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Spartan
NEWS
SOMERSET SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS FROM YOUR SCHOOLS SPRING, 2019
Engage, Educate & Empower
Congratulations to the Class of 2022 CLASS MOTTO
“Only you can control your future.” - Dr. Seuss
CLASS COLORS Red & Blue CLASS FLOWER Sunflower CLASS SONG
“22” by Taylor Swift
JUNE 2022
What’s Inside
Class of 2022 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8 Honors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 High School News . . . . . . . . . 10-13 Summer School News . . . . . . . 13 Athletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15 Middle School News . . . . . . . . 16 Elementary School News . . . . 17 District News . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19 Retirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-21 Staying Connected . . . . . . . . . . 22 From the District Administrator . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Landon Kenneth Anez
Noah Charles Bailey
Hope Elizabeth Baillargeon
Aiden Zachary Ballard
William Connor Barclay
Grace Avery Barritt
Anna Caroline Bartig
Rihanna Mari Barttelt
Breckin Allen Beauvais
Zachary Michael Bell
Tyler Joseph Boucher
Evellayna Ann Briggs
Joseph Warren Bubash
Jack Ryan Casey
Hunter William Chapman
Makya Lynne Connor
Sydney Rose Cook
Emma Maxine Crotty
Son of Joel & April Anez Work
Daughter of William & Melissa Barritt Undecided
Son of Scott & Brenda Boucher Work
Son of Charles & Amy Bailey Minnesota State University Mankato for Business
Daughter of Jeff & Sara Bartig UW - La Crosse
Daughter of Katie Persells U of MN for Art
Daughter of Daniel & Jennifer Baillargeon Minnesota State University Mankato for Dental Hygiene
Daughter of Jason & Aida Barttelt Military Service with the U. S. Air Force (National Guard)
Son of Tim & Annemarie Bubash UW - Stout for Mechanical Engineering
Son of Brandon & Kristina Ballard U of MN - Twin Cities for Acting
Son of Scott & Michelle Beauvais Technical College for Welding
Son of Sharon & Mark Casey UW - La Crosse
Son of Christopher & Paula Barclay Northwood Technical College for IT - Systems Administration
Son of Chad Bell and Kim & Jeff Reichert Northwood Technical College for CDL & Work for an Excavating Company
Son of Duane & Tamara Chapman UW - Stout for Game Design & Development - Art
SOMERSET HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2022 Granddaughter of Sabrina Connor Work at SMC & attend Northwood Community College for Medical Assistant
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Daughter of Jacob Cook & Carin Cook Work
Daughter of Jason & Janine Crotty Iowa State University for Equine Science
Samantha Mae DeGeest
Emily Ruth Driscoll
Rogan Matthew Duff
Charlotte Cecilia Eichten
Anna Mae Erickson
Isabella Gray Fagan
Leonardo Christian Fay
Olivia Pearle Felker
Emmaly Rose Marie Fitch
Gabriel Lee Fortner
Jaden Jean Freeberg
Jaden Alexandria Freese
Olivia Elaine Garley
Parker Mitchell Gebheim
Jordan Gabriel German
Antonio Miguel Gomez
Mackenzie Joy Gow
Dominic Shane Hanson
Tiffany Marie Hantsbarger
Brock William Harris
Daughter of Jeff & Teresa DeGeest College for Accounting
Daughter of Thomas & Danielle Fagan U of MN for Political Science
Son of Eric Freeberg and Missy Bader Work
Son of Micheal & Norma Gomez Northwood Technical College for Welding
Daughter of Jane Driscoll U-W Madison
Son of Garry Fay & Apolonia Fay Trinidad Bethel University for Mathematics
Daughter of Bobbi Jo Tronson and Troy Freese Northwood Technical College for Business Management
Daughter of Tony & Jennifer Gow Diesel Mechanic
Son of Matthew Duff & Tamara Hillman-Duff and Kelly Duff-Bowers & David Bowers Undecided
Daughter of Heidi Christianson Work
Daughter of Amber Garley and Andrew Garley Work
Son of Tina Ayers & the Late John Hanson Undecided
Daughter of Zac & Sara Eichten Winona State University for Athletic Training
Daughter of Sharline Fitch & Daniel Rauch Northwood Technical College
Son of Mitchell & Jane Gebheim and Nicole & Bryant Miner U of MN - Duluth for Finance
Daughter of Jamie Hantsbarger and Heath Hantsbarger Montana State University for Nursing
Daughter of Major & Tammy Erickson Northwood Technical College for Early Childhood
Son of Shannon & Joshua Bottolfson and Jason Smith Undecided
Son of Gabe & Paula German Northwood Technical College for IT - Cybersecurity Specialist
Son of Richard Harris and Collette Amor de Caballero & Jesus Caballero Concordia University, St. Paul for Environmental Science
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Kennedy Elizabeth Harty
Kennedie Rae Haukom
Conor North Hensley
Grant Christopher Hoff
Rory Ryan Hoff
Madison Alexsis Hollister
Charles Weston Hommen II
Erin Taylor Huerta
MacKenzie Megan Huot-Thompson
Elias Marshall Jeska
Drew Haley Kreibich
Charlie Stephen Kronforst
Daughter of Kelly & Steve Perro UW - River Falls for Social Work
Daughter of Amber Morfitt Worsham College of Mortuary Science for Funeral Director
Cole William Kelley
Son of Shawn & Heidi Kelley Undecided
Daughter of Leah Haukom and Jason Haukom Undecided
Son of Charles Hommen, Sr. & Mary Hommen Undecided
Dillon Leo Kenaga
Son of Michelle Dickhausen and Brian Kenaga College
Son of Butch & Shari Hensley UW - River Falls for History Education
Daughter of Bob & Wendy Huerta St. Norbert College
Ashley Mae Knefelkamp Daughter of Andrew & Jennifer Knefelkamp UW - River Falls for Elementary Education
Son of Chris & Stephanie Hoff University of North Dakota for Commercial Aviation
Daughter of Dave Thompson and Amy Huot UW - River Falls for Art
Daughter of Cory & Sara Kreibich University of St. Thomas for PreMedicine
