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Students Excel at State Forensics Competition

BY BEN GROTA (SDHS SENIOR)

Continuing a proud tradition of excellence, the Southern Door high school forensics team recently traveled to Madison to compete in the WISDAA State Forensics Competition. According to its website, Wisconsin Interscholastic Speech and Dramatic Arts Association (WISDAA) seeks “to enhance and refine communication skills, to foster creativity, and to share perspectives.” Forensics

allows students to improve their speaking, creative expression, and communication skills by preparing and performing speeches.

Southern Door fielded the largest team out of any school in the state with over 50 participating students. The trip began on April 11th with students exploring Madison’s iconic State Street and the capitol building.

On April 12th, they returned to the UW-Madison campus to deliver their speeches at the state competition. In total, 35 students earned the Critics Choice gold medal award, while 15 students took home silver and 5 students received a bronze. To earn the Critics Choice gold medal award, students needed to earn a perfect score in every evaluation criteria.

These results placed Southern

Door in the top 5% of teams in the State for the third year in a row, and in the top 10% of teams for the fourth year in a row. Under the leadership of head coach Ms. Teska, the team embraces a gold standard of poise and professionalism —enhancing their public speaking skills and earning recognition at the highest level.

SDHS Announces Valedictorian & Salutatorian

Ben Grota, son of Carl and Jennifer Grota, is valedictorian of the class of 2025 at Southern Door High School. He has demonstrated outstanding academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to both his school and community throughout his high school career.

Ben achieved a perfect ACT score and utilized the Early College Credit Program to earn over 25 college credits through UWGreen Bay and UW-Oshkosh. His coursework included advanced studies such as Calculus III and Advanced Spanish Grammar. His favorite class was AP Calculus.

Beyond academics, Ben excelled in a variety of extracurricular activities, earning numerous awards and distinctions, including the DAR Good Citizen Award, National Merit Scholarship Finalist, and AP Scholar Award. He performed in the WSMA State Honors Band, attended Boys Badger State, and currently serves as a student representative to the School Board. He earned nine varsity letters across football, track, and cross country, holding the school record in the 5k. Ben is also

deeply committed to giving back to his community. He volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters, tutors elementary school students in math, and leads worship at his church.

Ben plans to major in mathematics, with a minor in finance at UW-Madison.

Marissa Shefchik, daughter of Matt and Jennifer Shefchik, is the salutatorian at Southern Door High School. She has been involved in a number of extracurricular activities such as: National Honor Society, Track, Forensics, Math Team, Cross Country, Solo and Ensemble, and the Musical. Throughout her high school career, she has taken a number of AP courses as well as multiple honors courses. Some of her favorite classes she’s

taken consist of Choir, English 11 Honors, and AP Statistics.

In her free time Marissa enjoys traveling, camping, and spending time with her family. Marissa plans on attending UW-Green Bay next fall. She also hopes to travel to a number of different countries such as Japan, Italy, and Norway.

NHS Induction Ceremony at Southern Door High School

Southern Door High School proudly inducted 24 students into the National Honor Society during an evening ceremony held on May 7, 2025. Selection was made by a faculty council, recognizing students who exemplify the highest standards of scholarship, service, leadership, and character.

The newly inducted members are:

Lauden Berg

Grace Wagner

Ryker Lohrey

Sage DeFere

Richard Bongle

Tara Maccaux

Ava Everard

Makayla Bouche

Maiya Olson

Isabel Jeanquart

Caleb Delwiche

Paige Penovich

Addison Kluge

Portia Hah

Audrie Schley

Kailyn Neville

Elise Jackson

Karina Schmiling

Vienna Price

Kaitlyn Kluge

Reese Vogel

Landon Vandertie

Ollie LeRoy

Teagan Williams

The National Honor Society ranks as one of the oldest and most prestigious national organizations for high school students. With chapters in three-fourths of the nation’s high schools, the NHS has recognized millions

of students for their achievements since its founding in 1921. The Southern Door chapter is sponsored by Melissa Schley and Brandon Wautier.

