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FALL 2017 | ALUMNI & FRIENDS MAGAZINE

200

WLHS students

have joined Wisco Witnesses in the World

“You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8

GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.

Welcome

A Message from Pastor Kenneth Fisher President of the WLHS Conference Pray for Continuing Growth For the third year in a row, Wisconsin Lutheran High School welcomed a freshmen class of more than two hundred thirty students as we continue a cycle of healthy growth. The vast majority of freshmen (81%) came from our Lutheran elementary schools and we had the highest percentage of teens from our suburban schools matriculate in over five years. It is a great class and we’re excited to see the continuing strong enrollment. God is good! Growth isn’t just about class size. At Wisconsin Lutheran High School, we seek to grow the whole person—by engaging, elevating and educating the mind, body and soul. That’s what makes your school so different. Our academic excellence, combined with opportunities for athletic achievement and artistic expression, all thrive upon the core foundation of Christ-centered teaching, offered within a caring environment. And our commitment to diversity prepares young adults to engage and successfully navigate the real world. In these ways, WLHS strives to create the perfect balance of growth in all of these dimensions to produce, not just high-achieving students, but successful, well-balanced Christians. We are preparing each student for what happens in the years long after graduation—to become faith-filled parents, faith-filled leaders and strong, faithful life-long followers of Christ. So, my friends, thank you for supporting this work of your school and I’d invite your prayers for these 231 incoming freshmen that they “may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God” (Col 1:1). In Christ service,

Pastor Kenneth Fisher President of WLHS

WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Fall 2017

In This Issue

To God the Glory! Guided by Faith Driven by Excellence Faculty News & Accomplishments Faculty Additions New Offerings at WLHS WLHS Good News Grapevine/In Loving Memory Homecoming/School News WLHS Fashion Show

Upcoming Events

Veterans Day (observed at WLHS) Scholarship Luncheon Christmas Pops Concert Sacred Christmas Concert 5th Grade Extravaganza Winter Festival Kids Carnival School Musical - How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying

Page 3 Page 4-5 Page 6-7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12-13 Page 14-15 Back cover

November 9 November 16 December 3 December 10 January 28 February 2 February 18 March 2, 3 & 4

View additional events and get more information at www.wlhs.org.

For Christ’s Love Compels Us . . . 2 Corinthians 5:14

Our Mission

Compelled by Christ’s love, guided by the Great Commission, and rooted in God’s Word . . . Wisconsin Lutheran High School prepares young adults for productive, Christ-centered lives in a diverse world.

Our Vision

Renowned for its distinctive Lutheran values, superior academics, and award-winning co-curricular activities . . . Wisconsin Lutheran High School will be the preferred choice for those seeking a comprehensive Christian high school experience in a caring, cross-cultural setting.

On the Cover:

Wisco Witnesses in the World (WWW) is a new organization at WLHS that encompasses Share the Mission and Agents of Change.

To God the Glory!

Freshmen Recruitment Program Bears Fruit Four years ago, teachers Brad Wetzel and Mark Ricke each made a commitment to serve WLHS in a new capacity. Wetzel became director of admissions and Ricke took the role as director of enrollment. In addition, both men continued to teach one to two classes each semester.

The number of grade school activities Wetzel and Ricke plan, execute, and participate in is tremendous, involves many individuals and ranges from leading chapel services to conducting classroom visits to chaperoning field trips and making Mother’s Day and Father’s Day cards.

By God’s grace, the seeds Wetzel and Ricke began sowing with grade school students and their parents flourished. This year’s freshman class is 231 strong. In fact, the enrollment rate from WELS grade schools is the highest it’s been in the past five years!

“Mark and I have embraced our roles of being the face of WLHS to the nearly 5,000 students we get to see multiple times each year,” says Wetzel. “We appreciate the collegiality we have with the principals and teachers at our Lutheran elementary schools. It’s a wonderful blessing to have a prekindergarten to 12th grade partnership with each of our WELS grade schools.”

“Our large freshman class is a blessing. They bring with them different gifts and backgrounds that make our student body rich,” says Principal Phil Leyrer. “Students are among a school’s greatest assets; the class of 2021 is more evidence of God’s favor on WLHS.”

Meet the Class of 2021

231

FRESHMEN

132 FRESHMEN REPRESENT 34 WELS CONGREGATIONS

• 81% are from WELS grade schools • 16% of the class tested into advanced level math or language courses

Star of Bethlehem, New Berlin

DOUBLE DIGIT FRESHMEN

Seven WELS grade schools sent 10 or more students to WLHS!