Son of Dean & Erin Hoff U of MN - Duluth
Son of Daniel & Kate Jeska UW - Stout for Environmental Science
Son of Stephen Kronforst and Melissa Sirek UW - River Falls for Computer Science
SOMERSET HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2022 Alexander John Lange
Son of John & Nichole Lange Northwood Technical College for Welding
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Megan Kristine Larse
Daughter of Cory & Erin Larse Winona State University for Art Education
MyKenzie Lee Leccia Daughter of Jeremy & Michelle Leccia UW - Superior for Exercise Science
Audrey Louise Leonard Daughter of Shawn & Nicole Leonard UW - La Crosse for Medical Diagnostic Sonography
Sean Michael Luloff Son of Lucas & Shannon Luloff Undecided
Joseph Daniel LeRoux Son of David & Christine LeRoux Technical College
Haily Rose Martin
Daughter of Donald Martin & Roxanne Birrenbach U of MN - Twin Cities for Psychology
Tallee Imogene Schuemann Lewis
Mia Marie Mae Liedl
Madeline Grace Linka
Cole Stephen McConaughey
Reese Jonathan Mechavich
Yanelisvett Medina Ortiz
Son of Jesse McConaughey and Megan McConaughey Northwood Technical College for Welding
Son of Kelly & Keith Smith and Jon & Emily Mechavich Universal Technical Institute (Marine Mechanics Institute) for Marine Technician
Isaac Christopher Nelson
Daughter of Victoria Schuemann UW - River Falls for Psychology
Daughter of John & Debbie Liedl UW - Eau Claire for Pre-Physician Assistant
Nicholas Phillip Meyer
Emma Lee Miller
Madison Lynne Miller
Savion Larell Mull
Jacob Russel Nerby
Eleanor Maxine Odell
Rowan Elizabeth O’hAodha
Briley Rae Olson
Son of Jason & Jodie Meyer Lake Superior College for Electronic Engineering Technology
Son of Nick & Jill Nerby Undecided
Daughter of Aaron & Stacy Miller U of Northwestern - St. Paul for Physical Education
Daughter of Tammy Odell and Todd Odell Montana State University for Earth Science (Geology)
Daughter of Jeremy & Amy Miller UW - River Falls for Psychology
Daughter of Levon & Tara O’hAodha Hamline University for Biochemistry & Biomedical Engineering
Son of Laura Lind & Ryan Lefler Rochester Community & Technical College for Liberal Arts
Daughter of Mark Olson and Alissa Nowak Winona State University for Nursing
Daughter of Tony & Becky Linka Northland College for Outdoor Education
Daughter of Tanya Ortiz Figueroa Work
Son of Chris Nelson and Jackie Bobick Century College & U of MN Duluth for Business
Class of 2022 55
Bianca Camille Ortega
Logan Frederick Parnell
Maggie Jean Pelletier
Samuel Wallace Priebe
Emilee Lucille Richard
Frederick John Richert
Roxanne Marie Ring
Aaron James Ristow
Zianna Grace Rivard
Patricia Rodriguez Alonso
Kaylee-Anne Christian Rogers
Liam Kent Rohow
Corey James Rose
Jakob Armand Ross
Makayla Marie Sampair
Leslie Sherlyn Sanchez
Samantha Abigail Santos
Kaitlin Marie Scheder
Daughter of Carlos Ortega & Sixta Barboza Undecided
Son of Fred & Melanie Richert Undecided
Daughter of Jennifer & Michael Ragsdale and Cole & Sara Rogers Chippewa Valley Technical College for Liberal Arts
Son of Todd & Sheila Parnell Northwood Technical College for Diesel Equipment Technician
Daughter of Patrick & Susan Ring St. Olaf College for Computer Science & Psychology
Son of Jason & April Rohow Work
Daughter of Jason & Aimee Pelletier Winona State University for Elementary Education
Son of Lisa Brainard Work
Son of Mark & Vicky Rose UW - La Crosse for Computer Engineering
Son of Daniel Priebe & Mary Rice Undecided
Daughter of PJay & Brenda Rivard Undecided
Son of Jason Ross and Melanie Lalonde Military Service with the U. S. Marine Corps
Daughter of Douglas & Heidi Richard and Cortney Richard & Al Williams UW - Stout
Daughter of Lidón Alonso & Beni Rodriguez (Host Parents Ryan & Katie Tjader) ESIC School of Business & Technology Valencia for International Business
Daughter of Tracey & Luke Nordahl and the Late Edward Sampair Penn Foster College for Veterinary Technician
Class of 2022 SOMERSET HIGH SCHOOL
Daughter of Ivan Sanchez & Yadira Blas Northwood Technical College for Law Enforcement
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Daughter of Toni Santos & Rebeca Neri Undecided
Daughter of Greg Scheder UW - Stevens Point for English Education
Conner Joseph Schilling
Juliana Therese Schimmel
Samuel Joseph Schmitt
William Joseph Schottler
Malena Jean Siskow
Serenity Camille Slayton
Paige Elizabeth Soderstrom
Cole Kenneth Spillman
Torsten Albert Strom
Conner Alan Taylor
Levi E. Tetrault
Tori Lynn Thorson
Bryce Edwin Toenjes
Kayla Ann Tollakson
Madison Marchell Trautmiller
Son of Carl & Cheryl Schilling Undecided
Daughter of William Slayton and Crystal Stoddard Undecided
Son of Lisa Stambaugh Chippewa Valley Technical College for Paralegal
Pebbles Brooke Vanasse Daughter of Suzette & Chris Aamodt Dakota County Technical College for Nature Photography & Graphic Design
Daughter of Brant & Laura Schimmel Bethel College for Social Work
Daughter of Steven & Elizabeth Soderstrom U of MN - Twin Cities for Kinesiology
Daughter of Keaton Kilkenny & Robert McCallie and the Late Travis Thorson Winona State University for Psychology
Samantha Jean Vanasse
Daughter of Suzette & Chris Aamodt Northwood Technical College for Veterinary Technician
Son of Dan & Marlene Schmitt U of MN - Duluth for Electrical Engineering
Son of Chad Spillman and Kathy Spillman Undecided
Son of Stacy & Jason Hafner and the Late Mike Toenjes Northwood Technical College for Machine Tool Technician
Anna Christine Walker
Daughter of Holly Kane and Daniel Walker Chippewa Valley Technical College & Metropolitan State University for Nursing & Biochemistry
Son of Joe & Judy Schottler Undecided
Son of Edward & Berit Strom Technical College for Electrical Technology