Southern Door Music Students Advance to WSMA State Solo Ensemble Festival

After receiving 1st Star Ratings at the District Festival, Southern Door High School music students attended WSMA State Solo & Ensemble Festival Saturday, May 3, 2025 at UWGB.

Students that performed either a vocal and/or instrumental solo, vocal and/or instrumental ensemble(s) at state are: Jude Alrand, Layna Bosman, Ellie Engerson, Kayleigh Erickson, Logan Euclide, Maddie Finger, Marlen Garcia, Ben Grota, Kaiden Grovogel, McKenna

Guilette, Molly Hall, Sam Ingersoll, Isabel Jeanquart, Lukas Kallin, Chloe Kelley, Kaitlyn Kluge, Nevaeh Krueger, Ollie LeRoy, Keshawn Lezine, Brooke Marchant, Anna Massart, Sara Montana, Breleigh Paplham, Evelyn Parks, Abby Petrina, Grant Pieschek, Valentine Sanchez, Lilly Schmidt, Karina Schmiling, Jack Scoville, Octavia Severinsen, Kadince Shefchik, Marissa Shefchik, Jesse Thorson, Ana Torres, Nikki Trusova, Izaac Vandertie, Britney Wanless, Teagan

Celebrating the SDHS Class of 2025

Southern Door High School proudly celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2025 on Sunday, May 26. A total of 76 graduates, along with three international exchange students, participated in a ceremony filled with pride, reflection, and a strong sense of community.

Leading this exceptional class were Valedictorian Benjamin Grota and Salutatorian Marrissa Shefchik. Benjamin plans to continue his education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, while Marrissa will attend the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay. Both have demonstrated remarkable academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to excellence that set the tone for this accomplished class.

The future is bright for the Class of 2025. Post-graduation plans include 49% of students attending four-year colleges or universities, 22% heading to technical colleges, 3% entering military service, and 26% joining the workforce. This year’s graduating class also earned over $550,000 in scholarships and awards that will support their continued educational pursuits.

Whether continuing their education, serving their country, or entering the workforce, these students exemplify the values and spirit of Southern Door. Their legacy of hard work, resilience, and leadership will leave a lasting impact on our school community. We are incredibly proud of each graduate and confident that they will make a difference in the world.

A Note from the Superintendent

I hope this message finds you well as we reflect on the conclusion of the 2024-25 school year. It was a truly rewarding year, filled with growth, achievement, and countless moments of inspiration. I am incredibly proud of the dedication and hard work shown by our students and staff throughout the year—in classrooms and throughout our school community.

Across all grade levels, students embraced meaningful learning experiences, took on new challenges, and celebrated academic success. Beyond the classroom, our extracurricular programs and athletic teams demonstrated teamwork, resilience, and school spirit. Our teachers and staff remained focused on their commitment to creating a positive and enriching environment where every student could thrive.

The energy and enthusiasm that defined this past school year were nothing short of exceptional. Thank you for your continued support in making our schools places of excellence and opportunity. I look forward to all we will accomplish together in the years ahead.

Dr. Kevin Krutzik Superintendent Contact Information kkrutzik@sdsd.k12.wi.us and 920-825-7311

Williams

Students either received Superior or Excellent ratings at state. There were a total of 29 events with 24 events receiving a Superior rating and 5 events receiving an Excellent rating. In addition, the adjudicator in each site nominated performances that were exemplary. Five Southern Door events were nominated for this exemplary recognitionAnna Massart, Musical Theater Solo; Grant Pieschek, Piano Solo; Jesse Thorson, Piano Solo; Vocal Trio of Ellie Engerson, Molly Hall & Lilly Schmidt; and Senior Women’s Vocal Ensemble. At the end of the day, the adjudicator in each site may award the Exemplary to 2 events - Anna Massart, Musical Theater Solo and the Senior Women’s Vocal Ensemble received the Exemplary Award. Congratulations to our Southern Door State Musicians!

