-1969 All-City Team and in 1968 was named First Team All-City in football.
Professionally, Eric served as an assistant professor, assistant Instrumental director, and coach at Vincennes University Junior College early in his career. He worked for 11 years as the assistant vice president of sales at Ohio Life Insurance Company and then served as assistant vice president of sales at Cincinnati Life Insurance Company for 22 years. He retired in 2017.
Eric is married to Susan Taylor who is in her 38th year of teaching first and second grades. Eric and Susan have two daughters, Kirstin Offenbacher (Mark) and Erica Taylor as well as two grand-children, Lillian and Charlie.
Eric enjoys playing 80-90 rounds of golf every year. He also serves as president of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Cincinnati, Ohio where he has played organ and piano for the past 34 years.
His fondest memory of Concordia is the guidance and encouragement that was given to him by his coaches and teammates.
Eric’s advice to teachers, coaches and students is to always keep your Lord and Savior number one in your life.
Athletic Hall of Fame Recognition Night, Zollner Stadium, August 23, 2024
BRANNON (SPRINGER) WAKELAND, CLASS OF 2010 GYMNASTICS
Brannon Wakeland was a high-level competitor on the Gymnastics team for three years, having to sit out her sophomore season with a torn ACL. She placed highly in multiple events at the sectional and regional levels every year she was competing. At the state competition her freshman year, Brannon placed 1st on the bars, 6th in the floor competition and 7th all around. Returning to state competition her senior year, she placed 3rd on the balance beam, 4th on the vault, and 5th place all around.
Following high school, Brannon earned a B.S. in biochemistry from Purdue University and an M.S. in occupational safety management from Indiana State. She started her career as an analytical chemist. She became a project manager in 2019 and has successfully helped launch hundreds of products and projects. She is currently a senior project manager at Lincoln Financial.
Brannon has been married for eight years to her husband Aaron Wakeland. The couple have two children, Chloe, age seven, and Landon, age five. They live on a family farm in Auburn where they enjoy spending time outdoors, swimming in the pool, riding UTVs, having campfires, and their kids love ensuring the chickens have enough human contact. Brannon also enjoys gardening in her spare time.
CORTNEY ASHFORD
HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST
Cortney Ashford attended Snider High School and then graduated from Purdue-Fort Wayne with a bachelor's in human resources management.
She worked with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for about seven years in both direct care and as an employment specialist. Cortney then worked in recruiting and managing temporary employees for two years. She has sat on the Board of Directors of Young Professionals for two years as the treasurer and then membership chair.
Cortney enjoys reading, being outdoors, thrifting, and spending time with her husband and son.
SIERRA BECKER
ADMISSIONS COUNSELOR
Sierra Becker graduated from the University of Saint Francis, earning a bachelor's degree in communication and a minor in marketing. After college, Sierra met her husband Chris, and they settled down in northeast Fort Wayne.
Previously, Sierra has worked in sales at 21 Alive WPTA, as well as the Care Ministry department for Pathway Community Church. It was there Sierra discovered her love for caring for people and providing hope and healing in all seasons of life. Most recently, Sierra has been a stay-at-home mom to two precious little girls: Jolie and Lily. During this time, Sierra helped facilitate a monthly mom group at Pathway called Mom2Mom, where she was able to encourage and serve moms through ministry by creating a safe space for community, conversation, and fellowship.
Sierra loves spending time with her family, bike riding, reading, cooking, gardening, thrifting, and discovering new local coffee shops around town.
The thing that she is most looking forward to about working at Concordia is connecting with current and potential students and their families. She loves meeting new people, hearing their stories, and providing help and guidance to as many as she can.
NICKOLE BOHNKE
STUDENT INTERVENTIONIST
Nickole Bohnke started as a student interventionist for the 2024-2025 school year. She has a BA in communications from the University of Saint Francis. Nickole went back to school to become a math teacher and did her student teaching right here at Concordia Lutheran High School under the supervision of Mr. Kevin Macke. Since then, she has been a substitute teacher at another high school in the area before working at her stepfather’s business. She is looking forward to being back in the education field at CLHS.
AUDREY GILBERT DIRECTOR OF ANNUAL GIVING
Audrey Gilbert, a Concordia alum from Audrey Gilbert, a Concordia alum from the Class of 2008, joined the CLHS staff in December 2023 as the Director of Annual Giving.
She earned her bachelor’s degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management from Purdue Fort Wayne in 2012. Audrey then dedicated nearly 12 years to Erin’s House for Grieving Children, where she developed her expertise in a variety of fundraising roles.
Audrey and her husband, Chris, are proud parents to three children—Macey, Owen, and Halle. The family attends St. Peter's Lutheran Church, where the kids are also students. Go Wildcats!
In her free time, Audrey enjoys spending time with her kids, reading mystery and thriller novels, watching HGTV, and playing golf with Chris.
AMANDA GLEAVE
SCHOOL COUNSELOR
Amanda Gleave is a 1991 graduate of Concordia Lutheran High School. She started at Concordia as a school counselor in the 2024-2025 school year. She is here to help and support students with academic skills, social/emotional needs and to provide career and college counseling.
She holds a bachelor's degree in sociology and psychology and a master's degree in school counseling. She enjoys spending time with her four children, cooking and entertaining.