Daughter of Kimberly Tollakson U of MN for Psychology & Pre-Medicine
Daughter of Eric & Kristin Siskow Winona State University
Son of Jeremy & Stephanie Taylor UW - Superior for Legal Studies & Criminal Justice
Daughter of Tim & Abby Trautmiller UW - La Crosse
Spartan
NEWS
Lauren Renee Walters Daughter of Shari Walters & Renee Chapek U of MN - Twin Cities for Criminology & Pre-Law
Julia Rae Warren
Daughter of Shawn & Nikki Warren UW - River Falls for Education
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Ethan Peter Waskul
Rachel May Webb
Allison May Webster
Bryce Mathew Weyand
Landon Thomas Wilson
Matthew William Wolner
Madilyn Ann Young
Halle Faith Zahnow
Son of Peter & Kate Waskul Apprenticeship for Electrician
Son of Jeremy & Theresa Weyand Northwood Technical College for Machine Tool Technician
Daughter of Matt & Heather Young Montana State University for Nursing
Daughter of Michael & Jessica Webb UW - Superior for Bioloy & Pre-Medicine
Son of John & Robin Wilson UW - River Falls for Computer Science
Daughter of Scott & Shari Zahnow U of MN - Twin Cities for Animal Science (Pre-Veterinary Medicine)
Spartan
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NEWS
Daughter of Ryan & Rachel Webster Century College for Radiologic Technology
MaKenzie Lela Weeks Daughter of Justin & Jessica Weeks UW - Eau Claire for Nursing
Son of David & Deborah Wolner Northwood Technical College for Machine Tool Operation (CNC)
Class of 2022 SOMERSET HIGH SCHOOL
HIGH SCHOOL NEWS
Honor Graduates SOMERSET HIGH SCHOOL HONOR GRADUATES Somerset High School will honor its graduates in 2022 with four different awards for academic excellence as follows: SUMMA CUM LAUDE - The highest praise bestowed upon a student, based on their academic success and rigorous courses taken while in high school: Hope Baillargeon, Aiden Ballard, Grace Barritt, Anna Bartig, Rihanna Barttelt, Jack Casey, Samantha DeGeest, Emily Driscoll, Charlotte Eichten, Isabella Fagan, Leonardo Fay, Parker Gebheim, Tiffany Hantsbarger, Kennedy Harty, Grant Hoff, Rory Hoff, Erin Huerta, Ashley Knefelkamp, Drew Kreibich, Megan Larse, MyKenzie Leccia, Audrey Leonard, Mia Liedl, Madeline Linka, Emma Miller, Madison Miller, Eleanor Odell, Rowan O’hAodha, Briley Olson, Maggie Pelletier, Roxanne Ring, Zianna Rivard, Corey Rose, Samantha Santos, Kaitlin Scheder, Juliana Schimmel, Samuel Schmitt, Malena Siskow, Paige Soderstrom, Conner Taylor, Kayla Tollakson, Madison Trautmiller, Lauren Walters, Julia Warren, Ethan Waskul, Rachel Webb, Madilyn Young, and Halle Zahnow. MAGNA CUM LAUDE - Great praise bestowed upon a student, based on their academic success and rigorous courses taken while in high school: Kennedie Haukom, Frederick Richert, Samantha Vanasse, and Allison Webster. CUM LAUDE - Praise bestowed upon a student, based on their academic success and rigorous courses taken while in high school: Pebbles Vanasse. . HONORS - Distinction bestowed upon a student for achieving a cumulative GPA of 3.4 or higher: Hope Baillargeon, Aiden Ballard, Grace Barritt, Anna Bartig, Rihanna Barttelt, Evellayna Briggs, Jack Casey, Hunter Chapman, Samantha DeGeest, Emily Driscoll, Charlotte Eichten, Isabella Fagan, Leonardo Fay, Parker Gebheim, Jordan German, Antonio Gomez, Tiffany Hantsbarger, Kennedy Harty, Kennedie Haukom, Grant Hoff, Rory Hoff, Erin Huerta, Elias Jeska, Ashley Knefelkamp, Drew Kreibich, Megan Larse, MyKenzie Leccia, Audrey Leonard, Tallee Lewis, Mia Liedl, Madeline Linka, Haily Martin, Emma Miller, Madison Miller, Savion Mull, Eleanor Odell, Rowan O’hAodha, Briley Olson, Maggie Pelletier, Emilee Richard, Frederick Richert, Roxanne Ring, Zianna Rivard, Corey Rose, Leslie Sanchez, Samantha Santos, Kaitlin Scheder, Juliana Schimmel, Samuel Schmitt, Malena Siskow, Paige Soderstrom, Conner Taylor, Kayla Tollakson, Madison Trautmiller, Pebbles Vanasse, Samantha Vanasse, Anna Walker, Lauren Walters, Julia Warren, Ethan Waskul, Rachel Webb, Allison Webster, Makenzie Weeks, Landon Wilson, Madilyn Young, and Halle Zahnow.
2022 AMC Math Exam Scholarship Recipient Marissa German The AMC (American Mathematics Competition) 12 is a 25-question, 75-minute, multiple choice examination in high school mathematics designed to promote the development and enhancement of problem-solving skills. The AMC 12 covers the entire high school math curriculum--including trigonometry, advanced algebra, and advanced geometry, but excluding calculus. Students in grade 12 or below and under 19.5 years of age on the day of the contest can take the AMC 12. The exams were administered around the country on Wednesday, November 10th. The AMC 12 provides an opportunity for high school students to develop positive attitudes towards analytical thinking and mathematics that can assist in future careers. It is the first in a series of competitions that eventually lead all the way to the International Mathematical Olympiad. Each year, Patrick Grengs, a Somerset High School graduate of the Class of 1983, donates $1,000 to the student who scores the highest on the exam. This year’s AMC 12 winner is Marissa German, an 11th grade student at Somerset High School. Marissa is the daughter of Gabe and Paula German. Seven students competed in this competition this year. Congratulations Marissa!
Spartan
NEWS
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HIGH SCHOOL NEWS
High School Music Festivals The High School Music Department was very busy in March and April, performing at several WSMA Festivals in three weeks. State Solo/Ensemble Festival will follow in May at UW - Eau Claire. All the festivals are scored on a rubric where “1” is the best.
