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Pepin Area Schools
District Newsletter | June, 2024
Middle/High School Students of the Month
March - Respect
April - Responsible Decision Making
May - Perseverance/Grit
Congratulations to Maddysin Arnold and Milan Pesic - our MS/HS students of the month.
It is hard to believe that the school year is coming to a close. I believe we have had another outstanding year at Pepin Area Schools. I would like to thank the community, parents, staff, board of education and students for allowing me to work with all of them this school year and for the last two decades.
I would like to personally recognize our teachers, support staff, lead teachers, principals, and pupil services director for their work and dedication to our students, school, and community. I am truly blessed to have such an outstanding group of people to work with.
Congratulations to Cora Komisar and Lundyn Carlson. Cora is the class of 2024’s valedictorian and Lundyn is this year's salutatorian. I also want to recognize Evan Olson, Grant Hoffer, Jackson Riesgraf, Wallice Helmin, Jameson Riesgraf, Cole Arens, Bella Post, Demetrius Bergmann, Dexter Baader, Wyatt Schultz, John Juliot and Johnathan Panzo for their high academic performance in high school and as members of the 2024 Class of Distinction.
Pepin Area High received a rating of “Exceeds Expectations” or “Significantly Exceeds Expectations” three of this class’s four years in high school. These scores are related to the results of our student’s performance on the ACT and other state assessments.
We had a great spring concert this April. I want to thank our band and choir directors, Joan Draxler-Ruff and Amanda Rundquist, for their time and efforts. I want to commend Mrs. Draxler-Ruff for providing our students and community with a band program that all can be proud of. Mrs. Rundquist is working to rebuild the choir program. Additionally, congratulations to the following students who participated at state solo and ensemble:
Woodwind Choir-1 Rating
Clair Goeldner, Lundyn Carlson, Finley Noll, Kali Schalinske, Nicole Walker, Lorna Lisowski, Rachel Schruth, Wallice Helmin, Isabella Olson, Tori Creighton, Maddie Wick, Amelia Ingli, Kennedy Carlson, Reeden Bocksell, Savannah Danzinger, Bella Post, Keegan Stiehl, Madox Stewart, Hannah Wahlund, Chloe Reed, Max Carothers, Ashley Bartelt
Congratulations to our spring sports teams on successful seasons. Our softball team won the regional championship and qualified for sectional competition. Congratulations on a great senior season to Cora Komisar, Lundyn Carlson, Wallice Helmin and Bella Post. Thanks to our coaches, Matt Bellerive, Ali Murray and Jenohn Newcomb. Kennedy Carlson and Cora Komisar received an all conference award. Lundyn Carlson will be playing in the WFSCA Senior All Star game in Wisconsin Dells on June 11.
Baseball completed their season in regional play getting to the Regional semifinals. The team is young and will be returning a number of starters for next season. Look for Eagle Baseball to make a deep run in the playoffs next season. Coaches Tim Ruff, Tony Garner and Rob Stewart have kept their expectations high, and the young team has started to respond to the challenge. Evan Olson, Lawson Sterry and Grant Hoffer finished their high school careers in strong fashion this spring.
The track team had another wonderful season! Cole Arens and Justin Bergmann earned all conference honors. Cole Arens, Justin Bergmann and Johnathan Panzo also qualified for sectionals. Cole qualified for state and competed in LaCrosse on May 31 and June 1 in the 800 m run and 3200 m run. Cole placed 2nd in the 800 m run and 4th in the 3200 m run. Congratulations on a great senior season to Cole Arens and Jonathan Panzo. Coaches Andy Graff, Tracy Moline, Bart Gray and Kennedy Dinges have built a solid track program for our students.
I hope you were able to attend the Class of 2024’s graduation ceremony. I am very proud of the school we have here in Pepin, and these events are the culmination of a great deal of hard work on the parts of our students and the staff here at Pepin Area Schools. The board of education and administrative team wish the Class of 2024 great success in the future and hope that the skills imparted to them during the last fourteen years will have a positive impact on their lives professionally, and at the same time, personally.
Finally, I head into retirement with a heart full of gratitude and appreciation. It is an honor to acknowledge and thank everyone who has played a pivotal role in our school community over the past two decades. Firstly, I would like to extend my deepest thanks to the board. Your unwavering support and visionary leadership have been the cornerstone of our school's success. Your dedication to fostering an environment of excellence has not gone unnoticed, and I am deeply grateful for your guidance. To our incredible administrative team, your leadership has been nothing short of exemplary. Your tireless efforts to steer our school towards greatness, even in the face of challenges, have made a significant impact on our students and staff alike. Your commitment to excellence is truly inspiring. Our teaching staff deserves a special mention for their outstanding work with our students. Your passion, dedication, and hard work have not only educated but also inspired countless young minds. You are the heart of our school, and your impact on our students' lives is immeasurable. To the support staff, your contributions are invaluable. From ensuring our students are well-fed and our buildings are clean, to keeping our school district organized, your efforts often go unsung, but they are deeply appreciated. You are the backbone of our school, and we couldn't function without you.
