Pilot May 2026

WISCO PILOT Vol 32 no.4

Articles by and for students

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→ Journey to the past: Teacher’s past lives (p2-3) ⟶ Sports update (p4-5) ⟶ Engagement announcement! (p5) ⟶ Prism 2026 (p6-7) ⟶ Summer bucket list (p7) ⟶ Thank you Pilot seniors (p8-9) ⟶ Summer word search (P10)

May 2026

Glance into our teacher’s past lives next page!

JESUS, SAVIOR, PILOT ME

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Editors-in-Chief Anaya Britton Zuzanna Eft Natalie Than

Layout Editors: Zuzanna Eft Natalie Than Vivian Liu

Assistant Editors: Anghely Bastardo Nadia Alejandro

Advisors: Mrs. Becker & Ms. Grzanna

Vol 32 no.4

Articles by and for students

May 2026

Journey back in time: Teachers’ Past Lives

By Mariana Welsh

MRS. WENZEL

What was the job title? Editor/Journalist What was the job description/what did you do? I was the editor and lead political writer for a variety of news outlets before I became a teacher. I covered local, state, and national politics, school boards, and non-profits that interacted with governments. I also mentored journalism interns and set editorial policies at the news outlets I worked for.

Rate it out of 10 -- 10 equals “Amazing” and 1 means “No, never again.” 10/10

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What was your experience? How did it bring you into teaching? I did teach a middle school journalism class when I was an editor in Northern Wisconsin, so the bug to teach has been in me for a long time.

MR. ZACHARYASZ

What was the job title? Water Utility Operator What was the job description/what did you do? I worked for the village water department testing/repairing water valves underground, checking fire hydrants, climbing water towers, and providing general maintenance and care to the water system.

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What was your experience? How did it bring you into teaching? It was a joy to work in the water department, but the work was rather isolating.

It taught me hard work, but it showed me that the gifts God gave me involved working with people, not necessarily working with things or completing tasks.

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Rate it out of 10 -- 10 equals “Amazing” and 1 means “No, never again.” 6/10

MR. NICKELS

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Rate it out of 10 -- 10 equals “Amazing” and 1 means “No, never again.” 8/10

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What was the job description/what did you do? I developed and lead environmental education programs for kids and adults; monitored and recorded species lists for small mammals, birds, amphibians, crustaceans, snakes, and fish; planned and carried out land restoration projects such as controlled burns, tree planting, wetland and prairie seeding; and so much more!

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What was the job title? Director of Education and Research - Mequon Nature Preserve

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What was your experience? How did it bring you into teaching? I enjoyed my experience teaching and conducting science in a non-traditional setting, but it was time to return to the classroom. I missed making long-term connections with students and watching them grow in their knowledge and faith.

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Vol 32 no.4

Articles by and for students

May 2026

Journey back in time: Teachers’ Past Lives--Continued MR. CARLOVSKY

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What was the job title? Buffet attendant at Old Country Buffet What was the job description/what did you do? I cleaned tables, washed dishes, and made sure food was out on the buffet. Exciting stuff!

Rate it out of 10 -- 10 equals “Amazing” and 1 means “No, never again.”

3/10 What was your experience? How did it bring you into teaching?

Working at Old Country Buffet taught me about hard work and consistency. It was not glamorous work, but it showed me the importance of showing up, staying busy, and doing your job well. I would not say that job directly led me into teaching, but it helped build my work ethic and taught me humility. There will always be parts of a job or company that

no one wants to do, but are necessary for its success and someone needs to do them. Those lessons still help me as a teacher today.

What was the job title? Residential Mental Health Supervisor

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Rate it out of 10 -- 10 equals “Amazing” and 1 means “No, never again.”