SOLO AND ENSEMBLE FESTIVAL On April 5th, Somerset had numerous solos and small ensembles perform at the district festival in Osceola. Thirteen of the Class A entries including the Dynamics Show Choir that earned a score of 1*, which qualified them for state competition. (maximum of 3 points off on the rubric). They will perform again at the state festival on May 7th. The following students participated in the event: Aiden Ballard, Natasha Bambach, Alex Bergeson, Libbie Churchich, Kennedy Harty, Jaiden Kohler, Maggie Pelletier, Max Pelletier, Camden Gallo, Katie Scheder, Madison Miller, Morgan Kjellberg, Ellie Kjellberg, Leo Fay, Joe Thao, Conor Hensley, Aerial Stone, Hannah Mroz, Alyssa Plantenberg, Zianna Rivard, Sam DeGeest, Juliana Schimmel, Malena Siskow, Inara Siskow, Victoria Gomez, Payton Westphal, Julia Salmon, Ava Hoff, Freddie Richert, Adeline Goeltl, Grant Hoff, Rori Kern, and Gus MacDonald. Each judge at the festival gives out one certificate per Site for the best performance in that room. This year 2 groups were awarded this honor–Adeline Goeltl for her Classical Trumpet Solo and Aiden Ballard, Kennedy Harty, Jaiden Kohler, and Maggie Pelletier for their SATB Quartet.
CONCERT FESTIVAL On March 29th Amery High School hosted the Large Group Concert Festival for band and choir. At the concert festival, the high school Concert Band performed class B music and received a rating 2. Concert Choir performed Class A repertoire and received the top rating, 1. There is no state competition for this festival. We have had great things going on in the Somerset Music Department during the 2021-2022 school year and thank all who attended the year’s music events. We look forward to seeing you again in the fall!
Strike! Strike! Strike!
This March, 46 student actors took the stage to bring Somerset High School’s production of Disney’s Newsies to life. The musical is loosely based on the historical events of the Newsboys strike 1899, where the working children selling newspapers in New York City fought against the rich and powerful newspaper owners William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer for fair wage practices. The three performances on March 11-13 were the culmination of over two months of rehearsals where students learned songs, lines, blocking, choreography, and the history behind the story. In addition to the high school actors on stage, three students played in the live pit orchestra, and six more helped with backstage and technical elements of the show.
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(Cont’d on page 11)
HIGH SCHOOL NEWS
Fine ARts Festival What a glorious evening to celebrate the artistic talent of our youth! The Somerset Fine Arts Festival was held on Monday, March 14th at the Somerset High School from 5-8:30 pm. The festival featured the artistic and musical works of students grades K-12 as well as live art demonstrations. The show was the perfect opportunity to celebrate the creative expression and artistic knowledge of the many works of art that were performed and on display that evening. Visual art displays included a wide variety of mediums in both 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional forms. Individual displays by the Advanced Proficiency Art students exhibited artwork that centered around the selected theme that they have been investigating throughout the year. The sculpture class presented their group installation, based on the work of Judy Chicago in which they created a place setting at a table reflecting the ideals of someone that they admire throughout our history. Group displays were created by the middle school students in the form of murals, clay masks, and wire/metal sculptures. Rows and rows of 2-dimensional artwork filled the halls and created and created an inviting atmosphere, which brought added joy and appreciation to our school community. This year the Fine Arts Festival included a very special performance involving the entire music department, grades 5-12 choir and band. The group performed a piece called “To Belong” composed by Anthony Kading. Kading was hired last year to compose this piece and worked directly with all the students to develop a theme that encompassed what it is to be an artist in the Somerset School District. “To Belong” featured nurturing lyrics and melodies that incorporated ideas from all ages and abilities. This commissioned piece was a beautiful way to bring us all together to find common ground and a place to belong.
Additionally, many other students contributed to the set, props, and costumes. This year, the students were able to give a preview performance for the entire middle school, which gave them the opportunity to see some of their classmates who joined the cast. The show brought in several nearly sold out audiences!We had several students participate in District Solo & Ensemble this fall and spring in a total of 13 events. Out of those events, 12 made it to state and will perform in the coming weeks. Here are all the students that participated: Mackenzie Eickhoff, Adeline Goeltl, Elizabeth Churchich, Mason Miller, Katie Tronson, Maxwell Pelletier, Grant Hoff, Jaiden Kohler, Olivia Milles, Madison Miller, Riley MacDonald, Robert Churchich, Gus Linden, Benjamin Garcia, Kate Bartig, Adam Tryba, Curtis Schilling, Maggie Pelletier, Victor Landgren, Kennedy Harty, Laura McVeigh, Katie Scheder, Julianna Schimmel, Ava Young, Leo Fay, Conor Hensley, Payton Westphal, Shyann Erickson, Joe Thao, Malena Siskow, Aiden Ballard and Freddie Richert. The show brought in several nearly sold out audiences!
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HIGH SCHOOL NEWS
Somerset Chapter of National Honor Society Engages in Service Initiatives The 2021-2022 National Honor Society agenda was full of wonderful achievements. NHS members engaged in a series of volunteer activities which enriched not only themselves, but also the Somerset community. This year’s members proudly carried on the mantra of service that National Honor Society is known for. Hope Baillargeon, Aiden Ballard, Anna Bartig, Rihanna Barttelt, Samantha DeGeest, Emily Driscoll, Charlotte Eichten, Isabella Fagan, Parker Gebheim, Tiffany Hantsbarger, Rory Hoff, Erin Huerta, Drew Kreibich, Megan Larse, MyKenzie Leccia, Audrey Leonard, Mia Liedl, Madeline Linka, Emma Miller, Madison Miller, Rowan Ohaodha, Maggie Pelletier, Roxanne Ring, Corey Rose, Kaitlin Scheder, Juliana Schimmel, Paige Soderstrom, Madison Trautmiller, Samantha Vanasse, Pebbles Vanasee, Lauren Walters, Rachel Webb, and Halle Zahnow all contributed to successful blood drives, elementary and middle school volunteering, high school events, mentoring, and community service. The NHS Tutoring Committee consists of assisting students in Somerset High School with their homework, papers, or any assignment they are struggling with. Students are able to access tutoring from NHS members via the designated NHS conference room located in the library. Additionally, NHS members volunteered their time to assist in PLTs (personalized learning time) and ACHIEVE to help students who needed specific support. Some NHS members have also had the opportunity to work one-on-one with students during Spartan Time, the high school’s version of study hall. All members of NHS are required to volunteer at least one hour each week to tutor high school students if they were not already volunteering their time with the district service committee. All of the tutoring that NHS has provided so far this year has helped students become stronger academically. As the name suggests, the Blood Drive Committee is in charge of helping with the blood drives that the Red Cross holds at the high school. We provide those who want to donate blood with information about whether they are eligible and how to take care of themselves before and after they give blood. We are also responsible for signing donors up and making sure they remember their appointment times. All NHS members help the lovely people from the Red Cross set up before and clean up after as well as checking people in and providing them with snacks and drinks after they give blood. This year the NHS Semester Service Committee planned a field trip to Feed My Starving Children to help benefit less fortunate people from around the world. NHS was able to package around forty, if not more, boxes of food in the short two hours that they were there. NHS also spent a day at Second Harvest in April. Second Harvest accepts food donations from grocery stores around the twin cities, so it is a very worthy charity. In addition to running their own events, the Semester Service Committee also lended a helping hand to other committees in NHS. For example, their committee went down to the elementary school every Wednesday to help Mrs. Hoff and any other teachers that needed assistance, helping them teach math, cut copies,