JENNIFER HAYWORTH
SCIENCE TEACHER
Jennifer Hayworth is a native of Fort Wayne, IN and has a BS in Secondary Education from IPFW. She taught chemistry at South Side High School prior to having children. While teaching she was also involved with coaching multiple basketball and volleyball teams. She is married to Rob Hayworth, and they have four kids. In her free time, she enjoys serving at her church, spending time with Jesus, reading, gardening, hiking, being with friends, and watching her kids' sporting events.
LUCAS KOEHLER
PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER
Lucas Koehler grew up an LCMS Lutheran attending Immanuel Lutheran grade school in Belvidere, IL and then made his way to Rockford Lutheran High School in Rockford, IL. He graduated from Concordia University Ann Arbor in 2017 with a Bachelor’s of Exercise Science degree.
Lucas spent the last five years as the director of strength and conditioning at Concordia University Ann Arbor. Prior to his role at CUAA, he served in various roles in the fitness industry. Most notable was his time as an intern at Eastern Michigan University in the sports performance department serving the strength and conditioning and nutrition areas. He also served as a part-time assistant coach at a local high school near the university.
He is blessed with a wonderful growing family: his wife Richelle and their 11-month-old son, Jameson.
TARA PANNING
MATH TEACHER
Tara Panning has a Bachelor’s of Science in Math Education and a Masters of Arts in Actuarial Science both from Ball State University. She worked as a pension plan consultant at Mercer Human Resource Consulting for five years before becoming a stay at home mom. In 2009, Tara began teaching a couple of sections of algebra at PFW and transitioned to teaching a couple of sections of statistics at PFW in more recent years.
Tara and her husband Brent, along with their three children, Lexi, Hunter and Austin, attend St. Michael Lutheran Church.
ANYSSA SCAER
SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER
Anyssa Scaer is a passionate teacher committed to Lutheran education. Anyssa's journey toward becoming a Lutheran school teacher was inspired by her experiences as a student in Lutheran schools. Motivated by this calling, she pursued her studies at Concordia University Nebraska, where she was able to study education and graduated in December of 2017 with a B.S. in Secondary Education and a Lutheran Teacher's Diploma. In April 2024, she received her M.S. in Psychology from Indiana Institute of Technology.
Having started her teaching career in Michigan, Anyssa soon found her way to Fort Wayne to join her now-husband, whom she met in middle school. Before serving at Concordia Lutheran High School, she spent five years serving as a middle school teacher, specializing in social studies and English language arts.
Outside of the school day, Anyssa finds joy in spending quality time with her daughter and husband. When she isn't teaching, you may find her cooking, reading, or spending time outside. Anyssa and her family are members of Ascension Lutheran Church.
REBEKAH STAUB
SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER
Rebekah Staub joined the faculty in the 20242025 school year. She is a 2003 graduate of CLHS and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Concordia University Chicago. Before coming to CLHS, she interned for Senator Richard Lugar in Washington, D.C., taught in Tisovec, Slovakia at a Lutheran high school, taught at a Lutheran school on Maui, HI, and taught at Emmanuel-St. Michael in Fort Wayne. Rebekah and her husband Jeremy have three children.
ALANNAH WEANDER STUDENT INTERVENTIONIST
Alannah Weander joined the Concordia staff in the 2024-2025 school year as the new student interventionist in the study center.
She is a 2020 graduate of Valley Lutheran High School in Saginaw, Michigan and a 2024 graduate of Concordia University in Seward, Nebraska. Alannah received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science with a minor in Spanish. She spent her time at Concordia University participating in A Cappella, Chamber Choir, and Wind Symphony.
Alannah was born in Saginaw, Michigan and enjoys making memories with her mom, dad, and younger sister Jaden when she visits home. In her free time she enjoys drinking coffee, traveling with her husband Isaac, and thrift shopping
ISAAC WEANDER
DIRECTOR OF CHOIRS, THEOLOGY TEACHER
Isaac Weander joined Concordia in 2024-25 as the Director of Choirs. He is a graduate of Lutheran High Northeast in Norfolk, Nebraska and received his undergraduate degree from Concordia University, Nebraska. Isaac holds a Bachelor’s of Music in K-12 Vocal and Instrumental Music Education, as well as his Lutheran Teacher Diploma.
During his time at Concordia Nebraska Isaac participated in several musical ensembles including the Wind Symphony, A Cappella and Chamber choirs. Isaac also had the honor of being selected as the Student Conductor of the A Cappella choir during his junior year.
Isaac was born and raised in Norfolk, Nebraska and currently resides locally with his wife Alannah. In his spare time Isaac enjoys taking road trips, hiking, cooking, reading dystopian novels, and spending quality time with family and friends.
“Everyone was committed from day one to do their best. The opportunities produced from their efforts are almost unmatched. The respect they have for each other is appreciated. Their willingness to endure pain and become stronger is extraordinary."
Using Psalm 33:4 as their theme verse for the season, the Concordia boys soccer team was strong to the CORE (Commitment, Opportunity, Respect, and Endurance).
As August faded to November, the team got stronger and stronger. After a regular season that saw the team finish 10-6, the squad earned Sectional, Regional, and Semi-State titles in a playoff run that saw them defeat the #2 team in the state, Bishop Luers. The team only gave up two goals in five games en route to the state championship match against Evansville Reitz Memorial, the #1 team in the state. After a hard-fought state championship game, the Cadets came up just a bit short in a 2-0 loss. Cadet senior Andrew Bostwick was awarded the Mental Attitude Award by the IHSAA at the conclusion of the match.