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What was the job description/what did you do? I was in charge of a ward of females ages 8-17 who had committed some sort of crime. The judge would offer them jail time or residential rehabilitation. I was the supervisor of their daily activities as well as their math teacher. The girls lived there full time and were allowed visits home only on weekends if it was deemed appropriate. They stayed there until they were mentally stable to be let back into their community

What was your experience? How did it bring you into teaching? I loved working with the girls. I felt like I was really making a difference. They were removed from their families. So, even though I was a supervisor, I was also like their mom. This is where I was first introduced to kids who struggle with trauma and mental health. It drove me to continue to make a difference in the city of Milwaukee. After there I took a call to St. Marcus where I continued to serve kids in an underserved community in the classroom setting

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Vol 32 no.4

Articles by and for students

May 2026

SPORTS UPDATES Baseball

By Jonah Seeger

The baseball team is enjoying an excellent season, going 7–2 in conference and 9–4 overall thus far. With juniors Carter Fry (.512 AVG, 1.448 OPS) and Cooper Sievert (.450 AVG, 4 HR) leading the way offensively, as well as solid outings on the mound from juniors Ayden Schneble and Eli Dreier (combined 2.85 ERA), and senior Brayden Abromowski (29 K’s in 23 IP), the boys are looking to potentially win the Conference Championship and make it to State. “A team goal we have is to glorify God by using the gifts and talents he has given us to the best of our ability every day,” said assistant coach Mr. Joe Janke. “We know there will be challenges, just as in every aspect of life — but we also know that God is there with all of us, giving us the strength to overcome difficulties. As a team we strive to win a Conference Championship and make it to State, so every day we use the opportunities God gives us to put in the work to improve and make those goals a reality.” Should the boys make it, the WIAA State Tournament will be held at Neuroscience Group Field in Appleton on June 15–18.

Softball The Lady Vikes are putting another strong season together, going undefeated in conference and 10–3 overall thus far. Led by dominant outings on the mound from junior Sidney Schroeder (1.83 ERA, 83 K’s in 53⅔ IP), as well as power at the plate from juniors Zhana Guenther and Reese Grudzielanek (combined 11 HR, 48 RBI’s and 27 XBH), the team is in a great position heading into the home stretch of the year. The WIAA playoffs begin with Regionals on May 26–28, followed by Sectionals on June 2–4. The State Tournament will be held at Goodman Diamond at UW-Madison on June 10–13.

Girls Soccer The Lady Vikes are stringing together a strong season, going 2–1 in conference and 4–4 overall thus far. Senior Claire Paschke (6 G, 13 PTS) and sophomore Kayla Rosado (3 G, 7 PTS) have led the team offensively, with solid defense from freshman Lexie Siegel (33 SV) as the team’s goalie. With only a few games left in the season, head coach Pastor Heath Butler hopes to give some of the younger girls more playing time, as well as make sure everyone is healthy. “With just a couple weeks left in the regular season, we want to get everyone healthy and able to play so we can finish the season strong,” he said. “In addition, it will be important to try and get more playing time for some of the younger girls on the team.”

Golf The golf team is having a solid season, placing in the top 5 at 5 of their matches along with 1st place finishes in 3 of them. Led by senior Griffin Frey as well as juniors Rudy Kehoe and Gabe Stewartson (combined average of +5 for 9 holes), the boys are in a favorable position as the Conference and Regional Championships get closer. “The goal this year would be to win Conference and develop our skills in how we face and deal with adversity,” said head coach Mr. Marc Shambeau. “Additionally, we want to grow as Christian men.” The Conference Tournament will be held at Washington County Golf Course on May 19, with Regionals being held at Brown Deer Park on May 27.

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Vol 32 no.4

Articles by and for students

May 2026

Girls Track & Field Girls track & field is putting together a solid season so far, with 7 first place and 10 top 5 finishes in their meets.

Sophomore Reina Ebeling has been outstanding for the team, becoming just the 3rd girl in school history to break 5 minutes in the 1600-meter run (4:59.78). Her time also places her in the top 10 in the state for the 1600 this year.

Similar to the boys, the girls have also placed 1st in both the Indoor Championship and Conference Relays, and can clinch a season triple crown with a victory at the Outdoor Championship on May 19. “We are blessed with a lot of talent this year,” said head coach Mr. Jason Goede. “The ladies have put in a lot of hard work in the first two months of the season. We expect that hard work to result in a lot of success at the ending Conference Championships and into the postseason.” The WIAA playoffs begin later this month, with Regionals being held on the 26th and Sectionals on the 29. The State Championship will be held at Veterans Memorial Stadium in La Crosse on June 5–6.

