February Month in Review
February was packed with energy and excitement at KHS! Big successes in boys basketball, wrestling, bowling, and dance highlighted the month, along with great performances in "Lost Girl" and at SLURP. Hands-on learning took center stage in the Business Incubator class, the STEAM Girls mentoring event, and competitions in mock trial and forensics.
As we head into March, I want to thank our students, teachers, and coaches for their hard work in making these successes possible. Enjoy this month's newsletter!
GO GHOSTS!
-Aaron
On February 26, KHS hosted its annual SLURP event, a fundraiser supporting the fine arts. Guests enjoyed a variety of soups while listening to performances from our talented musicians and viewing artwork created by students in our art classes. It was a wonderful evening celebrating the creativity and talent of our students. Thank you to all who attended and contributed to making this event a success.
From February 6-8, the KHS Theatre Department presented "Lost Girl," a thought-provoking play following Wendy as she navigates life after leaving Neverland. She embarks on a journey to find Peter Pan and rediscover herself in a world that demands she grow up. Congratulations to our talented cast and crew for an outstanding production!
Six of our talented choir students were selected to perform with the WCDA All-State HS Treble and Bass Choirs at Lawrence University during the WCDA State Conference. These students sang under nationally recognized conductors and showcased their incredible talent: Emily Bolstad, Katelyn Hoelzel, Molly Paffenroth, Maxwell Ashauer, Jacob Hamilton, and Xane Schmidt.
Ms. Woller's People Skills for the Health Professional class teamed up with Mrs. Sanderfoot's students to practice communication, teamwork, and problem-solving—by making homemade slime and cake in a mug!
Also, Introduction to Education students wrote their own children’s books and took a field trip to Quinney Elementary to read to special education, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th-grade students.
KHS HOSA-Future Health Professionals teamed up with Tanner Kindergarten students for a Teddy Bear Clinic! Our future healthcare leaders taught young students about check-ups, healthy habits, and caring for others, all while treating their stuffed animals. A fun and educational day for everyone involved!
During the week of February 9, Sources of Strength and Ghost Crew planned an exciting Winter Ball Spirit Week. Students participated in engaging activities, including student-led Flex Sessions, a fun Family Feud competition, and an intense dodgeball tournament. The week concluded with a pep rally celebrating winter sports and activities, followed by the highly anticipated Winter Ball on Saturday night.
On February 11, the KHS STEAM Girls Club hosted 94 seventh-grade girls from River View for an afternoon of hands-on learning. Students participated in five engaging activities focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math. High school student mentors led the sessions, continuing the club’s mission to promote education and career opportunities in STEAM fields.
The Mock Trial Team made a strong showing at this year’s regional competition at Outagamie County Courthouse, earning a 3rd place medal! The defense team—Derrick Berken, Linnea Wolfe, Annabel Patschke, Emerson Hufschmid, Nora Boucher, and Alison VandeHey—achieved the highest single-round score of any team all day!
Additionally, Mock Trial members attended Dodge County Law Day, observing a pre-trial hearing, engaging with legal experts, and exploring career paths in the field.
This month’s Ghost Stories Podcast highlights the innovative Business Incubator class at KHS. Designed to equip students with entrepreneurial skills, this class goes beyond traditional learning by engaging students in real-world business development. Featuring insights from business teacher Rob VanderHeiden, local business mentor Sydney Hummell, and students Kyle Kress, Sam Weber, and Logan Arft, this episode explores how the class fosters adaptability, leadership, and teamwork. Listen here.
The Kaukauna Boys Basketball Team clinched the FVA Conference Championship outright by defeating Fond du Lac in the final regular-season game. The Ghosts dominated throughout the month, winning all of their games in February and heading into the playoffs on an impressive 14-game winning streak. Congratulations to the team and coaches on an outstanding season. Best of luck in the postseason!
KHS Wrestling added another milestone by earning its 20th consecutive FVA Championship and qualifying for Team State. In addition, six wrestlers secured spots at Individual State: Nick Jenkins, Andy DiPiazza, Peyton Lee, Kolin DeGroot, Liam Crook, and Nehemiah Lendobeja. Congratulations to these athletes and coaches on their continued success, and good luck at State!
The KHS Varsity Boys Bowling Team completed an undefeated 14-0 season to win the conference championship. This season was a total team effort, and they faced tough competition along the way. Congratulations to Devin DeBroux, Mitch Wurn, Braydon Dunne, Myles Moseng, Ayden Moseng, and Coach Chad DeBroux. Good luck at State!
Each week, KHS staff members nominate their colleagues for Staff of the Week honors. Here are February’s honorees:
Amber Ortega, Alternative Education Teacher, was praised for her patience, kindness, and dedication to her students. A colleague shared that she treats all students with respect and truly cares about their success. KHS is a better place with her here.
Tina Scott, School Psychologist, is known for her willingness to go above and beyond for students and staff. Her colleagues describe her as extraordinary, always ready to offer support and ensure the best outcomes for students.
Katie Lehrer, Family and Consumer Science Teacher, has been a strong advocate for students and an incredible resource for staff. She helped organize multiple informational sessions and actively supports hands-on learning experiences at KHS.
Dale Hallam, Alternative Education Teacher, has made a remarkable impact on students, especially those at risk of not graduating. His compassion, leadership, and commitment to helping students succeed set him apart, and his work with Theory, a therapy dog, brings joy to many at KHS.
Thank you to all our outstanding educators for their hard work and dedication!
On March 19 from 6:00-7:00 PM in the KHS Auditorium, Detective Lieutenant Mike Sewall from the Winnebago County Sheriff's Office will lead an essential discussion on Internet Safety. The presentation will cover topics such as social media risks, cyberbullying, online privacy, and ways to support teens in navigating the digital world. This free event is open to all KHS and River View Middle School families. Join us for this important conversation about keeping students safe online!