Coach Macke added this postscript to the 2024 season – “Everyone was committed from day one to do their best. The opportunities produced from their efforts are almost unmatched. The respect they have for each other is appreciated. Their willingness to endure pain and become stronger is extraordinary. The eight seniors' leadership,
and enforcing these (CORE) traits both on and off the field, is what led to the team's success this fall season. The core we built through physical training, mental training and spiritual training I pray continues for each of these young men for years to come.”
by Tim Mannigel ATHLETICS DIRECTOR
Mental Attitude Award Winner, Andrew Bostwick and family
Cross Country Teams do Well at State
Congratulations to the CLHS XC Girls Cross Country Team! The Cadets are the Indiana Girls State Runners Up! With a team 2nd place finish at the IHSAA State XC Championship, the team came through with an impressive point total of 92 and team average time of 18:18. The Cadets were led by Individual State Champ - Mallory Weller 17:12.19, 8th place - Daphne Weller 17:56.00, 32nd place Brylee Crass - 18:39.04, 51st place - Hannah Clark 18:52.55, 57th placeLilly Schlicker 18:54.61 70th place - Maddie Gentz 19:01.17, and 107th place - Ellie Walters 20:08.24.
Finally, congratulations to our Boys XC Team who finished 23rd overall and were led by Will Schlegel with an All-State performance at the IHSAA State XC Championship! With a personal record time of 15:36.52, Will finished 24th in the State. He was joined by teammates 126th place - Hunter Panning 16:30.7, 169th place - Cillian Hoover 16:47, 229th place - Zachary Cecil 17:30.8, 232nd place - Karsten Sheets 17:36.3, 244th place - Jack Habegger 18:17.2, and 246th place - Connor Creutz 18:17.2.
Record-Breaking Year: Mallory Weller Shines
Concordia Lutheran High School junior Mallory Weller capped off an incredible fall sports season by becoming the Indiana State Champion in cross country, solidifying her place as the fastest distance runner in school history. Mallory, the daughter of alumni Chad and Joy (Willig) Weller, began her running journey at St. Peter’s Lutheran School with LutheRun XC and quickly rose to prominence.
This season, Mallory shattered school records on the track in the 3200m (10:24.94), 1600m (4:49.10), and 800m (2:09.77). She also anchored Concordia’s 4x800 relay team to a State Championship and school record (9:00.52). Her success carried over to cross country, where she dominated
This Year’s Marching Band Theme:
"Seasons of Hope"
The 2024 marching show was called Seasons of Hope. We used the four seasons as a way to visualize the seasons of life. Throughout the entire show, our color guard’s flags and costumes are bursting with color, too!
Summer: day-to-day life - it's not outstanding but you certainly can’t complain! During this movement, there is a playful setting of the beloved hymn, Beautiful Savior.
Fall: While the colorful trees are wonderful to look at, nature is in the process of dying. This is where sin creeps in, or something goes wrong in your life and you really start to question things. Musically, Beautiful Savior turns to the minor mode, and you’ll also hear “Autumn” by Vivaldi.
Winter: During this movement, everything slows down - musically we play “In the Bleak Midwinter”. In nature, everything has died and all the color is gone. In our lives, we feel alone and don't know where to turn - things are looking *bleak*.
invitationals, Sectional, and Regional races before claiming the State title with a PR time of 17:12.20. Her decisive move in the final kilometer fueled her team to a State Runner-Up finish for the second straight year.
Beyond her records, Mallory’s work ethic and leadership set her apart. “She’s one of the hardest workers I’ve coached,” said Coach Scott Steffen. “Her dedication inspires her teammates and defines our team culture.” With her talent and determination, Mallory’s historic year highlights her as one of Indiana’s elite athletes and a role model for future Cadet runners.
by Erin Clark
Spring: We rejoice that nature doesn’t stay dormant. Warmth returns, and the trees and flowers come back to life. Christ gives us NEW LIFE through His death and resurrection. For that we celebrate!!
We end the show with our props in the shape of a cross with the color guard standing on top of them, and the band standing in the shape of the Christian Fish. We pray that is a reminder for everyone that no matter what season of life you may be going through - a season of grief or a season of joy, we can take comfort knowing that through Christ, we are always in a Season of Hope.
HOPE knowing that He is with us every step of the way. HOPE that His love is unconditional. HOPE that we will one day live with Him in Heaven.
by Jennifer Porath DIRECTOR OF BANDS
CLHS’s proposal includes the addition of 49,283 square feet of new academic space as a three-story addition, connecting the existing academic and activities buildings and infilling the alley that currently separates the two.
LOOKING BACK 90 YEARS OF BOLD STEPS
leader of the Reformation, actively promoted the idea of widespread education and influenced the development of new schools. These schools were not to be limited to the elite, calling for the establishment of parish schools where all children could learn to read, write, and prepare for their roles in society. This was a bold initiative 500 years ago and these principles remain the backbone of Lutheran Christian education in America: excellent education accessible to every family for the purpose of preparing productive citizens and nurturing faith for eternity.
Throughout our history, Concordia Lutheran High School has forged a bold path guided by unwavering faith. In 1935, the Missouri Synod and local Lutheran leaders called on courage and faith when they decided to establish a Lutheran high school in Fort Wayne. CLHS was first located on the Concordia College campus. After twelve
Great Depression, the local Lutheran community worked together to raise enough money to purchase 1.93 acres of land on the corner of Maumee and Anthony in 1949, the current location of Indiana Tech. In September of 1952, after 17 years spent using only college facilities, the high school finally had its own building that provided space for 500 students.