Benjamin Grota – Southern Door Valedictorian

Marissa Shefchik – Southern Door Salutatorian

Southern Door Talon Community Fitness Center Offers Free Memberships for Seniors 62+

Southern Door is excited to announce that beginning July 1, 2025 all community members age 62 or older are eligible for a FREE annual membership. This initiative was originally suggested by the Southern Door County School District Board of Education in March and is now being implemented as we approach the July 1 launch date. This new benefit is part of the district’s ongoing commitment to promoting community wellness and encouraging healthy, active lifestyles for residents of all ages. “We’re thrilled to finally roll out this program and welcome more of our senior residents into the fitness center,” said Kim Starr, School Board President. “The School Board recognized early on how impactful this could be for the community, and now we’re making it a reality.” Located within the Southern Door School District, the Talon Community Fitness Center offers top-tier fitness amenities in a welcoming, community-focused environment. With this new offering, the center invites seniors to take advantage of the benefits of regular exercise, social engagement, and easy access to modern fitness resources.

Membership Includes Access To:

● Full weight room with strength and cardio equipment

● Indoor Turf Facility

● Eagle Gym (when not in use by school teams/ groups)

● Community-centered fitness support

Member Access Hours (via the Verkada Pass app)

● Weekdays: 4:00 AM–7:00 AM & 5:00

PM–10:00 PM

● Weekends: 5:00 AM–10:00 PM

Staffed Weight Room Hours:

● School Days: 5:00 AM–7:00 AM & 3:00

PM–8:00 PM

● Weekends: 7:00 AM–10:00 AM

Get started today! The Talon Community Fitness Center is proud to offer a space where all ages can grow stronger—together. Call the high school office at 920-825-7333 for more information.

Elementary School Holds 7th Annual Family STEAM Night

In March, the elementary held their seventh annual Family STEAM Night. Families engaged with many familiar activities including coding, robotics, sewing, and circuitry challenges. Students showcased two projects they had worked on during the year. Attendees were encouraged to engage with interactive grade level Table Top Golf Courses that were decked out with circuitry that created light, sound, and movement. Additionally, families were able to view the classroom Helpful Inventions Showcase, which were also created using circuits and

recyclables. Several new community partners joined the festivities this year, offering students opportunities to engage in challenges focused on Land, Air, and Water. Joining TTX and Bay Engineering Inc. were The Door County Astronomical Society and The Green Bay Model Airplane Club. Check out the night’s events by visiting our photo album at

Teaching Grammar the Fun Way

BY MR. BRETT HANSON

In Mr. Hanson’s English 9 class, high school students are taking grammar to a whole new level by becoming creators and teachers. As part of a special digital storytelling project, these 9th graders are using DALL-E, an AI art generator, to design engaging images for stories aimed at 1st and 4th graders. Each story focuses on essential grammar concepts—like parts of speech, punctuation, and sentence structure—brought to life with the help of Mr. Hanson’s original Grammarology songs and videos. These resources serve as both inspiration and educational content, making grammar accessible and enjoyable for young learners. The goal is not just to teach grammar, but to show that grammar can be creative and fun. By combining their understanding of sentence building with art and storytelling, the 9th graders are transforming what is often seen as a dull subject into something imaginative and memorable. They write scripts, perform grammar-themed skits, and pair the performances with colorful illustrations that help younger students visualize how language works. From dancing adjectives to talking commas, the stories are designed to entertain while planting solid grammar skills in the minds of early learners.

For the high school students, this proj-

https://tinyurl.com/STEAMnight2025 (pictures and videos!).

Creativity on Display: Southern Door’s Annual Art Show “Wild About Art”

BY MS. ALYSSA WALTON

Southern Door hosted its annual Art Show on May 1, and it was nothing short of a vibrant celebration of our student creativity, talent, and hard work. Families, faculty, and community members came together to admire a stunning array of artwork created by students from every grade level.

Under the guidance of our dedicated art teachers, Alyssa Walton (Elementary) and Jared Nellis (Middle School) featuring some High School art thanks to Billie Moore (High School). Students spent months preparing for the show. The result was an inspiring collection of paintings, drawings, sculptures, and mixed media inspired by their theme

“Wild About Art”. Each piece reflected not only the technical skills the students have developed but also their ability to express emotion, imagination, and thought through art.