St. Marcus, Milwauke e

St. John, Milwaukee

RECRUITMENT BY THE NUMBERS (2016-17)

SENT

OR MORE STUDENTS

10 11

St. John, Wauwatosa

St. Lucas, Bay View

St. Paul, Muskego

Garden Homes, Milw.

• 16 - Reading Buddy visits by varsity football players • 83 - grade school chapel services conducted by Wetzel, Ricke, Pastor Ken Fisher and theology instructor Keith Bowe • 227 - 4th and 6 th grade parents and students attended Make a Splash events • 250+ - 3rd – 8th grade classroom visits • 254 - parents and students enjoyed the 5 th Grade Extravaganza • 331 - 7th – 8th parents and students toured WLHS during the November Open House (This year’s Open House will also include 6th graders and their parents.) • 400+ - 4th graders participated in 21 Roundabout events at WLHS Members of the 2021 freshman class

Guided by Faith WLHS Today

The past three years, Wisconsin Lutheran High School has recorded some of its largest freshmen classes in decades. Those incoming students have raised the school’s total enrollment to 773—a nearly 10% increase since 2014.

If you haven’t visited WLHS recently, we’d like to introduce you to our growing student body of Christian young men and women.

Our Students APPROXIMATELY

3.4+ GPA

students are on the % ofhonor roll The average GPA of the top 25% (first quartile) of this year’s senior class is 3.915. The average GPA of the Top Ten seniors is 3.998.

98%

of graduates pursue post-secondary education or join a branch of the Armed Forces

50.2%

Caucasian

85% of students are involved in a co-curricular activity

33.4% AfricanAmerican

9.6% 6.1% 0.7% Other

Latino/ Hispanic

Asian

G r o w t h F a c t o rs An increase to more than

annual scholarships

An increase in students from high-performing WELS grade schools choosing WLHS through the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program. An expansion of the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program, which allows families living in the suburbs to select WLHS.

WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Fall 2017

This year, 28 WPCP students (16 freshmen and 12 sophomores) eagerly walked through our doors—more than double from last year.

A recognized International Program that includes 34 students from Canada, China, South Korea, Vietnam and our first from Ecuador! A two-year-old Domestic Student Residential Program that has enrolled four students—three sophomores and one freshman— from Virginia and California.

B r o a d Su p p o rt Tim Mueller, principal of Star of Bethlehem Lutheran School, New Berlin “Over the past years, I’ve seen WLHS deliver a high level of excellence to all kids, in all facets of education—academic education, social education, emotional education and, most importantly, spiritual education. Another powerful driver I’ve witnessed at Wisco is love. I know my Star kids are in classrooms with teachers who love Jesus and those teachers love their students. Every day, Wisco teachers are challenging every student to uncover and apply the individual abilities God has given them. I wholeheartedly support the mission of Wisconsin Lutheran High School.”

This year, 16 out of 22 Star of Bethlehem eighth graders joined the WLHS freshmen class.

Corey and Ericka (Brown) Tipton, parents of freshman Corey Tipton Jr., Saint Lucas Lutheran School, Bay View, Ericka is ’94 grad “We chose WLHS because we saw a great Christ-centered curriculum, AP courses, a good athletic program and a diverse atmosphere. We wanted our son to be able to achieve his goals—no matter what career path he takes. We knew that he would grow spiritually and academically at WLHS.” Tipton family (Corey Jr. pictured far right)

“My favorite part of high school so far are my classes. I’m meeting people every day and making new friends. Plus, I’m learning a lot and doing better than I ever have,” Corey Tipton Jr.

Keith and Jodi (Carlson) Eismann (both class of ’91), parents of freshman Jensen Eismann, Brookfield Christian School “I’m passionate about Wisco. I credit my high school teachers for helping mold me into the person I am today. Wisco teachers gave me care and compassion and reminded me daily of Jesus’ love. The experience my wife and I had made Wisco an easy decision for us.” “The teachers and coaches are my favorite part of high school so far. They are all very nice and have a Christian attitude. The upper classmen have offered a warm welcome, too. For me, it’s a great atmosphere to be in,” Jensen Eismann.

This year, 6 out of 8 Christ the Lord eighth graders joined the WLHS freshmen class.