Over the next decade God blessed Concordia’s bold steps mightily. Enrollment grew steadily and in 1963, our leadership again showed courage and faith when Concordia moved to its current location. Our school’s leadership had the vision to build a 100,000 square foot high school on St. Joe River Drive. Just ten years later in 1974, Concordia undertook a major expansion, adding a music wing, an auxiliary gym, an expanded library, art facilities, and a chapel-auditorium.
Original Concordia Campus Building Circa 1935
Students and Faculty Photo Circa 1936
Subsequent additions and renovations have included:
1990: Physical Fitness Center (PFC)
1995: Additions to the activity wing, Media Center, science, and art rooms
2000: Expanded cafeteria and Worship Conference Center
We can look back on 90 years of courageous leaders who were led to take bold steps to ensure excellence in Christian education was available in the formative high school years. Today, it’s time for our generation to take a bold step to give our students an accessible, inspiring, safe, hands-on, 21st-century learning experience that lives up to Concordia’s reputation as one of the country’s finest Lutheran secondary schools. Our students already lead the region in character, integrity, and academic excellence. As we look toward the future, our faith and vision calls us to ensure our facility keeps pace.
A BOLD STEP FOR TODAY
As far back as 20 years ago, Concordia’s leadership understood that our current facility was facing significant costs to replace major systems (HVAC, roofing, windows,
curtain wall, etc). There have been previous attempts to develop a plan for this deferred maintenance. However, a comprehensive effort to move forward on these realities was never executed.
In 2018, the Concordia Educational Association (CEA) Board of Directors conducted a feasibility study on the possibility of moving to a new location. The study resulted in a commitment to remain at the current property for the following reasons:
• It positions CLHS more centrally to the Lutheran churches and schools of the CEA.
• It is a priority to serve the ministry of the Church and to be a valuable mission outpost in this community.
• This location provides access to a more diverse community for current and future students.
Concordia Lutheran High School will remain at 1601 St. Joe River Drive because we believe its location provides the best opportunity for us to serve the church, to continue our mission of providing excellent Christian education, and best positions Concordia to provide leadership for all the elementary schools within our region.
Yet, a decision to remain at this location also requires a significant investment to replace and restore the aging and outdated systems and spaces in our current facilities. Working with strategic professional partners, Concordia’s leadership has conducted a feasibility study, crafted a sustainability plan, and built an attainable business model around enrollment projections. Both leadership and feedback from town hall focus groups agree that the time to act is now.
Southwest view of a fully renovated academic building*
After careful exploration of a number of solutions, the CEA Board of Directors adopted a bold solution at the recommendation of the steering committee. CLHS’s proposal includes the addition of 49,283 square feet of new academic space as a three-story addition, connecting the existing academic and activities buildings and infilling the alley that currently separates the two.
The academic wing and auditorium projects also include 94,629 square feet of renovated space that creates 21stcentury learning environments, a completely remodeled auditorium, and a replacement of HVAC, windows and curtain wall, and roofing systems. The proposed design allows for ADA accessibility to all locations and greatly improves campus security. In all, these designs position CLHS to more effectively and efficiently carry out its mission in a facility that meets the current standard for educational excellence.
WHO GIVES US SUCH COURAGE TO BE SO BOLD?
As a leader, I’m not naturally inclined to take uncalculated risks. I’m practical, systematic, and mostly conventional in my decision making. Yes, all that confirms that I’m very Lutheran. That means I prefer to not rush into decisions that lead to change without a great deal of certainty that it is necessary and provides for a preferred future outcome.
In Matthew 14 we are provided the Biblical narrative of Peter’s walk on water with Jesus. It’s important to note that Peter’s bold step out of the boat wasn’t a brash risk, but rather it was an act of obedience. As the disciples boat
was buffeted by the wind and the waves Peter called out to Jesus who was already walking on the water saying, “‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.’ He (Jesus) said, ‘Come.’ So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus.”
With Peter’s bold step of obedience as an example, I’m convinced that there is clear indication that God is calling for courage in this moment. There is strong alignment from stakeholders of all kinds for this vision. Financial support for Concordia has grown significantly each of the past 3 years. Enrollment projections point toward significant growth and a financial sustainability plan is in place.
Like Peter stepping out of the boat to walk on water, we are being called to step out of our comfort zone and take courage in God’s plan, knowing His greatest gifts are made possible through bold action and unwavering faith. When we follow our calling, we allow God’s love to transform our community. When we act boldly, we demonstrate our obedience. And when we step out in faith, we trust that God will not let us fail.
by Jacob Pennekamp HEAD OF SCHOOL Concordia Lutheran High School
Media-learning hub provides inspiring space for learning and collaboration*
Expanded auditorium lobby, ground level entrance, ADA accessibility, new restrooms*
Auditorium with new seating orientation and acoustical treatments*
A Teacher Whose Reign Always Pointed to the King Who Reigns Above
For more than 40 years, Mr. Reinking has been greeting students in the doorway of his classroom with a smile and a high five, opening the class with a daily joke pulled from his collection.