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or anything they needed done. Furthermore, their committee helped with the two blood drives at the high school. Finally, they also helped set up events around the school including the Veteran’s Day Assembly, and the SHS Valentines Day Breakfast, where they gave back to their teachers that have always helped them better their education. As the district service committee, we set up the NHS group with volunteer opportunities at the elementary and middle schools. NHS members were connected with certain teachers who needed extra hands in the classroom. We helped with copies, cutting, or assisting students. NHS members were also able to connect with younger students as an older role model in their classroom. This was a great experience for NHS members to give back to younger kids in their district. Over the course of this year, the Events Committee has planned and participated in many National Honors Society events. During the start of the year, the Events Committee held an Open House for the Somerset community to either wander the school or be given a student-led tour so they could see all the upgrades the school obtained. There were a handful of families who showed up and were able to give tours more closely due to the small numbers. We also had the privilege of planning the Veteran’s Day program to honor those who have served our country. The program was held during the school day; we highly encouraged community members to come and help our school show our respect and gratitude to the American Legion Veterans. The most current event that the Events Committee had planned was the High School Staff Breakfast. National Honors Society members cooked and served breakfast to the staff before school to show our appreciation for all their hard work these past few years given the extreme circumstances. The Events Committee members are very grateful that we had the privilege of being a part of the National Honors Society and had the opportunity to serve our wonderful community. The mentoring committee for NHS at Somerset High School has done a lot this past year. We set up a monthly meeting and presentation for the freshmen advisories, to give them an older perspective, from peers who have gone through the same things. Our group tries our best to create an entertaining presentation, and we make a basic outline for our fellow NHS members to follow. We coordinate with counselor Ms. Colling to put together the topics for each presentation. So far this year we have talked about Emotional Literacy, Moral Identity, Perspective Taking, Self-regulation, and Collaboration. Next month we will finish off our time with the freshmen class by talking about Moral Courage and having an end of the year celebration. Overall, this year’s NHS crew continued the honorable work of this prestigious organization.
SUMMER SCHOOL NEWS Summer School 2022 by Renee Chapek/Lisa Hohler Summer school schedules are ready to go and you should have already received a message that you can access them on your Infinite Campus parent and student portal. If there are fees attached to the class these must be paid on Infinite Campus no later than May 20. We would like to thank you for your patience as we moved through the process of student requests. We made every attempt to provide enough sections so students could get most of the classes they wanted. One thing we will do next year is ask for more alternate choices. As many of you know, scheduling is like putting together a giant jigsaw puzzle. Sometimes the pieces don’t always fit together exactly as you would like but we are proud to say that over seventy percent of students were able to be placed into some if not all of the classes they requested. When we started we had two goals. We wanted to move to a software platform that was familiar to parents and Infinite Campus was the answer! Secondly, we wanted to make the program “student” driven so we tried to offer enough sections for students in popular classes so they could get most of what they wanted. In the past classes “closed” when they were full. Keep in mind that no matter what is used to do the scheduling, not everything is foolproof. We have done our best to create a program that makes most of the people happy most of the time. We will not be making changes and hope that the schedule you receive will work for you. Once fees are paid, unless there are extenuating circumstances, we cannot change schedules or refund fees. Again, thank you for your support. We hope your children enjoy Summer School - 2022!!!
BADGER STATE
HIGH SCHOOL NEWS
Each year, Somerset School District has the opportunity to send two students from Somerset High School to serve as representatives at Badger Boys and Badger Girls State. Badger State is an American Legion sponsored, week-long government and leadership conference for young men and women who are entering their senior year of high school with the purpose of becoming more impactful community members of Wisconsin. Attendees of these programs will learn by doing as they become citizens of the fifty-first state, the state of Badger. Students will have the opportunity to run for offices at the city, county, and state levels of government and work together to make Badger the best state in the nation. Somerset High School is proud to have Owen Parnell and Mia Olson as this year’s representatives at Badger State.
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ATHLETICS & ACTIVITIES
The Somerset High School Athletic Department is proud to announce the selection of MyKenzie Leccia and Parker Gebheim as this year’s WIAA Scholar Athlete nominees. Each school district within the WIAA membership is invited to nominate one boy and one girl for scholar athlete honors. Criteria for selection includes grade point, number of varsity letters earned during the high school career, individual awards, and participation in lead-up play to the State Tournament. Leccia and Gebheim will receive recognition at the local level and will be honored as our Middle Border Conference Scholar Athletes at the eighteenth annual Middle Border Conference Scholar-Athlete banquet held at St. Croix Central High School on April 6th at SCC High School. The program was started by the athletic directors of the Middle Border Conference in order to honor athletes in each school for their academics as well as their athletic success.
MyKenzie Leccia Volleyball, Basketball, Softball MyKenzie Leccia has earned nine varsity letters through the current winter season in volleyball, basketball and softball. Leccia has been a key member of two teams that won WIAA Regional Titles; girls basketball in 20-21 and softball in 2021. Leccia has earned all-conference recognition five times in her high school career; two times in softball, two times in basketball, and once in volleyball. Leccia has been a member of multiple Girls Basketball Teams who earned Academic All-State Honors. After high school, Leccia plans to attend UW-Superior to major in Exercise Science. Leccia plans to play basketball and softball.
Parker Gebheim Soccer, Basketball, Baseball Parker Gebheim has earned eight varsity letters through the current winter season in soccer, basketball, and baseball. Gebheim has earned all-conference recognition four times in his high school career; three times in soccer and once in baseball. Gebheim will be attending the University of Minnesota-Duluth next year and plans to major in Finance/ Accounting.