Eisemann family (Jensen pictured back middle)

Pastor David Kolander, Christ the Lord Lutheran Church, Brookfield and WELS Southeastern WI District President “Our parents at Christ the Lord highly value what the Wisconsin Lutheran High School experience provides for their children: caring, involved teachers; a diverse student body from various parts of Metro-Milwaukee; the expectation of academic excellence and the support to achieve it; a positive emphasis on extra-curriculars in the arts and athletics; and an others-oriented frame of reference which seeks to serve rather than be served—all based on the forgiving love of Jesus and the constant involvement with his Word in worship and in class. This is what makes Wisconsin Lutheran an invaluable part of our congregation’s educational ministry.”

Benjamin Sanchez, member of the WLHS Board of Directors, proud parent of a WLHS freshman and two WLHS graduates who are attending Martin Luther College “Our grade schools are buying into the mission of Wisco. We are starting early in our elementary schools to share our vision and create excitement. We are also educating our current and future parents about the Choice program and how many individuals qualify for this help. The program assists a wide range of families. We have to change the perception of what the Choice program is. The most important thing at Wisco is having the word of God shared every day to create the whole person who’s successful academically and firmly rooted in their faith.”

Driven by Excellence Savvy Communicators

Whether they’re on-air or working behind-the-scenes, these alumni credit WLHS as a springboard for their success. Shannen Oesterreich (’11) “Ridder, Scott and Shannen” Morning Show on FM 106.1

Shannen Oesterreich WLHS Experience: I transferred to Wisco my sophomore year and really enjoyed it. I liked the fact that it was bigger than my previous high school and it was diverse—that made it more like the real world. You weren’t closed off. You could mix and mingle with so many different people. It really was a great campus life with a lot of offerings. I was in plays, musicals, the track team and National Honor Society. You could almost do everything. Preparation: When I got to Madison, I realized how well Wisco prepared me. I was ahead of my peers. In my writing class, they were reviewing things I already knew. I was in calc and it was easy because I had learned the material with Mr. Gottschalk. In a lecture class of a few hundred people, I got the third highest calc score. I was definitely prepared for college. I wouldn’t have traded my high school for the world. Favorite Teachers: The relationships I had with my teachers were special. I still keep in touch with Mr. Bilitz and the Festerlings. The teachers made you feel like you were part of a family and created a bond, a sense of community. They were interested, wanted to know about your life and wanted to help you with anything. From the teachers, I learned to be a helping hand wherever I go. They were role models of Christian leadership and taught me important people skills. Lifelong Friends: I think the religious connection keeps my WLHS friendships strong. I’m still close with my best friend from high school. There’s also a group of eight Wisco girls who, at the end of senior year, made a pact to be involved in each other’s weddings and we’ve kept that promise! 6

WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Fall 2017

Scott Warras (’99) Executive Producer, Newsradio 620 WTMJ; Radio Play-by-play Announcer, UWMilwaukee Panthers Men’s Basketball Scott Warras

WLHS Difference: I always tell people Wisco got me started on my career. There were two moments that really made a difference. Freshman year I was on Pilot, Wisco’s student newspaper. The sports editor and I decided we wanted to do a Q&A with Jim Powell who called Brewers baseball with Bob Uecker. I’ll never forget interviewing him at County Stadium. From then on, I knew I wanted to work in sports broadcasting. The other significant event was a summer radio workshop at North Central College in Naperville, Ill., that Ms. Grzanna found for me. It was one of the most memorable weeks of my life and cemented my career choice. Favorite Teachers: I enjoyed Mr. Lueck’s World History. He was so energetic and enthusiastic. He used different and innovative teaching techniques to get you involved and engaged with the subject. Preparation: I had a smooth transition into college. There was never a moment when I felt like I was behind or not ready. Wisco has some of the best teachers and they did their job of preparing me. In American Government with Mr. Mark Leverence, we had to do presentations. I remember it was the first time where I gave a speech and wasn’t really nervous. From that point forward, I began to enjoy public speaking more and more. Career Path: I’ve seen the Lord’s hand throughout my career. In a business that’s very transient and tumultuous, I feel blessed to have had stability and the opportunity to remain in the city where I grew up. I’ve been with WTMJ-AM for nearly nine years— eight as the producer for “Midday with Charlie Sykes.” At the same time, I’ve been able to pursue my love of sports through play-by-play announcing at UW-Milwaukee.