Once the class got started, however, it wasn’t just jokes and riddles. Given the challenging task of teaching social studies and religion, he never shied away from the tough topics such as discussing sacrificial, Christ-centered relationships and debating solutions to homelessness. No matter the topic, he shared counter-cultural Christian truths with gentleness and respect.
His classes offered practical application as well, including the time he brought in oranges for our entire class just to show us how to properly peel them in one take (hint: the key is to roll the fruit around first.) He taught on the importance of being a present parent and reiterated the importance to working hard as a spouse, life advice students took with them beyond their high school years.
Mr. Reinking is regarded as one of the elite educators whose content and character sticks with students for decades- this is his legacy.
He began his career teaching at Immanuel Lutheran in Memphis, Tennessee for a year before serving for 10 years at Zion Lutheran and then his last 30 years at CLHS. During his tenure, Mr. Reinking taught a myriad of religion classes and social studies classes, including two AP courses. He’s been nominated four times to Who’s Who Among American Teachers and awarded CLHS Teacher
of the Year, along with the Realizing the Dream Award by Independent Colleges of Indiana. These are just a few of the accolades he has received throughout his outstanding teaching career.
Besides being an exceptional educator, Mr. Reinking was also known as “Coach” by hundreds of basketball players during his 23-year coaching career, with 12 seasons as Head Varsity Boys Basketball Coach. He helped lead the Cadets to three SAC Championships, along with two Sectional Championships and a Regional Championship. With an overall record of 161-101 (Win-Loss), he was twice named SAC Coach of the Year.
However, his love of sports extends beyond the basketball court. An avid White Sox fan, Mr. Reinking crossed “visiting every MLB park” off of his bucket list, with his favorite being Oracle Park, home of the San Francisco Giants. In addition, he served as the Volleyball Athletic Supervisor for the past eight years and even the Table Tennis Club Sponsor for the past five years. After four decades of dedicated service, Mr. Reinking will have more time to pursue his hobbies and spend time with his family, as he officially retires this December. However, his legacy of positivity, encouragement, and humor will continue in the lives of the many students who have been impacted by his ministry.
by
Blythe (Harkenrider) Barreto, ‘09
Tim, thank you for your service to Concordia! Congratulations and God’s blessings on your retirement!
ALUMNI notes
Stay in touch with your classmates! Send your Alumni Notes to alumni@clhscadets.com
1950s
The Class of 1954 celebrated its 70th Reunion at CLHS’ Alumni Worship Service on Saturday, October 5th. Four classmates and four guests attended to recognize this big milestone.
Ruth Everson ’56 competed in the Indiana State Games in Evansville in June of 2024 intending to participate in the National Games in Des Moines, Iowa in 2025. At the athlete's dinner, she was awarded "The Martin Bender Legacy Award." (Dr. Martin Bender is 101 years old and was an active proponent of keeping physically active.) The plaque reads: "Ruth has been a dedicated athlete in the Senior Games and continues participating in the National Senior Games representing Indiana! In her 86 years of life, she exemplifies the attributes of the Martin Bender Legacy Award by choosing to remain active through exercise and sports."
The Class of 1959 celebrated its 65th Class Reunion at Zianos Restaurant in Fort Wayne on Friday, August 23rd, at noon. 15 classmates and 5 guests attended. They had a wonderful time visiting and eating. It was decided that they would try this again next year.
Rosemarie (Stauffer) Springer ’59 shared that she is in good health with 3 daughters and 36 grandchildren.
1960s
Doug Rodenbeck ’62, shared that the CLHS music department presented a wonderful well-received concert at his church, First Lutheran of Knoxville, TN in March. Doug was elected President of the North Knoxville Lions Club.
David McCollister ’63 and his wife Jeri now have two greatgrandchildren: his granddaughter and her husband are stationed at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri after three years in Alaska.
David retired from Lutheran North High School in St. Louis in 2015, having spent 40 years at North and his first seven at Our Saviour Lutheran in New York City, mostly teaching American history. Now he makes presentations to schools, high schools, church groups, and veterans’ groups about 1.) Bunker Hill and the American Revolution, 2.) the Civil War, 3.) American Democracy, History and Education, and 4.) Personal Witness for a chapel presentation. All were done in appropriate uniforms. David is also still coaching cross country and track at North.
In September, the great and humble Class of 1964 celebrated the 60th Anniversary of its CLHS graduation. Twenty-nine members and their spouses gathered for three days of faith, fellowship, and fun. Thanks to Tom Steinhauser and his awesome committee for arranging the Friday night social at Dan and Sharon Dienelt’s home, the Saturday evening banquet at Club Soda, and the Sunday morning worship service and brunch at our high school. We were joined by three of our former teachers, Jack Massucci, Bill Ihssen, and Jon Anderson. The Lord has blessed us with longlasting friendships over these six decades and we thank Him for all the blessings we have received. We can’t wait for our 65th to see one another again. Thank you, Concordia!
The Class of 1969 celebrated its 55th Reunion together on Saturday, October 5th at Ruth (Goeglein) ‘69 & Jerry Ehle’s barn in New Haven. 40 classmates and 30 guests attended the luncheon.
1970s
William Hofrichter ’72 retired in 2019 from the Chief Operating position at Concordia Plans Services and spent 7 months traveling the USA in a motor coach.
Terri (Goeglein) Pierce ’73 celebrated the graduation of her granddaughter Abby with the CLHS Class of 2024!