This year the art department focused on

Over 50 Middle School students entertained audiences with their wildly exciting production of Dreamwork’s Madagascar - A Musical Adventure Jr. in early March. Madagascar Jr. marks the third Middle School Musical production at Southern Door. This upbeat show had audience members tapping their toes and laughing along the way as New York’s Central Park Zoo stars found themselves discovering the true meaning of friendship. Fourteen 8th grade students wrapped up their middle school career with this show. Directors Amanda Kadulski and Sara Mueller are sad to see them go, but are also very excited to see what big things they accomplish next.

fundraising to increase clay supply, to purchase tools for adaptive art students, upgrade classroom equipment and fund special projects that allow our young artists to dream big and create boldly. And we are proud to announce that we raised a little over $1,000!

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the art faculty, student volunteers, and parent helpers who made this event possible. The success of this year’s show is a testament to the importance of arts education in fostering creativity, confidence, and community. We look forward to seeing what our talented students create next year

Three performances and one dress rehearsal seemed to fly by as months of preparation took place to bring the show to life. This program featured students from grades 6-8 in a number of facets - set painting, scene changes, spotlights, and ushers - in addition to all of the actors on stage. Collaboration with Choreographer Files, Set-Designer Bryan Geisel, and Lighting Designer SDHS Senior Will Verhagen elevated the production and captivated the audiences. The cast and crew truly put it all out on stage and made everyone proud with their crisp moves, big smiles, and sweet harmonies. As one show wraps up, chatter about next year’s production has already begun! Stay tuned for a big announcement at the end of May for what next year has in store!

ect is also a powerful way to solidify their own understanding. Teaching others forces them to think deeply about how language works and how to explain it clearly. Performing the Grammarology songs and creating visuals helps them remember grammar rules more effectively—and in a way that feels meaningful. As they write for a younger audience, they also learn the power of simplicity, clarity, and creativity.

Ultimately, these digital stories are more than just lessons—they’re seeds of future knowledge. Mr. Hanson’s students are helping grow the next generation of readers and writers while strengthening their own roots in grammar and storytelling. They will perform their digital stories in the third week of May. Special thanks to Ms. Eversol, Ms. LeCaptain, Ms. VanMatre, Ms. Renard, Ms. Spude, and Ms. Rolin for volunteering their valuable class time.

Southern Door Middle Schoolers Explore Agricultural Careers at KCEDC’s Ag Career Days

BY MRS. JODY NELSON

On Wednesday, April 30th, the KCEDC sponsored Agricultural Career Days held at Ebert Enterprises in Algoma. All Southern Door 7th and 8th grade students attended along with several others schools. Students learned about the numerous career opportunities available in agriculture today such as; local farm operations, milk testing, agronomy, veterinary services, cheese production, technology, marketing, business, and many more. We had a beautiful day filled with tons of exciting information and experiences...Students started the day with a “Passport to Ag Careers” that they filled out as they traveled from one career station to another throughout the day. In this passport, students documented facts about each career station such as the education needed, salary earned, the skills needed, what the career does and what career clusters and school subjects the career fits in. The morning began with a demonstration of a drone spraying a field! Students were also able to work with a veterinarian and listen to a calf’s heartbeat, they learned how healthy food mixes are made and why cows don’t always have the same diet-just like humans! Students learned hands-on skills like electrical circuits, planting seedlings, mixing foods, operating calf milk feeders, the financial planning for agricultural businesses and so much more! Overall, the kids had a great day with a lot of information and fun activities!