Boys Track & Field Boys track & field is having an excellent season so far, placing in the top 5 in all but one of their meets along with 1st place finishes in 7 of them. Notably, junior Niyer Clayborn recently set a new state record in the 110-meter hurdles (13.69 s) at the Nathan Hale Mondo Invite. Niyer also owns the fastest time in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles in the state this year (38.01 s). With victories in both the Indoor Championship and Conference Relays, the boys are one title away from a season triple crown, which could be sealed with a 1st place finish at the Outdoor Championship on May 19. “As we proceed through an undefeated season that has seen the boys win the Indoor Conference Championship and the TFA Indoor State Meet, we are so excited to head into the championship part of our outdoor season,” said coach Mr. Eric Lueck. “We are poised to win the Outdoor Conference Meet and make a serious run for a Division 1 WIAA State title.” The WIAA playoffs begin later this month, with Regionals being held on May 26 and Sectionals on May 29. The State Championship will be held at Veterans Memorial Stadium in La Crosse on June 5–6.

GREUPINK & ROSENBOHM WEDDING!

By Zuzu Eft

Her fiance works for Caterpillar as a heavy equipment mechanic.

They are thankful that they share their faith and a strong foundation in Christ, and he just became a member of Living Word in Waukesha.

Ms. Greupink became engaged on March 27.

She and her fiance are tying the knot this June!

They are having a small wedding with immediate family on 6/27/26 with a larger reception during the summer of 2027.

He lives in Illinois, so they are awaiting God's plan and timing on where they will live as husband and wife.

They enjoy riding motorcycles, kayaking, and hiking together, as well as doing morning devotions and enjoying a cup of coffee.

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Vol 32 no.4

Articles by and for students

May 2026

Prism 2026

By Anaya Britton

In less than a month the entire music department managed to learn and perform all of the music for Prism 2026. It was not easy music either. Every piece of music was chosen to challenge the students; the pieces were extremely technical with surreal dynamics and choreography. All of this was prepared for our audiences to enjoy.

Prism is not just a concert; it is a representation of life. Between Honors Band playing a piece called Yuuki and the combined choir’s performance of Aladdin, there was much life represented. There were many songs that made the audience want to get up and dance and sing. The performers brought energy into the hearts of everyone. When students looked out into the crowd after finishing up a vivid performance, there was nothing but smiles. There were people of all ages that only came to see the concert.

Photos By Lauren Van Landeghem There could perhaps be a time machine somewhere, so that those who did not attend Prism could go back and attend it. Prism not only moved people to dance and sing, but it moved the students performing it to love music even more. The absolute gut wrenching feeling produced from singing, dancing, playing pans, blasting on the trombone, or pounding the drums can not be measured. The amount of love and joy for music spread across the entire gym.

The entire music department managed to steal the hearts of all. It took much effort, love, and joy.

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Vol 32 no.4

Articles by and for students

May 2026

SUMMER BUCKET LIST IDEAS

By Christopher Coleman Looking for a fun and affordable way to spend your summer 2026?

Pilot has just the places for you!

Are you somebody who enjoys nature and scenery? If so, take some time to appreciate the Mitchell Park Domes this summer! With general admission starting at $10, the Domes are a beautiful and calm place to slow down your action-filled summer! Also, check your local library. Several libraries have free passes available for checkout for the Domes and other places around Milwaukee like the Zoo, and the Harley Davidson Museum.

Artwork by Elizabeth Scherzberg

If you enjoy the scenery but don't want to break the bank, make your way to Lakeshore State Park and snap some cool pictures this summer! The state park has a nice breeze, cool skyline views, and even some paved trails great for a calm hiking day! Grant Park (South Milwaukee): Home to the famous Seven Bridges Trail is known for their bridges. You can walk down to the Lake Michigan shore.

Veterans Park on the lakefront downtown has a lot to do. You can rent paddleboats and kayaks on the lagoon, fly kites, or walk the 120-mile Oak Leaf Trail.