A heartfelt thank you also goes out to those who provide additional support to students in need. Your compassion and dedication to helping every student succeed are what make our school a nurturing and inclusive place for all. Next, to the community, your support over the past two decades has been incredible. Your involvement and belief in our school's mission have helped us to thrive and grow. On a personal note, your support has meant the world to me and my family, and I am deeply grateful for the trust you have shown in me throughout the years. Together, we have built a strong, vibrant, and caring school community. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your unwavering support and dedication. Here's to many more years of success and growth for our school district and community. Thank you.
I want all to know that I have tremendous confidence in Craig Anderson and know he will continue to work with all parties involved in the success of the school district these last twenty years. Please continue to support his efforts as you have mine. He will bring a fresh perspective to our district and I hope you will support whatever changes he makes as you supported the changes I made when I came to this community. As I have told the board and Craig, Craig will not have a bigger cheerleader in the community than I. I know how tough this job can be, and there is only one superintendent at a time, and on July 1, that is Craig Anderson. Good luck, Craig!
Bruce Quinton
The end of another school year has come and gone in the blink of an eye! Reflecting on all the wonderful things our students have accomplished through their hard work and discipline fills me with immense pride and gratitude. From academic achievements to artistic performances and sports victories, our students have truly excelled. This success would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our dedicated teachers, paraprofessionals, cooks, custodians, and bus drivers. Together, with the strong backing of our parents and the community, we have created an environment that fosters growth and learning, leaving a lasting, positive impact on the lives of the children we serve.. We are so PROUD of our Students here at Pepin Elementary.
Have you ever wondered about your child’s report card and wondered about the ways you can speak to your child about their progress? Here are a few suggestions made by Reading Rockets.
Praise and Address: Start by congratulating your child on their successes, not only for high grades but also for improvements and efforts in challenging subjects. Discuss any areas needing improvement in a constructive manner.
Beyond the grades: Pay attention to the comments made by your child’s teacher. They can provide context for areas your child is exceeding in or needs more support. It can be a great starting point for discussion.
Evaluate Behavior and Effort : Report cards often include sections on behavior, effort, and participation. These are crucial for understanding your child's overall development and engagement in school.
Check Subject-Specific Performance: Review grades and comments for each subject. Identify strengths and weaknesses to know where your child may need extra help or where they are excelling.
Seek Clarification if Needed: If any part of the report card is unclear, don't hesitate to ask the teacher for an explanation. Understanding the report card fully is crucial for supporting your child's education
THANK YOU!
The Family Resource Council has sponsored many events that students and families have been able to participate in and enjoy this year. I want to thank this group for their ongoing support, efforts and involvement in this school community. Our students appreciate it, and so do I. A highlight this year for many was the Track and Field Day Picnic and the ice cream truck coupons for our students. If you want to be a part of this group, we would love to have more members! Please contact Emily Post.
My hope and wish for all Pepin students is that you have a wonderful summer filled with the things you LOVE to DO surrounded by the people you LOVE! See you in the Fall!
If ever I can be of assistance to you, please don’t hesitate to reach out. My email is jillr@pepin.k12.wi.us , or call 715-442-2391. I am happy to help.
Warmest Wishes,
Mrs. Riesgraf
Pepin Elementary Track & Field Day
written by Jarret Pearson, Elementary PE Teacher
On May 10, Pepin Elementary had their annual Track and Field Day. We couldn’t have asked for a better day to have this event this year! The turn out this year was amazing with friends and families coming to watch the students compete in all of the events. The students worked very hard on all of their events for about a month during PE time and sometimes even at recess. There were lots of smiles on the students' faces all day and I hope all of the students had a blast on a day they’ll never forget.
Thank you to all of the staff members and high school students for allowing this event to run smoothly year after year and again, a huge thank you to everyone coming out to cheer the students on.
Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation - Ag in the Classroom
Congratulations to 5th grader Madilyn Bredow for placing 1st at the Pepin/Buffalo county and district level for Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation - Ag in the Classroom essay contest.
This annual essay contest that challenges 4th and 5th grade students to research and write an informative essay. The contest prompt explores Wisconsin history, geography, and economics through the lens of Wisconsin Agriculture.
2024 Anchor Award
Since 1962, the Anchor Award has been presented to the junior class student with the highest cumulative grade point average. We expect the recipient of the anchor to be a positive role model for the rest of the school and to provide leadership during their senior year.