Learning Through the Last Day: Tech Ed Students Stay Engaged with Hands-On Project

As the school year comes to a close, Technical Education instructors Walker DeJager and Travis Revolinski are ensuring that students remain focused and engaged through meaningful, real-world learning. This week, students are working to construct 10 picnic tables – all of which have already been presold. The hands-on project reinforces both craftsmanship and commitment, helping students stay productive even as summer break approaches. DeJager and Revolinski, both in their early years at Southern Door, are continuing to build upon a strong technical education tradition where over 66% of students participate in at least one tech ed course during their high school experience. The instructors shared that staying engaged in purposeful work is especially important at the end of the school year, and they’re already anticipating a similar project for

Summer Financial Update: Budget, Savings & Community Impact

Community Roundtable Recap

Thank you to everyone who attended the Community Roundtable on April 29. The event was a tremendous success, bringing together district leaders, educators, parents, students, and community members for a meaningful conversation about Southern Door’s financial health and future planning.

We are grateful for the thoughtful questions, ideas, and feedback shared throughout the evening. If you were unable to attend—or would like to revisit the materials discussed—the presentation slideshow, participant packet, and a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document with answers are all available on our district website. Access the Community Roundtable Materials: www.southerndoor.k12.wi.us/community_ roundtable_event

Planning for the Future

At the Southern Door County School District, we believe that strong schools are built through strong partnerships with the community. As we look toward the future, we remain committed to transparency, responsible financial planning, and keeping you—our residents—well informed every step of the way.

Over the past several months, district leaders have attended all nine town board meetings, met with local organizations, and connected with in-

dividuals and small groups to answer questions and listen to feedback. These conversations have been invaluable in helping shape the decisions we make for our students, staff, and facilities. In this newsletter, we’re sharing information that was specifically requested during the community meetings attended by district staff. The following figures and updates reflect the questions and interests raised by our community and help illustrate where we are as a district and where we are headed:

• Cost Analysis of the 2022 Capital Referendum – (See Figure 1)

• District Debt Obligations: An Overview of Current Debt – (See Figure 2)

• Transportation Services Comparison: Privatized vs. District-Owned Buses – (See Figure 3)

• District Financial Information - Comparison to Area Schools – (See Figure 4)

• District Employee Information - Updated/Projected Staffing Levels – (See Figure 5)

We know that maintaining a high-quality education system requires careful planning, community trust, and shared responsibility. Your continued interest and involvement make a difference in helping us meet the needs of our students today—and build a strong foundation for tomorrow.

Thank you for supporting Southern Door Schools and for being an essential part of our journey forward.

Budget: $510,444 Design Budget Estimate: $510,444 Actual Construction Cost: $261,392

Renovations Pre-Referendum Budget: $391,115 Design Budget Estimate: $753,115

Actual Construction Cost: $0 (removed from project scope) District

Pre-Referendum Budget: $1,098,254 Design Budget Estimate: $1,098,254 Actual Construction Cost: $1,422,203 ES/MS Art Room Renovations

Pre-Referendum Budget: $469,791

Design Budget Estimate: $572,779

Actual Construction Cost: $569,240

General Contractor Fees Pre-Referendum Budget: $3,361,804

Architectural/Design Fees

Septic System

Facility Fire Protection Power

Pre-Construction Soil Boring

ES/MS Asbestos Abatement

Referendum (November 2022)

$14,900,000 (Building Improvements)

Capital Referendum (November 2018)

$12,105,000 Interest: $3,038,100 2035

$6,270,000 (Building Improvements) Principal: $1,090,000 Interest: $121,900 2030

Total Capital Referendum Debt

Non-Referendum Debt (March 2022)

$800,000 (Energy Efficiency)

Non-Referendum Debt (December 2017)

Principal: $13,195,000 Interest: $3,160,000

$540,000 Interest: $25,190 2028

$4,300,000 (Energy Efficiency) Principal: $2,970,000 Interest: $463,500 2033

Non-Referendum Debt (June 2013)

$1,125,000 (Technology)

Total Non-Referendum Debt

Total Overall Debt

$16,850,000 Interest: $3,653,185

The chart provides our community with a clear overview of Southern Door’s current debt obligations (issued via general obligation government bonds). It outlines the types of debt the district has taken on—both through voter-approved referendums and non-referendum borrowing—along with the remaining principal and interest owed, and the expected payoff dates.

to invest in the future of our students and schools.