Athletics Schedules
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Congratulations
ATHLETICS & ACTIVITIES
“Somerset Robotics was represented well at the state competition this year, with two teams qualifying for State! Our young teams traveled to Appelton, WI on March 11th - 12th and participated at the Fox Cities Exhibition Center, where they saw and competed against the best 48 robots in the state. Our teams were as follows: Team 9144A (Ellie Schmitt and Jacob Aubineau) and Team 9144B (Harrison Belisle, Joon Vang, and Max Conway). Members gained experience and will use that knowledge to develop more complex ideas in their robot designs next year. We were fortunate to have one returning team member this year, Senior Matt Wolner, who helped guide our very young teams. In Robotics, members work together as a larger whole to help each other individually do their best and find their strengths. Somerset can be proud of what the Robotics team has accomplished this year.
Spartans!
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MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS
BEDTIME STORIES Middle School Drama students put on the play “Bedtime Stories (As Told by Our Dad) (Who Messed Them Up)”. The play told the stories of The Princess and the Pea, The Boy Who Cried Wolf, and Rumpelstiltskin, but not how you’ve ever heard them before! The play starred Sophia German, Frank Wood, Ruby Ross, Grace Labossiere, Brianna Mondor, Carly Brihn, Lainey Johnson, Ciarah Hegge, Lily Miller, Kiana Moeller Schaumburg, Naomi Nesheim, Marlene Peer, Chloe Rivard, Gabriella Schiavone, Joy Totka, and Ava Plourde.
CHILLY CHARITABLE WEEK During February SMS students took part in Chilly Charitable Week. This was an opportunity for the students at Somerset Middle School to give back to our local community in a variety of ways, all while participating in the different, fun activities of the winter season. Some of the charity work the students generously supported were: Somerset Food Pantry donations, monetary donations to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Gregory’s Gift of Hope, a local HS student, Halos of St. Croix County, and Special Olympics. The annual blanket project ended the week with 150 blankets created by students being donated to Grace Place, Lakeview Hospital, Westfield Hospital, and Turning Point Women’s Shelter.
Top 20 Retreats On February 24 and 25, Somerset Middle School students welcomed Paul Bernabei and Kevin Brennan from Top 20 Training to experience a half-day grade level retreat. Each part of the retreat built on the work we have done in our advisory classes throughout this school year. Students were split into small groups where they shared ideas, played games, and worked with one another and a teacher, support staff, high school student, or parent volunteer to make the topics relevant to our middle school. Thank you to our high school and parent volunteers for helping to make these retreats a success!
THE RETREAT COVERED THE FOLLOWING TOPICS:
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THE HUMAN NEED TO BELONG Students learned the importance of being accepted for being oneself instead of changing oneself to try to fit in. ABOVE THE LINE AND BELOW THE LINE THINKING Students revisited this core part of Top 20 Training and focused on paying attention to their thinking so they know when it is working in our best interest (above the line) and when it is not working (below the line). HOW TO FORM AMAZING RELATIONSHIPS This part focused on Communicating YOU Matter and Honoring the Absent, two of the Spartan Standards we use across the middle school. BELIEFS TO BECOME THE BEST VERSION OF OURSELVES This final portion focused on why confusion/being confused while learning is important and how listening helps us in this capacity.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS
Read-A-Thon fundraiser
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS
Our amazing SES Parent Group held a Read-A-Thon fundraiser in February. The students raised $16,628.80! In total, the students read 62,943 minutes. Our top reader was Eleanor Lindstrom, reading 2,648 minutes! There were prizes the kids could earn with the minutes they read and the funds they raised. Two of the prizes they could earn were a hot cocoa bar and a pizza party. The Somerset Elementary parent group has been so supportive and we are so happy to have them in our building doing fantastic things for our kids!
Childcare Services for School-Age Kids! Before School Care ~ JK Wrap Care ~ After School Care ~ Non-School Days ~ Summer Check out the Spartan
Kids Club Website! www.somerset.k12.wi.us
THIRD GRADE KINDNESS The third grade students recently completed a Kindness Challenge. Each student was given the challenge of making a difference with only $1.00. Students, together with their families, brainstormed ideas on how to use the dollar. The heartwarming and creative acts of kindness were recorded in a class book and presented at a celebration of kindness in hopes that it inspires others to do something kind. The challenge was sponsored by the Somerset Community Foundation and Carpeting by Mike.
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ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS
BLACK LIGHT ARTWORK Amy Stevens was able to purchase new black lights with the funds raised from the Square 1 Art fundraiser. Our students did a fantastic job with their artwork that was displayed during our art show at the February parent/teacher conferences.
CALENDAR WINNER Our very own Owen Kraft was a winner for the St. Croix County Sheriff’s Stop Substance Abuse Calendar Contest. His picture is proudly displayed in the calendar for the month of June.
DISTRICT NEWS
ART SHOW The Somerset Public Library will be hosting an art show, displaying several selected works of art from our area youth in grades K-12. The show will be open from April 13th until May 31st, during regular library hours. There will be a gallery opening on April 20th from 4-7:00 p.m. celebrating those students whose artwork was selected for display. The show is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the creative expression and artistic knowledge of our community’s children! Thank you to the Somerset Public Library for hosting this event! What a beautiful and inspiring space to exhibit beautiful and inspiring artwork!
CHILD FIND SUMMARY The school district has a child find or screening program to locate, identify, and evaluate all children with suspected disabilities who are residents of the school district including children attending private school, in the school district, and homeless children. Children are referred for a special education evaluation by school staff, parents, doctors, and other community service agencies. The School District of Somerset held our spring child find activity and had the opportunity to meet many of our new spartans! If you were not able to bring in your child that day and you have questions regarding your child’s development, please contact the School District of Somerset’s Director of Pupil Services, Abbiegail Bohatta at 715-247-4400 x575 or abohatta@somerset.k12.wi.us.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT UPDATE
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The Somerset School District is continuing to implement ALICE protocols within our campus, as a part of our Emergency Management plans and procedures. ALICE stands for Alert, Lockdown with Barricade, Inform, Counter, Evacuate. It is designed to provide staff and students options for how to best increase chances of survival in the event of an active shooter incident. Each building continues to review the ALICE protocols throughout the school year with students and staff in an age-appropriate manner. If you have further questions about Emergency Management within the Somerset School District, please contact Somerset School District Director of Pupil Services, Abbiegail Bohatta at 715-247-4400 x575 or abohatta@somerset.k12.wi.us.