Not much of a nature person? Got a little pocket change after your summer job?

Let's do some window shopping! Take some time this summer to fill your wardrobe with pieces from trendy brands like Lululemon, Alo, and Kendra Scott all at The Corners in Brookfield! Starting in August, they have free summer movies. Bring a blanket and enjoy free family-friendly movie screenings on the large outdoor screen in Market Square. Bayshore mall also offers free movies.

Their website says “BAYSHORE’s Family Flicks Free Movies Series returns this summer on Wednesday nights. (June 10 – August 26, 2026, at 5:30pm) The movie hits The Big Screen in The Yard, the open central community space in the middle of Bayshore at 5:30pm. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets.”

Maybe you are a person who likes adventure, and just walking around does not interest you: Don’t worry there's something for you too! Eat some food, get on some fun rides, and meet your friends at the Wisconsin State Fair! Admission starts at $20 per person, but you can buy advance tickets for $15. The State Fair has it all!

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Vol 32 no.4

Articles by and for students

May 2026

PILOT SENIOR PILOT SENIOR SEND SEND OFF OF F

By Mariana Welsh

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NATALIE THAN How long have you been a member of Pilot?

2 years Where are you going for college OR what are your future plans?

I'm going to the University of Iowa for nursing.

What was your favorite Pilot article/project and why?

Probably the Prism article for the final issue last year. It was really colorful, and that was when I started to try editing new ideas into the newspaper.

What is your advice for the future Pilot group?

Always meet your deadline!!!!! And, do whatever you can to motivate the writers to turn their articles on time. Be nice, but also tough.

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How long have you been a member of Pilot?

2 years Where are you going for college OR what are your future plans?

I plan to go to Savannah College of Art and Design to study film and television.

What was your favorite Pilot article/project and why?

My favorite pilot project was putting the layout together for the Prism articles. There are always so many photos of talented students. I love curating a look for the pages about big events at school.

What is your advice for the future Pilot group?

I would recommend taking the time to plan out the whole group's work. It's so much easier to get work done if you have a timeline. If one member of the group runs behind, everyone runs behind.

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ANAYA BRITTON

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How long have you been a member of Pilot?

Four years (since freshman year).

Where are you going for college OR what are your future plans?

I am going to Marquette University majoring in Philosophy and minoring in Criminology and Law Studies.

What was your favorite Pilot article/project and why?

My favorite Pilot article was where I interviewed our past principal--Principal Leyrer.

What is your advice for the future Pilot group?

My advice is to always test your creative writing skills, and write as if you were writing for the Daily Bugle, and Spiderman was your photographer!

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Vol 32 no.4

Articles by and for students

May 2026

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How long have you been a member of Pilot?

2025-2026 school year!

Where are you going for college OR what are your future plans?

UWM I am in the honors college. I am going in for Biomed (premed track) and minoring in CEED (Community Engagement and Education).

What was your favorite Pilot article/project and why?

It was the one I wrote about the German Class Trip to Chicago. It was my first article for the paper, and I loved writing it!

What is your advice for the future Pilot group?

There is something very beautiful in writing about our school and the outside world. Enjoy this, and do it with a lot of love!

MASON WARE How long have you been a member of Pilot?

1 year Where are you going for college OR what are your future plans?

Tuskegee University What was your favorite Pilot article/project and why?

My ice skating article because I learned facts about Milwaukee I that I did not know.

What is your advice for the future Pilot group?

Finish rough drafts early, so that you have more time to edit.

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How long have you been a member of Pilot?

2 years (freshmen and senior year) Where are you going for college OR what are your future plans?

I’m going to Wisconsin Lutheran College for Pre-Law. What was your favorite Pilot article/project and why?

I liked writing a survey about fall drinks freshmen year because it was my first project!

What is your advice for the future Pilot group?

Keep thinking of creative ideas! It's fun to read and write articles about new topics.

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Summer Word Search

By Mary Peng

REFRESHING BUTTERFLY EARTHDAY SUNSHINE RAINBOW

FLOWERS BREEZY FRESH MARCH RAIN 10