This table summarizes a cost comparison between maintaining district-owned transportation services and contracting with private bus companies. The Southern Door School District reached out to six private transportation providers; however, only three companies responded with cost estimates. The figures below reflect the daily route costs for each of those responding companies, with additional notes on included and excluded services.

Note: Actual bus company names have been replaced with generic identifiers (e.g., Bus Company A, B, C) to maintain confidentiality and avoid the appearance of bias or endorsement.

Design Budget Estimate: $3,361,804

Actual Construction Cost: $1,336,845

Pre-Referendum Budget: $250,343

Design Budget Estimate: $250,343

Actual Construction Cost: $881,195

Pre-Referendum Budget: $0

Design Budget Estimate: $1,256,319

Actual Construction Cost: $1,256,319

Pre-Referendum Budget: $0

Design Budget Estimate: $50,096

Actual Construction Cost: $50,096

Pre-Referendum Budget: $0

Design Budget Estimate: $11,588

Actual Construction Cost: $11,588

Pre-Referendum Budget: $0

Design Budget Estimate: $40,660

Actual Construction Cost: $40,660

Track & Field Event Relocation Pre-Referendum Budget: $0

Design Budget Estimate: $144,877

Actual Construction Cost: $144,877

$14,928,000

Referendum Funding:

Total Project Costs:

$16,105,777

Interest Earned on Bond Proceeds: ($588,137) **Estimate

Actual Project Cost: $15,517,640

Project Overage: $589,640 (paid via Operating Budget/Fund Balance)

2022 Capital Referendum Recap: Final Cost Overview

The chart provides a breakdown of key projects included in the 2022 Capital Referendum, comparing the original pre-referendum budget estimates, updated design budget estimates, and actual construction costs. It highlights changes to project scopes, including areas removed or revised, and reflects the district’s efforts to manage resources responsibly while meeting facility and program needs. The chart highlights key financial comparisons between Southern Door and eight neighboring districts, including enrollment, operational referendums, spending per student, and teacher and paraprofessional/ associate salaries. It provides transparency on district funding and helps inform stakeholders about the financial landscape affecting our

While we are proud of the improvements made to our facilities—enhancing the learning environment for students and addressing critical infrastructure needs—several unforeseen circumstances and market realities led to final costs coming in above the original estimates. These included:

1. Inflationary Pressures Construction materials and labor costs rose significantly after the referendum was approved, impacting project budgets across all areas.

2. Septic System Replacement During the planning and early construction phases, it became clear that the existing septic system needed to be fully replaced due to age and current facility demands.

3. Higher-than-Expected Bedrock Crews encountered more bedrock than anticipated, requiring additional excavation and increasing overall site preparation costs.

4. Asbestos Abatement The Elementary/Middle School Art Room renovations included necessary asbestos removal, which added to the cost of that portion of the project.

5. Project Management Structure The district opted to manage the project collaboratively with the General Contractor rather than hiring a dedicated Project Manager, a decision that also affected how some aspects of the project were coordinated.

6. Strategic Cost Reductions

To remain as close to budget as possible, administration adjusted the scope of work—such as eliminating the Bus Garage—in order to have a minimal impact on student learning.

7. Limited Local Contractor Availability

A shortage of available electrical contractors in the region resulted in fewer bids and higher costs for some project components. Despite these challenges, the referendum projects have successfully

of 21 Full-time Equivalent (FTE) staff members during this period. It provides transparency on staffing trends and helps stakeholders understand the district’s efforts to balance resources while continuing to support students.