Ashley (Christophersen) Bakke (’07) Assistant Vice President, PR Specialist Robert W. Baird

Ashley Bakke WLHS Advantage: During my freshman year at Marquette University, a professor pulled me aside to ask where I went to high school because she was so impressed with my writing skills. I give a ton of credit to Mr. Tatge and his Advanced Composition class. The class was challenging but it’s striking how much I learned. I believe that class and Mr. Tatge’s guidance were crucial to my college success and ultimately my future career. Favorite Teachers: There were a lot of great teachers who I felt truly cared about you and were really invested in your future success. Mr. Bowe, Mr. Kren and Mr. Tatge were some of those teachers for me. They wanted you to get good grades but also see you grow as a young Christian adult. Experience: I played volleyball all four years so I equate much of my high school experience with athletics. I loved my time as a Lady Viking and had tremendous friendships with my teammates. I really enjoyed traveling southeastern Wisconsin to play different conference teams and it was a privilege to be in the gym everyday playing a game I love. Preparation: There’s really no substitute for a Christian education. I was surrounded by parents, teachers and coaches who were tremendous Christian examples. They demonstrated the value of a strong work ethic and taught me how to deal with challenges and setbacks in life. Those were powerful lessons as a young student and they carried well beyond high school into my career and my life. Final Thoughts: I’m proud I went to Wisco. It’s sort of a family legacy. My grandparents attended Lutheran High School. My parents, Tracey (Kraklow) and Eric Christophersen, were high school sweethearts from the class of 1980 and my two brothers, Jon (’04) and Justin (’11) are also WLHS graduates.

Mike Westendorf (’92) Director of Operations for University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee Innovative Weather, On-air Meteorologist for 89.7 WUWM-FM, Worship Leader at The Bridge at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Muskego

Mike Westendorf

WLHS Experience: For me, it was a safe place to belong. My sophomore year two seniors took an interest in me and that really made my high school experience even better. They saw something in me. We’d hang out and joke around. My senior year, my friends and I tried to do the same thing—be welcoming and kind. We wanted to be the type of guys underclassmen would look up to. Preparation: I knew in high school that I wanted to be a meteorologist. When I got to UW-Milwaukee, I felt I was well prepared from a math and study skills standpoint. Favorite Teachers: Mr. Greschner, Coach Lemke, Pastor Becker and Mr. Thoms. Mr. Greschner’s physics class was difficult but he told you upfront that he was getting you ready for college. After high school, I had some conversations with him about faith and science. It was helpful to look a person with a science background in the eye and know that he loved Jesus AND science. It made some of the secular science less intimidating. It was really comforting to have a faith resource to go back to. Next Generation: My wife and I knew we wanted our children to have a Wisco education. We prayed for months and months to find a way to Wisco and, because of the persistence of the admissions office, we got our Choice paperwork completed and were selected. It was a huge blessing for us. Our son, Adam, is a 2017 graduate and our daughter, Abby, is currently a junior. WLHS Today: In 2017, I think you find the world at Wisco. I like that because my kids are interacting with different types of people and personalities. Early in life, they’re getting a really good foundation to be leaders. They’re learning how to apply Christian principles to different life situations and issues. The real world is knowing and using your faith during challenging times. GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.

Faculty News & Accomplishments

As part of WLHS’ focus on academic excellence, a number of faculty members have recently earned or are currently pursuing advanced degrees. Advanced degrees

Faculty Activities

Campus Pastor Phil Huebner is working on his doctor of ministry in Missions and Culture from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Katie Luebke

Math teacher Katie Luebke is working on her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Concordia University in Mequon. Luebke holds a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota and joined WLHS in fall 2016 after teaching at Rufus King High School and Bryant & Stratton College.

Blair Schaper earned his master’s degree in Athletic Management from Cardinal Stritch University this summer. Schaper teaches a variety of math courses, including Honors Geometry and Money Matters. He also coaches girls cross country and girls track and leads the Junior Vikings program. Spanish teacher Tanya Tranberg earned her master’s degree in Education with a focus on High Performance Instruction from Wisconsin Lutheran College in May. Tranberg is World Language Department Coordinator and Drama Club adviser. This fall, she’s directing “The Crucible,” which is the 11th WLHS production she’s led.

Anna Kolander

Biology teacher Anna Kolander spent a week in Zambia visiting two schools that were established by the Edgar and Meta Hoenecke Vulnerable Children’s Foundation. Kolander is a member of the board of directors and has traveled to the country four times to support the schools, encourage the missionaries who serve and identify unmet needs. Campus Pastor Phil Huebner is a “Your Time of Grace” contributor and recently shared a series for teens.