TRANSPORTATION Information from the current school year will carry over for the upcoming school year. Current information can be reviewed through Campus Parent. If everything looks correct, please check back in the fall for updated route information. Transportation changes will be accepted until August 1st. Transportation information for the 22-23 school year will be available mid-August. Please make sure to update your contact information and notification settings in Campus Parent so that you don’t miss important messages or announcements, including those related to transportation. In addition to keeping parents informed through Infinite Campus, The District also uses Facebook, The Spartan Scoop, and the Announcements area of the Somerset School District website to keep parents and community members informed. There are so many great things happening in Somerset Schools, and we hope that you are as excited about the District as we are! The website will provide the most up-to-date Business Services information for the upcoming school year. Have a great summer!
PLEASE FILL OUT THE TRANSPORTATION FORM IF: Student did not ride in the current year, but will need transportation for 2022-2023 Student is new to SomersetSchool District Note: Junior Kindergarten students have a separate form Student address has changed Student requires different accommodations for the upcoming school year Student no longer needs busing (drives, lives in walking area, etc)
The QR codes for Transportation forms are: For Junior Kindergarten (half-day)
K-12 Form
FOOD SERVICE The latest guidance the WI DPI has received from USDA is that the area eligibility waiver that allows schools, regardless of their location, to serve free meals under the Seamless Summer Option (SSO) expires on the school or district’s last day of the 2021-22 academic school year. The annual Household Application for Free and Reduced Price School Meals is available to families after July each year - please watch for information this summer if you are interested in filling out an application for the 2022-2023 school year. Meal prices for the 2022-2023 school year will be available prior to the start of the school year.
THE SPARTAN SCOOP The Spartan Scoop is a district-wide communication sent to families and staff. It includes news and information in regard to District News, High School News, Middle School News, Elementary School News, Athletics & Activities News, and Community Events and Offerings. The Spartan Scoop is available on the District Website under Quick Links District News/ Spartan Scoop.
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Debbie Stevens
School Retirements
Mrs. Stevens joined the Somerset Middle School staff 18 years ago after subbing in Glenwood City for 23 years. She was one of our first teachers to have a SmartBoard in her classroom and has enjoyed her students’ abilities to meet her high expectations. Some of Mrs. Stevens’ fondest memories are of her students sewing their hats or shorts and being so proud of making something out of a piece of fabric. She has loved the “competition” of her 8th-grade classes who work to outdo the previous sections with their World Day recipes and grand totals from bake sales. Our students have such pride in their work and big hearts to give to others. The blanket parade is always a highlight as students are serious with their work. Mrs. Stevens enjoys watching her students go from “don’t have a clue” to “I can do this”. It might be a sewing lab or a cooking lab, but when you give the kids time, show them what to do (or at least explain things) then let them go. They can do some amazing things! Mrs. Stevens plans to spend some more time camping, riding their UTV, getting caught up on some sewing projects, and visiting her grandkids. She really enjoyed teaching at Somerset Middle School and will miss the students and the staff.
Tracy Yndestad
Ms. Yndestad has spent the last 15 years working to create an environment in our library media center where students can read, be creative, and feel comfortable. Ms. Yndestad has been a part of the library transformation twice with renovations to better meet the needs of our students. One of the biggest changes Tracy has witnessed was the district’s move to a 1:1 Chromebook for students. Over her time, Ms. Yndestad has loved making connections with the kids and helping them find books they like, building friendships with my colleagues, and being surrounded by books. One of her favorite memories is when the middle school staff completed the high ropes course together. Ms. Yndestad plans to travel west to the Pacific Ocean with her dad, work on all the projects she has started and has yet to finish, and simply enjoy life! She is going to miss everyone at SMS as well as snow days as there is nothing like a good snow day.
Judy Young
After 31 years in education, Mrs. Young is set to move on to the next phase of her life, retirement! She has loved her years as a special education teacher as she has been able to watch students with extremely challenging circumstances earn their diplomas and graduate from high school. For Mrs. Young, COVID has had such a huge impact on teaching, students, & learning. It gave us opportunities to learn new methods of instructional delivery, assessment, and student achievement. She has always believed that teamwork is the best way to ensure that students feel safe, value their educational opportunities, and reach their potential. Mrs. Young feels Somerset is a wonderful school district and it has been a thrill to teach here and work with our middle school students and staff. She has been blessed to work with outstanding colleagues who are very dedicated to the profession of teaching. They are mentors who have become her friends. The support she received from the Somerset MS staff during a health crisis still brings tears to her eyes. She never expected it, but it was great to come home from a medical appointment or a treatment and have food ready and right there for her family’s supper. Next up for Judy is “Grandma Duty”. She wants to plan educational trips with her grandchildren so that the curriculum comes to life for them as they move through the grades. She also wants to get her household in order after years of neglect, play outside everyday, and get in daily exercise. Mrs. Young may learn to cook again and she will continue her quilt making. Mrs. Young cannot believe she is an “old lady” who is ready to retire!
Sherrie Hosley
1. How long have you worked in our district? 2. What is a fun memory you have of your time here? 3. What do you plan to do in your retirement time? Over 15 years I am taking with me many fun memories working with students in my early years here at Somerset and since working for some of the best coworkers a gal could ask for. In my retirement I’m planning on spending more time with my husband, children and grandchildren. Travel to Arizona and Hawaii are on the agenda ~ On the warm days here you can find me on the back of our Harley or Honda Talon taking scenic photos.
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George Leopold
School Retirements
George Leopold has been a leader and working supervisor in the buildings and grounds department for more than ten years. He is described as an inquisitive and personable man, and has been part of the team of Somerset School District employees who support the operations of the district. He has been vital to the success of the district. George’s knowledge, hard work, and attention to detail were key factors in the completion of the construction work done as a result of the referendum passed in 2019. He worked diligently overseeing the work and contractors for the $28.6 million projects. George won 2019 WASBO Custodian/Maintenance Employee of the Year Award based on his outstanding work and career in maintenance. The impeccable care that was given to our grounds and buildings under George’s leadership has helped develop district pride over the years and as a result continues to encourage community involvement and dedication to our school system. George has plans to travel with his wife in their RV, visiting friends and family and taking the time to explore national parks and places of interest that he has not had the time or opportunity to visit while working.
Carol Switzer
Carol has worked in the district between the Elementary and Middle School for the last 9.5 years supporting students. She will miss her co-workers and the students the most. She shared that “some students really get to you and your heart”. She is looking forward to being a full time grandma, mom and wife and plans to travel with her family and her sister. One of Carol’s favorite memories at Somerset Middle school is the field trip to the ropes course.The pride and excitement in our students faces as they overcome fears and challenges.The support and positive comments from their peers as they built up their courage to continue on was amazing. It was fun seeing the students in a social setting and listening to them laugh and enjoy themselves.