This year's Anchor Award went to Reeden Bocksell.
Stockholm Park Clean-up
I am thankful to have served another year as the School Counselor in our wonderful district. We have wonderful kids, supportive parents, and a top-notch staff! For more information on counseling office services offered throughout the past year, please view the link below. As always, please reach out to me if there is anything I can do to help support your student(s). Have a wonderful, safe summer!
Danni Noel, M.S.
Pepin High School Class of 2024 Scholarship Recipients
On May 15, Pepin High School hosted its yearly event to honor graduating seniors at the beautiful venue of Villa Bellezza. Generous donations from both the local and neighboring communities resulted in scholarships totaling $28,450 being awarded to deserving students.
Academic Excellence - Cora Komisar
Technical Excellence - Grant Hoffer
Lucille Burrichter - Cora Komisar & Lundyn Carlson
Perry Dental - Bella Post
Pepin Area Chamber of Commerce - Evan Olson, Shaylee Noel, Lundyn Carlson, Demetrius Bergmann, Wyatt Schultz
Pepin Booster Club - Wallice Helmin, Evan Olson, Lundyn Carlson
Pepin Education Association - Jameson Riesgraf, Evan Olson
Lucky Dog - Grant Hoffer, Demetrius Bergmann, Jameson Riesgraf, Wyatt Schultz, John Juliot, Shaylee Noel, Jackson Riesgraf, Evan Olson, Connor Nelson, Cora Komisar, Izabella Post, Wallice Helmin, Lundyn Carlson
Pepin Sportsmans Club - Demetrius Bergmann, Cora Komisar
Pepin Lions Club - Demetrius Bergmann, Cora Komisar, Wallice Helmin
Nelson VFW Post 6201 - Grant Hoffer
Pepin Memorial Fund - Rachel Schruth, Evan Olson
Forever Fit, LLC - Grant Hoffer
Masonic Lodge - Wyatt Schultz
Jerome & Judith Benson Memorial - Shaylee Noel
Pepin EMS - Demetrius Bergmann, Shaylee Noel
Bank of Alma - Cora Komisar, Lundyn Carlson
Red Cross - Lundyn Carlson, Wallice Helmin
JF Brennan - Lundyn Carlson
Pepin County ATV/UTV Club - Cora Komisar
Alcivia - Lundyn Carlson
Mayo Clinic - Lundyn Carlson
Congratulations Pepin High School Class of 2024
Graduation Day - May 18, 2024
June English Language Arts Updates
After a school year of working diligently with the K- 12 English Language Arts alignments to Wi State Standards and resource review. Pepin Area School ELA teachers have built consensus around the selection of Into Reading/ Into Literature for our new CORE Universal reading program.
As a group, the ELA staff piloted two programs, Open Up Expeditionary Learning and Houghton- Mifflin Harcourt’s Into Reading/Into Literature programs. Upon completion of the pilots for each, Theresa Stanley led a discussion reviewing each resource while comparing it against the necessary criteria as indicated by our vision, mission and belief about reading instruction. The resource is aligned to Wisconsin’s ACT 20 legislation and best fits the needs of our students.
Here is the Vision we share for all ELA learning In Pepin Area Schools:
The mission and vision of Pepin Area Schools is to encourage a community of learners in a positive atmosphere where learning is a life long process which develops responsible citizens who value knowledge.
Pepin elementary school teachers believe that effective teaching of English Language Arts curriculum utilizes a strong CORE program grounded in research-based instructional practices that are aligned to essential standards. Educators will utilize depth of knowledge practices that focus on critical thinking and problem-solving so that students develop perseverance to become college and career ready, life-long learners. We believe that effective literacy instruction
Starts with a strong foundational literacy skills for early learners
Is based on the science of reading research
Incorporates reading, writing, speaking, listening and communication skills
Utilizes the curriculum - instruction - assessment process to guide teaching and learning
Develops perseverance in order to grow intellectually through goal setting, effort and progress toward learning new skills.
Facilitates responsible behaviors that includes problem-solving, communication, and academic performance
HMH Into Reading® is a proven, research-based reading curriculum that cultivates strong readers, writers, and lifelong learners. The program has exemplary ratings from EdReports. Designed to create a welcoming and affirming classroom environment, Into Reading is dedicated to creating relevant, respectful, and meaningful content that reflects our diverse world.
This high quality resource provides the necessary structured literacy, ,essential reading skills , vocabulary, SEL, writer’s workshop, grammar and spelling . Our teachers noted that they felt this platform provided engaging, rigorous, and supportive lessons for all learners. There is a helpful assessment platform that teachers can easily utilize for looking at the strengths/ needs of their students that they can access quickly using the online tools..