This August, teacher Andre Gosch and three WLHS students traveled with Dr. John Werner and nursing Pastor Huebner student Erin Nitz of Wisconsin Lutheran College to Mwembezhi, Zambia. The six-person team worked with volunteers from Mwembezhi Lutheran Church and medical clinic to build a fully functioning aquaponics system that will produce a regular supply of fish and vegetables. During the 2016-17 school year, Student Council and National Honor Society raised $26,704 to fund the system.

Brad Wetzel is currently enrolled in the MSOE Rader School of Business, pursuing an MBA in Education Leadership through an accelerated, 18-month program. Wetzel is director of admissions for WLHS, teaches trigonometry and helps coach varsity football. Brad Wetzel

A number of new faculty and staff members are also pursuing or have already earned advanced degrees – Cheryl Belott, Brian Doebler, Emily Jiles, Tammy Leyrer, Tim McEachern and Marc Shambeau. Please see the next page for more details.

WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Fall 2017

WLHS students in Zambia with teacher Andre Gosch

Faculty Additions

WLHS is welcoming a number of new faces to its campus. Cheryl (Gottschalk) Belott (‘98)

Spanish Teacher, Girls JV Basketball Coach Cheryl Belott has been teaching Spanish for the past 15 years. Her prior experience includes positions with Morse Marshall High School for the Gifted and Talented, Morse Middle School for the Gifted Cheryl Belott and Talented, Rufus King High School and Butler Middle School. Belott is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Carroll University. The Belott family worships at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Menomonee Falls.

Pastor Brian Doebler

Theology Teacher and Assistant Girls Soccer Coach Brian Doebler comes to WLHS via Redding, California, where he was pastor of Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and led his congregation’s Spanish language outreach ministry. Doebler is currently Pastor Doebler enrolled in a doctoral program at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. His wife, Jessica (Martin), is a ‘99 graduate of WLHS. The Doebler family worships at St. John Lutheran Church, Milwaukee.

Emily Jiles (‘03)

Guidance Counselor Emily Jiles is a graduate of Wisconsin Lutheran College and holds a master’s degree in School Counseling from Marquette University. She spent the last eight years at HOPE Christian High School overseeing admissions, Emily Jiles providing college counseling and serving as director of operations. Jiles worships at St. Marcus Lutheran Church, Milwaukee.

Lindsay Knight

Physical Science and Chemistry Teacher Lindsay Knight is a 2017 graduate of Martin Luther College where she received her bachelor of science degree in Elementary and Secondary Science Education. Knight and her husband worship at St. John Lutheran Church, Wauwatosa.

Tammy Leyrer

International Student Admissions Counselor and Instructor Tammy Leyrer comes to WLHS after 12 years with St. Croix Lutheran Academy where she taught Mandarin Chinese and served as international admissions counselor. She speaks Chinese Tammy Leyrer and holds a master’s degree in World Language Instruction from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. Leyrer and her husband, Peter, worship at Risen Savior Lutheran Church, Milwaukee, where he is the new pastor.

Tim McEachern (‘99)

Biology Teacher and Department Coordinator Tim McEachern previously taught at Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School, Southern Lutheran Academy and Luther Preparatory School. McEachern is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Tim McEachern Curriculum and Instruction from Martin Luther College. The McEachern family worships at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Milwaukee.

Casey Pufahl

Fine Arts Teacher and Choir Director Casey Pufahl spent the last 17 years at St. Croix Lutheran Academy serving as high school music chairman, student council adviser and lead academic adviser, in addition to directing Casey Pufahl musicals. In 2007, he earned his master’s degree in Education from Hamline University, St. Paul. The Pufahl family worships at Trinity Lutheran Church, Waukesha.

Marc Shambeau

Advanced Algebra and Precalculus Teacher, Assistant Coach Freshman Football and Boys Basketball Marc spent the last five years at Northland Lutheran High School teaching a variety of courses, including computer applications, Marc Shambeau geometry, precalculus, calculus, current events and history. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Leadership from Wisconsin Lutheran College. The Shambeau family worships at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Muskego.

New Offerings at WLHS

Impact through Action – Chick-fil-A Leader Academy™ Students have another opportunity to learn and lead thanks to the generosity of Jim Frasier, owner/operator of the Chick-fil-A on Capitol Dr. in Brookfield. For the second year, Frasier is sponsoring the Chick-fil-A Leader Academy™—a seven-month, after-school curriculum that engages, inspires and activates teens. Through regular Leader Labs, students acquire knowledge and leadership skills that they apply to a Community Impact Project. The program, led by Andre Gosch and CL Whiteside, debuted at WLHS last year and involved 35 sophomores and juniors.