NOTE: As we prepare for the 2025–26 school year, current projections include a

Figure 2: District Debt Obligations: An Overview of Current Debt

Figure 3: Transportation Services Comparison: Privatized vs. District-Owned Buses

Figure 4: District Financial Information - Comparison to Area Schools

Figure 5: District Employee Information - Updated/Projected Staffing Levels

Figure 1: Cost Analysis of the 2022 Capital Referendum

Winter Sports Recap/Spring Sports Preview

BY BEN GROTA (SDHS SENIOR)

Continuing success from the fall, Southern Door student-athletes achieved impressive team and individual accomplishments throughout the winter sports season. Under the direction of a new coach, Alyssa Conway, the girls basketball team finished 7th in the conference, falling to Brillion in the playoffs. At the final home game of the season, Senior Ashlyn Delfosse surpassed the milestone of 1,000 career scoring points. The boys basketball team continued their past success, placing first in the Packerland Conference with an undefeated conference record of 12–0. The Eagles won their second consecutive regional title, falling to eventual state qualifier Bonduel in the sectional semifinal. Senior Drew Daoust achieved an impressive record of his own, breaking the 3,000-point mark and surpassing basketball legend Mickey Crowe on the state all-time scoring list to move into second place. The bowling club finished second in conference standings and Senior Bella Roen qualified for state for the fourth consecutive year. The wrestling team had many younger athletes this year. Four girls—Nora LeFevre, Portia Hah, Sydney Turner, and Attyson Wilson— qualified for the sectional meet. On the boys’

team, Lance Veeser, Clark LeFevre, and Ethan Alexander advanced.

The following student-athletes were recognized for outstanding performance:

Boys Basketball Player of the Year: Drew Daoust (12)

Bowling All-Conference Award: Bella Roen (12)

Boys Basketball All-State: Drew Daoust (12)

1st Team All-Conference: Drew Daoust (12), Lance Veeser (10)

2nd Team All-Conference: Ashlyn Delfosse (12), Lauden Berg (11), Caden Pierre (12)

Honorable Mention: Tyler Nienas (12)

conference title for the second consecutive year. The baseball team started the season off strong, winning four straight games, currently holding a record of 7-9. The softball team holds a record of 7-3 and ranks third in the conference. Finally,

Academic All-State: Braylon Berg (12), Kennedy Pierre (9), Caden Pierre (12), Alyssa Bouche (9), Chelsie Claflin (10), Kyleigh Claflin (10), Lillian Delwiche (11), Elise Jackson (10), Chelsie Jacquet (9), Alanah Kaye (11), Paige Penovich (10), Alexis Tassoul (12), Reese Vogel (10), Nora LeFevre (11), Attyson Wilson (11), Portia Hah (10), Violet Jackson (9)

Welcome and Congratulations to Our Newly Elected School Board Members!

Please join us in congratulating our newly elected school board members, Hannah Delwiche and Tina Nellis, who were elected on April 1. We look forward to their leadership, insight, and commitment to serving the students, staff, and families of our district. Welcome aboard!

Just as quickly as the winter sports season ended, spring sports began. On May 19th, the track team competed at the conference championship meet with the boys team placing second and the girls team capturing the

Southern Door’s Deb Diemert Presents at National Math Conference

The Southern Door County School District is proud to announce that Mrs. Deb Diemert, Math Recovery Specialist, presented at the U.S. Math Recovery Council’s National Conference held in Washington, D.C., from May 6–8, 2025. This prestigious bi-annual event draws educators, specialists, and researchers from across the country who are committed to advancing mathematical understanding in K–12 education.

Mrs. Diemert, who serves Southern Door as an elementary math interventionist and instructional coach, has been a passionate advocate for Math Recovery practices for the past six years. Her dedication to the district’s students, staff,

and families has been instrumental in strengthening the district’s approach to mathematics instruction. In her presentation, Mrs. Diemert shared how Southern Door has successfully integrated Math Recovery principles into everyday classroom practice. She highlighted the district’s innovative systems of support, which include co-teaching in classrooms, facilitating common planning among grade-level teams, coaching both teachers and educational associates, and engaging families through hands-on Family Math Nights. Mrs. Diemert’s presentation was well-received and brought national recognition to the South-

ern Door County School District, showcasing the district’s commitment to academic excellence and innovative instructional practices. Her work continues to inspire new ways to build student confidence and achievement in math, ensuring all learners have access to high-quality, supportive education.

SDHS Students & Staff Recognized in Center Stage High School Musical Theater Program

Throughout the 2024-25 school year, Southern Door High School music students were among more than 2,100 participants from a record-breaking 34 local high schools in Northeast Wisconsin who took part in the Center Stage High School Musical Theater Program.