The Class of 1974 celebrated their 50th reunion during homecoming weekend on Saturday, October 5th at the 400 Club located in centerfield at Parkview Field. Nearly 100 people were in attendance.
Pastor Mike Wakeland ’74 led the Concordia Lutheran High School Alumni Worship Service on October 5th. Pastor Wakeland is the Director of Pastoral Care at Lutheran Life Villages in Fort Wayne and will be retiring at the end of 2024.
Philip Keck ’75 is now partially retired (working part-time). He’s been in construction for 44 years, 25 years being self-employed. He celebrated retirement with a 10-day trip to Alaska.
Michael Mackin ’78 is married with two children, a son in the workforce and a daughter, hoping to become a firefighter/paramedic.
1980s
Jonathon Jacob ’86 recently celebrated his 20th work anniversary as a 911 Dispatcher and Certified Dispatch Training Officer for the Indiana State Police.
Janet (Doehrmann) Steager ’86 bought a new house 4 years ago. They have a daughter who is 24 years old. They live in the country, where it is peaceful and the sunrises and sunsets are beautiful. They celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary on June 21, 2024.
Don Olson ’89 has been married to his wife Sarah since 1995. Together they have four children – Alec, Reagan, Delaney and Sophia.
1990s
Danielle (Braun) Wetzel ’98 began working at the City of Fort Wayne - Community Development - Redevelopment in January of 2024.
2000s
Dr. Kara (Frincke) Bratton PhD ’96 is the recipient of Concordia University Chicago’s Outstanding Graduate Award for her commitment and leadership within Lutheran education.
Brian Smith ’00 started working for the local school district in finance at the beginning of the 2023-24 school year.
Bryan Payton ’04 shared that after nearly ten years as Director of Recruiting with Northwestern University Football, he has started a football recruiting advisory company, BDPRecruiting, LLC. He educates, guides, and advises high school, junior college, and transfer portal recruits and their families through the recruiting process. People can learn more on his website at BDPRecruiting. com.
Andrew Augenstein ’05 and his wife Fay welcomed their child, Norah Gabrielle on August 23, 2024.
Seth Nahrwold ’05 purchased his dad’s veterinary office and now owns and operates Maumee Valley Veterinary Clinic.
Philip LaBrash ’06 was sworn in as the Traffic Engineer for the City of Fort Wayne on June 24, 2024.
Rachael (Hartmann) Wood ’06 recently left teaching and opened Haven Hive, a women’s and children’s boutique in downtown New Haven. You can find her at 504 Broadway Street—and bring the family to join in the fun events on the patio, too!
Amanda (Sauders) Reasonover ’08 married Brandon Reasonover in 2021 and welcomed their child, Maverick Reasonover in 2023.
AJ Bridges ’09 and his wife welcomed a son in December of 2023. They relocated to Phoenix, AZ when he accepted a position as Minor League Clubhouse & Equipment Manager for the San Diego Padres.
2010s
Casey (Short) Crismore ’10 married Zachary Crismore ‘07 on February 13, 2021.
Elizabeth (Rehmer) Greene ’11 married Mike Greene on October 12, 2024.
Ethan Ernst ’15 graduated from Purdue University in May 2019, with a degree in Industrial Management. He is currently working as a Materials Manager for Shuttleworth, in Huntington, Indiana.
Andrew Bower ’16 got engaged to Paris Dirscherl on October 1, 2024. He met Paris in the theater department at Huntington University, and they’ve been dating since 2018. He’s very excited to start planning the rest of his life with her!
Cole ‘17 and Victoria (Miller) Hayward ’17 welcomed their first child, Caroline Kay, on July 6, 2024. Future Cadet in the making!
In Memoriam
July 2023 - June 2024
Elaine (Dressler) Dean 1940
Ruth (Dreyer) Nicolet 1941
James Scherer 1943
Walter Meyer Henline Schoedel 1943
Maxine (Macke) Remenschneider 1944
Norma (Bakalar) Custard 1946
Audrey (Dale) Meyers 1947
Lucille (Hunsicker) Nahrwold 1948
Duane Lupke 1948
Alfred Wick 1948
Dolores (Fathauer) Crilly 1949
Cameron ’18 and Kirsten (Olsen) Bohnke ’17 welcomed their first child, Elaine Jo, on December 20, 2023.
Eli Ernst ‘18, a member of the Purdue All-American Marching Band, and Captain of the Big Bass Drum Crew, participated in the March 2023 St. Patrick's Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland. In May 2023, Eli graduated from Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, with a degree in Social Studies Education. In August 2023, Eli began his master's degree in Instructional Design at Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, with a planned graduation date of May 2025.
Abi Pease ’19 finished up her first year of graduate school for Clinical Mental Health Counseling at PFW.
Tessa Massucci ’19 is a Behavior Therapist at Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center.
Caroline Morrison ’19 is working in Chicago, IL for a steel manufacturer.
Andy Klage ’19 moved to Indianapolis and married his wife Amanda in the Summer of 2024; now teaching social studies at Warren Central High School.
Savannah Smallwood ’19 graduated summa cum laude with bachelor’s degrees in Political Science and Sociology with a Concentration in Criminology from Saint Mary’s College in May of 2023. She is now working full-time as a Field Representative for Congressman Rudy Yakym, who represents Indiana’s Second District in the United States House of Representatives.