“The Academy inspired me to get more involved, to help others and to position myself as a leader within school,” says Carringtin Wilson, now a senior, Siloah Lutheran School, Milwaukee. “Before I felt like I was just one person and couldn’t really have an impact. Now I know that by speaking up and setting an example I can make a difference.” In fact, in just four days last March, the Leader Academy teens raised $1,350 for the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society by hosting a “dress down” week. In exchange for a donation, WLHS students were allowed to wear approved joggers, sweatpants or basketball shorts for a day. “It’s important for students to realize they don’t have to wait until they’re adults to be a leader in life,” says Frasier, who funds the Leader Academy at seven Milwaukee-area high schools. “I look at the program as an investment in the generation of tomorrow.”

“It motivated me to try new things and go above and beyond. I went on a mission trip this summer, which is something I normally wouldn’t have signed up to do,” senior Quincy Minor, Garden Homes Lutheran School, Milwaukee (Quincy, pictured left, on the mission trip to Colorado Springs, Colo.)

In just the first few months, more than 200 students have joined WWW.

WWW – Wisco Witnesses in the World

nd go

WWW is a reconfigured organization that’s open to all students and encapsulates the activities that were previously part of Agents of Change and Share the Mission.

on trip

mally

“Our goal is to activate students in their faith lives and service lives and increase their presence in our local churches and schools. We also want to give them opportunities to serve and witness in the United States and throughout

WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Fall 2017

“I learned about teamwork and how to have an impact in the world. I felt like a young professional helping my community. I'm proud of what we came up with and how much we raised for such a worthy cause,” senior McKenna Godager, St. John Lutheran School, Wauwatosa (McKenna pictured on the mission trip to Spokane, Wash.).

the world,” says Campus Pastor Phil Huebner (’99) who is leading WWW. Huebner has expanded the number of mission trips offered from a dozen to nearly 20 and has reduced the cost so more students can participate. “We’d like to involve younger students in mission trips that are closer to home so they can experience the excitement of sharing God’s word and serving others early on in their time at Wisco,” he says.

Academics 22 students received Advanced Placement recognition based on their spring 2017 AP test results. WLHS had five AP Scholars; eight AP Scholars with Honor; and nine AP Scholars with Distinction.

WLHS Good News!

This September, the Vikings Robotics Team participated in Maker Faire Milwaukee at the Wisconsin State Fair’s Expo Center. Viking Robotics is a FTC (First Tech Challenge) robotics team.

58 members of the class of 2018 were inducted into the National Honor Society (NHS). Membership in the WLHS chapter of NHS requires a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.5 and a demonstrated record of participation in school activities, service to others and upstanding character. (Pictured, students from St. John Lutheran School, Wauwatosa). The English department is implementing a new textbook series for two levels of its curriculum. The series is designed for the 21st century learner and allows the students to work collaboratively, closely reading the text and accessing interactive supplementary materials on their Chromebooks.

26 students earned awards at the Wisconsin School Music Association State Solo & Ensemble Music Festival. Of special note: Meghan Ludke (‘18) was nominated and received the Exemplary Soloist award for her piano solo and Alyssa Casarez (‘19) and Faith Goede (‘18) were both were nominated for Exemplary Soloist.

School News More than 450 grade school students took part in Viking Explorers Summer Camps. Sessions offered included: theater, art, sewing, robotics, boys and girls basketball, volleyball, wrestling, strength and conditioning, cheerleading and more.

On August 21, a group of art and engineering students headed to southern Illinois with teacher James Hahm to see the total eclipse. The totality lasted a mere two and a half minutes and yet God’s amazing creation left all who saw it mesmerized and changed forever.

Co-curriculars Throughout their season, the boys and girls cross country teams have been building relationships with grade school runners by visiting their practices and helping out at meets. The girls team stopped by St. Paul Lutheran School, Muskego, to work with 3rd and 4th graders on stretching and drills. The boys team also practiced with St. John Lutheran School, Wauwatosa.

The main gym underwent major improvements during the summer. Most significantly, the gym is now air conditioned! In addition, sturdier bleachers were installed on the home side thanks to generous donations received from the Friends of Wisco Golf Outing.