The Center Stage Program is an educational initiative designed to celebrate and support the achievements of high school musical theater. The program fosters confidence, creativity, and community among students, offering enriching educational opportunities for both students and educators throughout the season.

A team of trained adjudicators attended the participating schools’ musical productions, offering valuable educational feedback. Production scores and submitted applications were then evaluated to determine the program’s recognition recipients.

The season culminated in a red-carpet showcase at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center on May 17

Contributors: Steve Bousley, Dave Desmond, Deb Diemert, Ben Grota, Brett Hanson, Sue Ann Hubbard, Amanda Kadulski, Kevin Krutzik, Stacy Motquin, Sara Mueller, Jody Nelson, Sara Paye, Melissa Schley, Marc Vandenhouten, Dan Viste, Alyssa Walton, Brandon Wautier, Bonnie Weydt

Preparing for the Future: Southern Door Students Thrive in Youth Apprenticeship Program

BY MRS. SARA PAYE

Southern Door is a proud supporter of the Northeast Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship (NEWYA) program — a work-based learning initiative overseen by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. This program offers high school juniors and seniors valuable opportunities to build employability skills, connect with local businesses, and explore a variety of career paths within our community. At Southern Door, we are committed to providing every student with multiple pathways to explore future careers. The Youth Apprenticeship Program is introduced as early as freshman year to help students plan, so they can make informed decisions about their future experiences. Those who choose to participate develop a resume, complete job applications, practice mock interviews, and undergo formal interviews to secure positions. Students can explore careers across all industry clusters, and many Door County businesses are eager to partner with them. These partnerships are a key strength of the program — fostering strong, lasting connections between local

employers and the next generation of workers. Businesses gain access to motivated young talent, while students receive real-world experiences that allow students to have ownership of their education and future goals.

During the 2024–25 school year, 56 Southern Door students participated in the Youth Apprenticeship program, collectively earning over $382,000 in wages. While around 40% of participants worked in construction or manufacturing, others gained experience in fields such as business management and marketing, education, health sciences, hospitality, transportation, agriculture, and information technology.

The Youth Apprenticeship program has become a cornerstone of the educational experience at Southern Door High School. It reflects our belief that education is not a one-size-fits-all journey. We’re dedicated to crafting meaningful, individualized learning experiences that align with each student’s unique skills, strengths, and aspirations — while also building strong bridges between school and the world of work.

Celebrating our 2025 Retirees

Southern Door Community Auditorium

As the Programming Director for the Southern Door Community Auditorium, I have the privilege of witnessing firsthand how this space transforms into something far greater than a stage with lights and sound. Whether it is the soaring notes of a live concert or the hushed stillness after a powerful dramatic moment, our auditorium becomes the heartbeat of our rural community, serving as the only performing arts venue in the southernmost part of Door County. This past season, we focused on

As we announce our 2025–26 season, we are aiming even higher. Our upcoming season will feature a thrilling line-up of local talent, regional favorites, and nationally recognized touring acts. But we cannot do it alone. Our ability to offer these experiences depends on the generous support of community-minded businesses, organizations, and individuals like you. That is why we are inviting you to become a donor/ sponsor. Whether your gift is large or small, your support shows a commitment to keeping the arts alive and thriving in our area. We offer a variety of sponsorship levels with exclusive benefits to recognize your support. If you have questions or ideas about how we might partner in other ways, I would be delighted to talk with you. Please contact me by email,

other states! The arts bring people together and we are proud that our stage is where those connections happen.

Delwiche

Nellis

Dee Chaudoir (Bus Driver - 19 years at SDSD)

Becky LeBrun (4K Teacher - 26 years at SDSD)

Barb Mueller (Library Media Associate - 47 years at SDSD)

Mary Rass (ES SPED Teacher - 31 years at SDSD)

Mary Spude (Grade 4 Teacher35 years at SDSD)

Bonnie Weydt (HS Vocal Music Teacher - 12 years at SDSD)