I am happy to report that we will continue our collaboration with Theresa Stanley, Cesa 11 Consustlant to onboard and train staff using the new resource. Her guidance through this process has been extremely helpful as we are ensuring that the resource meets criteria but is also a best fit for our students’ here at Pepin Area School.
Summer training has been set for our staff, so we are ready to apply Into Reading with confidence and understanding at the beginning of the school year.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jill Riesgraf and Rachel Pommerening.
In compliance with the Wisconsin Immunization Law, students are required to be up to date on vaccinations. Typically, if the student is up to date, this means that before Kindergarten they will need to get 3 immunizations (Polio, MMR and Varicella). Certainly, this could look a bit different if they are behind schedule.
For those entering 7th grade, a Tdap (Tetanus/whooping cough) and Menactra (meningitis) is due.
For those entering 12th grade, a booster Menactra is due.
The Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (HPV) is not required for school, but recommended.
To be compliant with the school law, parents must provide their child’s school with proof of immunization or sign a waiver for religious or personal conviction reasons.
As always, if you have questions or would like me to look up your child’s immunization record, I am here to help. I ask that if possible, you get the needed vaccines (and submit proof to the school) over the summer so we are all set in the fall.
Please note: As of May 2024, the State of Wisconsin (DHS) is now mandating Meningitis vaccine for those entering 7th and 12th grade. This change was first brought forward last year, and then suspended in the legislature. School Nurses across Wisconsin are watching this closely, to see if it is again suspended or if it will stay a requirement for schools. My best advice at this time is either have your child vaccinated for meningitis (recommended), talk to your provider, or be prepared to sign a waiver in the fall if you want to opt your child out. Please see the additional document outlining the changes to the School Immunization requirements. As always, I am happy to discuss any questions you may have with this change.
Have a safe and healthy summer,
Katie Walsh, RN-BSN
School Nurse
katiew@pepin.k12.wi.us
Eagles Track and Field 2024
written by Bart Gray, Assistant Coach
The 2024 Boys and Girls Track Team started the season with 20 athletes working out in
the hallways and streets at both Alma and Pepin High Schools. There were 18 meets
originally scheduled, but due to adverse weather on several occasions 7 meets were
cancelled.
The season started with the Eagles competing in 3 indoor meets (4th was cancelled due
to snow), and saw many promising early season performances. Returning veteran
runners Finley Noll, Johnny Panzo and Cole Arens led the way and were instrumental in
helping the younger runners gain experience and confidence as the season progressed.
With such small numbers it was difficult for either the girls or boys teams to compete for
team titles at any of the scheduled meets, so the primary focus was on individual
improvement and creating as many Personal Best performances that were possible. By
the conclusion of the season there were many highlights: School Records: Finley Noll
set school records in both the Girls 100 meter hurdles (15.60) and the 300 meter
hurdles (46.04). Cole Arens set school records in the 800 meters (1:54.93) and the
3200 meters (9:33.18), Macy Stewart set a new school record in the girls 800 (2:28.98).
The girls 4 x 800 meter relay team of Finley Noll, Bella Bruilliard, Nessa Noll and Macy
Stewart also set a new school record (11:21.83).
At the Dairyland Conference meet: 1st place finishers: Finley Noll – 300 Hurdles, Justin
Bergmann – Pole Vault, Cole Arens – 800 meters, 1600 meters and 3200 meters.
The Eagles finished the season with 2 state qualifiers in 4 events. Finley Noll in the Girls
100 and 300 hurdles and Cole Arens in the 800 and 3200 meter runs. Finley finished in
11 th place in the 100 hurdles and had a podium performance in the 300 hurdles finishing
in 4 th place. Cole Arens had an outstanding state meet with podium performances:
finishing 3 rd in the 3200 meters and 2 nd in the 800 meters.
Team award winners for 2024: MVP Girls – Finley Noll, MVP Boys – Cole Arens, Most
Improved Girls – Joslyn Van Allen, Most Improved Boys – Johnny Panzo
Facts of interest for 2024: Finley Noll – undefeated for the season in the 300 hurdles
until a 2 nd place finish at the Sectional meet. Cole Arens undefeated for the season in
the 800 meters, the1600 meters and the 3200 meters until the state meet! Cole finishes
his high school career holding 6 individual event school records and 3 more as a
member of relay teams – 9 school records in all.
THANK YOU 2024 YEARBOOK SPONSORS!
2024-25 District Calendar
Proud sponsors of each Pepin Area Schools Newsletter
CONTACT US
Email: info@pepin.k12.wi.us
Website: www.pepin.k12.wi.us
Location: 510 Pine Street, Pepin, WI, USA
Phone: 715-442-2391
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pepinareaschoools