Stay connected to WLHS! GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.

Alumni Grapevine

Laurie (Schafer) Hoffman (‘91), writing under the pen name Laurie Winter, has released her debut novel, HOME Field. The book is a sweet contemporary romance and is the first in her Warriors of the Heart series, which highlights the strength of those who have served in the US military along with the emotional fortitude of those who love them.

Reunions

Class of 1945 14 classmates from the class of ’45 gathered at Silver Spring Country Club on June 17, 2017, to celebrate their 72nd reunion.

Jean (Schram) Gunderson (’95) and her husband, Rev. Paul Gunderson, were blessed with the birth of a son, James Paul, on February 22, 2017. James joins big brothers Hans (age 4) and Karl (age 2). Jean is a teacher and her husband is pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Elkton, South Dakota. Lindsay (Smith) Zimpelmann (’98) and her husband, Rev. Adam Zimpelmann, were blessed with the birth of a son, Ezra on April 10, 2017. Ezra joins big brother Asher (age 1). Tim Kveen (’02) and his wife, Jessica, were blessed with the birth of a son, Samuel Luke, on April 24, 2017. Samuel joins big brothers Jonathan (age 8) and Andrew (age 4). Tim owns Hartford Self Storage and graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran College in 2006. Meaghan (Smith) Ward (’02) and her husband, Matthew, were blessed with the birth of a daughter, Scarlett Madeleine, on November 3, 2016. Scarlett joins big sisters Annabelle (age 4) and Lorelei (age 2). Meaghan is a registered nurse at Aurora Health Care’s Burlington clinic. Diana (Spiegelberg) Kerr (’07) and her husband, Kyle, were blessed with the birth of a son, Harrington James, on February 20, 2017. Diana is a certified professional life coach who also writes Grace Moments devotions and blog posts for Time of Grace and Brightpeak Financial. Kyle is a financial advisor with Thrivent Financial.

WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Fall 2017

Class of 1968 The class of ’68 is hosting its 50th reunion next September. On September 14, a casual get together will take place at The Landing at Hoyt Park. On September 15, the class will gather at WLHS in the Atrium for food and drinks. Contact Peg (Bunge) Raabe for details at 414-861-1150, rraabe1@wi.rr.com or visit wlhs68.com. Class of 1972

The class of ’72 held its 45th reunion at Wisconsin Lutheran High School on August 5, 2017. Classmates Kristine (Jeske) Metzger, executive director of the WLHS Foundation and Mary (Lawrenz) Schmal, WLHS English teacher, led a tour of the school’s new and updated facilities. Dennis Wegner, chef and owner of Wegner’s St. Martins Inn in Franklin, catered the dinner. The group also contributed to the WLHS Scholarship Fund in honor of the class of 1972.

Reunions cont. Class of 1978 Planning for the 40th reunion for the class of ’78 is underway. For more information or to help with the reunion, contact Terry (Lassanski) Gilman, 708-2974492, terrylynngilman@gmail.com or Mimi (Walther) Muehbach, 262-366-4809, mimim913@yahoo.com.

Now and Later! With another successful Grandparents Day in the rearview mirror, it’s a good time to take a look at why the day means so much to our school and our students. More than 250 grandparents enjoyed breakfast, chapel and a campus tour. Senior students got a special perk of lunch with their grandparents.

Visit www.wlhs.org/alumni or call Erin Krug at 414-453-4567 ext. 2012 to share your Grapevine and In Loving Memory updates!

In Loving Memory Class of 1950 Charles Zahn February 16, 2017

Class of 1958 Carolyn (Peck) Hunt April 25, 2016

Class of 1954 James Last June 8, 2017

Ronald Blecher December 20, 2016

Class of 1955 Bruce Oppermann March 5, 2017 Class of 1956 Marilyn Tank August 24, 2017

Class of 1966 Thomas Hartman March 9, 2017 Class of 1970 Randy Kolosovsky September 10, 2017 Class of 1972 Rev Timothy Johnston July 15, 2017

“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.” John 10:27-28

The overwhelming feeling that morning was the commitment shown by Wisco grandparents to their Wisco grandchildren. Families make a significant commitment when they decide to send a child to WLHS and grandparents are part of that. One of the topics of conversation was “now” and “later” gifts to WLHS, with “now” gifts being current support to the high school, while “later” gifts are those given to the high school after a donor’s lifetime. A gift like this—a planned gift—will: • • • • •

impact future generations support continued academic excellence prepare young adults for greater success in today’s diverse world cost you nothing during your lifetime leave a profound and lasting legacy