Michelle (Arias) Hoffman ’19 married on July 13, 2024. She graduated in May of 2024 with a BSN and 2 minors in psychology and Spanish. She works as an RN at PRMC Medical ICU.
Joseph Chandler ’19 graduated from Purdue University. He moved to Cincinnati and now is working full-time as a video creator for Black Tent/LimeLite Productions.
Emma (Rekeweg) Fairfield ’19 and Michael Fairfield ’19 were united in marriage in June of 2024. Emma graduated from Purdue University (West Lafayette) Summa Cum Laude in Biomedical Health Sciences and is now attending Indiana University School of Dentistry in Indianapolis, IN, pursuing a DDS degree with a graduation date of May 2027. Michael is a firefighter and paramedic for the Goshen Fire Department.
William Berning 1949
Velda (Strouse) Dose 1949
Lois (Fisher) Brockhoff 1950
Carol (Luce) Simerman 1950
Thomas Schoenherr 1951
Gerald Kanning 1951
Kathryn (Jacobs) Powell 1951
Ronald Scheele 1951
Gloria (Bolz) Reibs 1951
Shirley (Nahrwold) Bohner 1952
Jacqueline (Bender) Heckler 1952
Donald Richter 1954
George Alleger 1954
Sharon (Weber) Heinemeir 1955
Joyce (Lepper) King 1956
Judith (Marks) Winters 1961
Donna (Colicho) Lagemann 1961
Fred Schmeling 1963
Susan Koehlinger 1964 Eugene Chase 1965
Nancy (Leitz) Widmann
Karen (Gongwer) Grant 1968
Barbara (Schroeder) Knoblauch 1969 Jule (Kaiser) Shively 1969
Schroeder 1972 Carol (Dieckman) Mack 1973 Lisa (Klage) Wetzel 1974
Nommay 1978 David Uffelman 1981 Jeffrey Peterson 1987
Anne (Klopsch) Dean 1956 Richard Ridley 1956
a label.
Charlie Reid ’19 is a full-time firefighter/EMT with West Central Fire District, part-time EMT with Three Rivers Ambulance Authority (TRAA), part-time firefighter/EMT with Southwest Fire District, and volunteer firefighter/EMT with Roanoke Volunteer Fire Department.
Taylor Burford ’19 is a probation agent for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections.
Sydney Webber ’19 graduated from the University of Cincinnati in 2023. She is working for COhatch in Cincinnati, OH as a Community Manager.
2020s
Michael Habegger ’22 is the owner and operator of Out The Box Media and creator of the 2024 CLHS Homecoming Court video which parodied the sitcom 'Friends' and went viral on social media.
Noah Werner ’19 works remotely from home with Guitar Center. He is playing and producing music with his band which now is signed with
Faculty and Staff Accomplishments
Deborah Rockrohr Deaconess Rockrohr attended the Concordia Deaconess Conference's 3-day professional development conference in June.
Mindy Walz, participated in the APTIP Mock Exam training and scoring session. This opportunity provided valuable feedback from other teachers and AP readers for the AP Literature students as they prepared for their exam. She also received the IHSAA Champion Educator Award during the Boys Soccer State Championship game “in recognition of a teacher who makes a significant impact in the education of student athletes.”
Tim Reinking Served as an AP Psychology National Exam Reader.
Eric Kaschinske Mr. Kaschinske was accepted to the Marine Corps Educators Workshop and attended the workshop in San Diego in February. He began leading the boys tennis team this fall and was accepted to lead a session at the tri-state Connections Conference in November. Finally, Mr. Kaschinske was awarded the Concordia Faculty Service Award for the 2023-2024 school year.
Phil Brackmann served the IBCA (Indiana Basketball Coaches Association) as a District 1 Representative.
He played a huge role in hosting the Allen County School Safety Reunification Exercise at CLHS which had 200+ educators and first responders from across the county working together to make our area schools safer. Additionally, he was named the Latitude 64 West Swinney Disc Golf Champion!
Heidi Wilkinson took part in the Allen County School Safety Commission’s Evacuation & Reunification exercise. She also summited Longs Peak over the summer!
Katie Underwood won a Gold Medal at the Art of Education Art teacher Olympics during the 2024 NOW conferences. Additionally, she taught a senior citizen watercolor class at The Chapel.
Brian Loesel trained to develop a new, extensive, online Anatomy learning platform/curriculum called Visible Body.
Chad Hoover Pastor Hoover has been a frequent contributor to the ministry of Higher Things (a recognized service organization of the LCMS whose mission is to make the gifts of Christ Jesus known to youth and young adults). In addition to providing several video shorts for publication on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, Pastor led a breakout at the Higher Things Conference at the University of the Ozarks this past summer. He was also asked to preach at one of the daily services and sit on a panel along with three other pastors to field theological questions from youth in attendance at the conference. More information about Higher Things can be found at higherthings.org.
Corrie Oberlin Nurse Oberlin was awarded Concordia’s Staff Service Award for the 2023-2024 school year.
Jeanine Tietz participated in the AP TIP-IN Mock Exam in March to give our AP Lang students an opportunity to take a full AP English Language Exam and to practice scoring the essays with a group of AP teachers from across the state.
In July, she spent a day doing an Educator Externship at Precise Manufacturing in Fort Wayne learning about the needs of our community in the trades and which students often excel in trade careers. Additionally, she learned they manufacture two parts of the Jaws of Life right here in Fort Wayne!