Mary Jane Mielke
You can’t retire from being great! That is the sentiment of middle school students and staff when it comes to Mary Jane Mielke. She started at the middle school as a computer aide in 2004 when we were still trying to figure out what that might be. She made herself at home in the library, computer labs, classrooms, and playground. Whenever the middle school needed anything, Ms. Mielke was there with a smile on her face! Often you could see Mary Jane altering prom dresses, wedding gowns or costumes during her lunch break. She spent many years as a middle school drama director (the good kind of drama) and helped our students find the thespian within themselves. Ms. Mielke now gets to enjoy more time with her granddaughter and continues to make those dresses fit like gloves. Thank you, Ms. Mielke for all you have done for SMS, we will miss you!
Dr. Mark Bezek
Dr. Mark Bezek has been with the Somerset School District for the last 6 years. During his time here, he has made a lasting impact on our school district and greater community. His knowledge, experience, and passion led to the successful passing of a referendum in 2019, which has contributed to a better education experience for our students and staff. He also facilitated the process which brought about our current strategic plan which has resulted in many action steps for a better school district. Dr. Bezek has also been instrumental in bringing the District and community together with the creation of Bridging Somerset 2.0, and his numerous strategic planning sessions to help shape a vision and mission for a stronger partnership. The district is extremely grateful for his leadership and we wish him the very best as he enters his retirement.
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STAYING CONNECTED WITH TECHNOLOGY
The School District of Somerset is no exception when it comes to the risk of cyber attacks which are an ever present threat and need to be taken seriously. The District has done just that and implemented changes this past school year to help mitigate these risks. Our elementary students were given enhanced passwords and login procedures to make their accounts more secure. We are currently in the process of rolling out 2 factor authentication to all staff. The staff are being trained and tested on cyber security and phishing so that they can spot attempts to compromise our systems. This will better secure our district data against malicious activity. Seesaw was implemented as our communication tool and learning management system for all elementary school students and parents, including Junior Kindergarten. Seesaw allows our teachers to easily communicate with families as well as organize digital content for our students. Google Classroom has been utilized in the middle and high school for these purposes over the last several years. Students will have access to resources during the summer! All their favorite educational games and programs will be available through Classlink. To access Classlink, have your child click the blue and white cloud icon in the upper right corner of the district homepage. Use their student number and new enhanced password to login. If a password is needed, elementary students should contact the elementary school office, middle and high school students should use the “Help, I forgot my password” link.
2021-2022 Virtual & Digital Learning Update The School District of Somerset continued the virtual learning program for the 2021-22 school year. First semester saw 5 students join the program full time and we will end the year with 16 full time students. The program allows the district to offer our students an alternative education path and stay competitive with the districts around us. The district will offer the virtual program to 6th through 12th grade students for the 2022-2023 school year. Application for enrollment into the program is required and will be open July 1st to July 31st. For questions, please consult the Somerset Virtual Program website or email Brandon Berrey.
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2021-2022 saw the 2nd year of our newly created Virtual Learning Coordinator. In his role, Brandon Berrey, not only administrates the virtual program, but also serves as the district’s technology integrator. As the demand for the virtual program dropped, it allowed for more time helping teachers with technology in the classroom. Brandon spends time in the high school health class teaching about digital citizenship which includes digital footprint, internet safety, and cyberbullying. Students are also taught how to create and edit videos to demonstrate their knowledge of various topics in various subjects. The main goal is to help teachers use technology to save time, improve student engagement, and allow students to better demonstrate their knowledge of various topics.
A NOTE FROM THE DISTRICT ADMINISTRATOR SOMERSET SCHOOLS HEADING TO A BRIGHT FUTURE! I am very grateful to our school community for supporting the school district during the last two years, as we navigated through the uncharted waters of the pandemic. We had to make many unpopular decisions during this time for the good of our students, staff, and school community. I am very proud of how our system performed during these difficult times. We learned a great deal over the past two years and will be better prepared for future world challenges. With the passage of the 2019 Bond and Levy all of our schools and grounds have a new clean look and improved security during the summer of 2020. I cannot thank the Somerset area residents enough for their support in passing the largest construction bond in the district’s history, and investing in the future of our children. The referendum passed in 2019 took care of half the needs of the school district. We took care of many infrastructure and mechanical updates. The activities portion was dropped to insure the passage of the infrastructure needs. A facilities committee has been formed to study the remaining activity needs facing the district. This committee has met several times over the past months to examine the needs and costs of upgrading our facilities. Committee members will be making a recommendation to the school board on several projects. The school board will look at the proposed projects and make a decision to survey the broader community to determine the level of support for these projects. Once the survey is complete, the school board will make a final determination as to what projects will move forward for a fall 2022 public election. Projects that have support of the facilities committee were: n Performing Arts Center (auditorium) n Rebuilding of the track and stadium n Additional gym space n Baseball and softball complex on campus n Additional grounds and maintenance work If you haven’t noticed, housing construction has begun around our campus. Home construction has been on the rise throughout our district. The 350 plus homes surrounding our campus are mostly family-friendly homes and will surely add students to our schools. The facilities committee sees the above listed projects as community needs in order to keep us competitive not only in curricular and co-curricular activities but as a progressive community willing to invest in our children’s future. Our Strategic Plan is our roadmap to the future. Each year, in the spring, a wide demographic of community members (The Core Planning Team) gathers to evaluate our work of the previous school year. Unfortunately, due to the circumstances of last spring, we were unable to gather in person but progress was documented for each of the results statements in play last year. Our Mission is “Together we Engage, Educate, and Empower all learners; bridging their passions to pathways to create successful futures and positively contribute to our local and global communities”. The Strategic Plan is made up of our Mission, Core Values, 2 Learner Outcomes, 4 Strategies, and 28 Result Statements. The complete Strategic Plan document as well as our yearly progress can be found on our district website. Our administrative team, employees and school board are dedicated to providing the Somerset community with a high quality educational experience for each and every learner. It is the goal of the school board, administrative team, and all employees to offer a safe and caring learning environment, while offering a world class education to each and every learner while being prudent with taxpayer dollars. The School Board will be spending a great deal of time this spring hiring a new District Administrator. After 42 years in education, I have decided to retire. I am pleased that I was fortunate enough to spend the last six years of my career with the students, staff, and school community of the Somerset area. Thank you!
Dr. Mark R Bezek District Administrator
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School District of Somerset P.O. Box 100 Somerset, WI 54025
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