For years, grandparents Alan and Marion Treichel had been thinking about including WLHS in their will. Their connections to WLHS are many: Alan was a teacher at WLHS, all eight of the Treichel children graduated from WLHS and 14 grandchildren have graduated or are attending Wisco. A couple of weeks after the 2016 Grandparents Day, they contacted the WLHS Foundation to share that they had met with their lawyer and made the decision to include the Foundation in their will. They wanted to transform lives for generations. If you would like more information about how you can impact future generations of WLHS students through a “later” (planned) gift, please contact Kristine Metzger (’72), executive director, WLHS Foundation, 414-453-4567 ext. 2011, kris.metzger@wlhs.org, thewlhsfoundation.org. The WLHS Foundation, Inc. (EIN # 39-2028988)

GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.

Homecoming 2017

WISCONSIN LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL || Fall 2017

Homecoming 2017 was a spirited week at Wisconsin Lutheran! Activities included dress-up days, lunchtime competitions, a junior vs. senior girls powderpuff game, the crowning of Mr. Wisco, homecoming court, pep rally, soccer, volleyball and football games and much more. Alumni were invited to a Homecoming Social before the football game with food, games for kids, and tours of the school. Meg Grady (Mt. Calvary Lutheran School, Waukesha) was crowned queen with escort Austin Bertram (St. Jacobi Lutheran School, Milwaukee). Princesses included Lauren Bacik (Trinity Lutheran School, Waukesha) escorted by Lucas Roecker (Trinity Lutheran School, Waukesha), and Anna Johnson (St. John Lutheran School, Wawautosa) escorted by Ethen Nass (Trinity Lutheran School, Waukesha).

School News

(1-3) More than 250 grandparents attended Grandparents Day at WLHS on Wednesday, September 20, 2017. (4) In July, 144 golfers attended the 27th annual Friends of Wisco Golf Outing to raise money for WLHS athletics. (5) Almost 2,000 participants attended and 11 high schools performed at the WLHS Viking Marching Band Invitational, on Sunday, October 1, 2017. The band presented their show “Within The Shadows,” in exhibition.

WLHS is owned and operated by the following congregations joined together as the WLHS Conference Abiding Word Apostles of Christ Atonement Centennial Christ, Big Bend Christ, Milwaukee Christ, Pewaukee Christ the Lord Divine Peace Fairview Faith Garden Homes Gethsemane

Good Shepherd’s Grace, Milwaukee Grace, Waukesha Jordan Loving Shepherd Living Word Messiah Mt. Calvary Mt. Lebanon Nain Pilgrim Redemption Resurrection

Risen Savior St. Andrew St. Jacobi St. James St. John, Lannon St. John, Milwaukee St. John, Mukwonago St. John, Wauwatosa St. Lucas St. Marcus St. Mark St. Matthew St. Paul, Cudahy

St. Paul, Franklin St. Paul, Muskego St. Peter St. Philip Salem, Cramer Street Salem, 107th Street Siloah Star of Bethlehem Trinity Victory of the Lamb Woodlawn Zion, Hartland Zion, South Milwaukee

WLHS Contact © is the official alumni publication of the Wisconsin Lutheran High School Conference. President: Rev. Kenneth Fisher; Editor: Monica Baer-Carlson (‘87); Design/Layout: Carolyn Sachs; Contributing Writers: Rev. Kenneth Fisher, Monica Baer-Carlson (‘87); Photography: Attention Era Media, Ellen S. Cook Photography, Chuck Cairns, Tony Just Photography, Micah Ricke (‘06), Leanne Ross, Moments and Memories. Contact us with comments or questions at 414-453-4567, ext 2292, or via e-mail at carolyn.sachs@wlhs.org. Please notify Erin Krug (‘95) at 414-453-4567, ext 2012 or erin.krug@wlhs.org if you would like to be removed from our mailing list, change your contact information, or have contributions. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. TM used by permission of Zondervan.

GUIDED BY FAITH. DRIVEN BY EXCELLENCE.

WLHS Fashion Show

330 North Glenview Avenue Milwaukee WI 53213-3379

T! N E EV ship

W olar E h c s e N ise mal

To ra y for fe HS. e t WL mon a s t en stud

SAVE THE DATE Sunday, February 11, 2018 Registration information coming soon. Visit www.wlhs.org. For women of all ages.