Kyle Jane is leading a cohort of Lutheran science teachers in seven sessions throughout the '24-'25 school year in bringing technology into our classroom and curriculum more effectively.
Additionally, he led the CANstruction group of students as they collected and assembled a structure of 3600 cans of food into a replica of the Olympic stadium and pool before donating the cans of food to the Community Harvest Food Bank. In December of '23 he led an initiative of Koinonia groups at CLHS to provide Christmas meals, toys, and clothing to 26 needy families in Allen County.
Jennifer Porath was awarded the Concordia’s Teacher of the Year Award for the 2023-2024 school year.
Luanne Erdos oversaw Honors Academy activities including 10 senior presentations which culminated their Honors Academy Senior Research Projects. Leadership Speaker Summits included Stacey Dumbacher from Run Hard. Rest Well. in October and Ms. Tinea Agen, music therapist with Fort Wayne Dance Collective and Ms. Cindy Maldonado-Schaefer with Erin's House in March.
Mrs. Erdos also oversees CLHS DECA which had 43 members during the 23-24 school year. Forty one students competed at the district level with 28 students qualifying to advance to state competition in Indianapolis. Five students qualified to advance to ICDC (International Career Development Competition and Conference) in Anaheim, CA. The following 4 students competed: Paikea Early-Aden, Sophie Stevenson, Kathryn Crook and Jack Habegger. Jack Habegger made the international stage for his Product-Service Management role play performance.
Theodore Hoham wrote and recorded Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany devotions for Worship Anew to be broadcast on military installations around the world via the Armed Forces Network.
What a joyful blessing it was for our high school to host Keith and Kristyn Getty in concert at Concordia in October! It was also an outstanding opportunity for our very own A Cappella Choir to be featured guests throughout the entire concert! Thank you to everyone who was able to join us for this amazing experience! This was the first concert of this magnitude to be held in the gymnasium at CLHS.
GETTY CONCERT FILLS “THE CAGE” FOR UNIQUE NIGHT OF WORSHIP MUSIC
MR. LACROIX
Mr. Tim LaCroix is a German and theology teacher at Concordia Lutheran High School. He began teaching 1985. He originally started at Sheboygan public school in Wisconsin, and then came to Concordia. He has taught all five choirs at Concordia, four levels of German, religion classes, and humanities which focused on art and culture through history. The thing that has changed most during his time here is the block schedule (instead of having every class everyday, we have odd classes on one day, and even classes on another). His favorite part of teaching is when students have “light bulb moments.” He loves when a curious student finally makes sense of what they are learning. He says you can see when it all clicks for them. His biggest piece of advice to someone wanting to teach is, “don’t get bogged down by the frustrations that come with teaching.” He has enjoyed his career as an educator, and enjoys seeing his students learn and succeed.
MS. HOLTSLANDER
Ms. Amy Holtslander is a Latin and English teacher at Concordia Lutheran High School. She began teaching here in 1985, and has only taught at Concordia. She has taught all four levels of Latin and various English classes. Something that has stayed the same during her years of teaching has been the students willingness to learn and expand their faith. Even though new students come in, she sees that they are all eager to go into the world. She has loved watching her students not only grow intellectually, but as people. She especially sees this in her Latin students as she teaches them from freshman year all the way to senior year. Her advice to people wanting to go into teaching is, “Do it. The profession needs good people who are willing to be committed to developing students in all areas.” She has enjoyed being a teacher and helping students grow not only in their education, but as people with Christ at the center of what they do.
by Isa Lugo, Class of 2025
Concordia Lutheran High School is blessed to have four teachers who have each been in the profession for 40 or more years.
MR. REINKING
Mr. Timothy Reinking began teaching as a fifth-grade teacher in the fall of 1983 at Immanuel Lutheran in Memphis, Tenn. He quit after his first year, saying it paid too little and took too much time. He was pushed back into a teaching position by his father and taught fifth grade at Zion Lutheran in Fort Wayne, Ind. He loved his class and even had seven of the girls from it at his wedding. Some of his Memphis students also called him on Friday nights, just wanting to talk. These two experiences are what kept him teaching. He has taught nearly every subject, including art and once directed a musical. On the high school level, he has taught religion, government, psychology, sociology, and U.S. history, with government and psychology being his favorites. His advice for teachers is to stick out the first and hardest year; teaching is fulfilling and keeps you young. He expressed his love for relationships with students, saying “I love to see them, and when they want to ‘dap and slap’ and all that kind of stuff, you’re like ‘oh my gosh, this is fun.”
MR. MURPHY
Mr. Christopher Murphy began teaching as a fourth-grade teacher in the fall of 1985 at Concordia Peoria in Peoria, Ill. In his career, he has taught nearly every grade from fifth to twelfth and almost every subject as a grade school teacher, mostly teaching algebra, history, and literature. Mr. Murphy started teaching at CLHS in 2017 and currently teaches algebra, theater classes, and Adult Roles and Education Professions, a course designed to help young people consider the vocation of teaching. He loves teaching all of these classes, and especially enjoys musical theater. He directs four shows a year at Concordia during the school year and an alumni show each summer. Throughout his teaching career, he has always felt a passion for working with kids and he says teaching “is just a part of who I am.” He loves being able to form impactful and long-lasting relationships with his students and has had a positive influence on the lives of many. His advice to first-year teachers and to students in his education professions class is to be prepared for what teaching is, to love kids, and to have a solid faith in Christ.
