Pictured are several of Wadena-Deer Creek’s new teachers and staff who were attending the fall workshop on Aug. 25, from left to right: Rachael Hammer, fourth-grade teacher; Deanna Lipinski, special education teacher; Kelsey Schmidt, business teacher; Alex Brochpahler, phy ed teacher; James Brewer, math teacher; Joan Goeden, third-grade teacher; Tori Ehlert, sixth-grade teacher; Kim Stafki, middle/high school nurse; and Stephanie Pulver, sixth-grade teacher. (Photo by Dana Pavek, WDC Schools)

Wadena-Deer Creek School District welcomes eight teachers to their Wolverine family as well as several new staff for the upcoming school year.

James Brewer will be teaching three hours of high school math at WDC and one hour at Verndale. Brewer has a master’s degree in mathematics from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, as well as graduate courses from the Computer Science and Statistics departments at North Dakota State University. Mr. Brewer is also an inventor with numerous patents and scientific publications to his name. He resides near Sebeka with his wife, Sheri, who also teaches high school math at Verndale.

Alex Brockpahler joins the physical education teaching team, where he will be teaching at both the elementary and middle/high school. He is a 2010 graduate of Sebeka High School and a 2015 graduate of Mayville (N.D.) State University. He will be coaching junior high football and will serve as assistant boys’ basketball coach at WDC.

Tori Ehlert is one of two new sixth-grade teachers at the middle/high school. Miss Ehlert is originally from Battle Lake and is a graduate of Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn. She has been employed at Fridley and Winona school districts, as well as Saint Mary’s University-Winona. She will also serve as WDC’s head girls’ basketball coach this winter.

Joan Goeden is a familiar face in the school district as she’s served as a substitute teacher for 14 years. Mrs. Goeden will now teach third grade at WDC Elementary. Prior to that, she taught second grade at St. Ann’s Catholic School in Wadena from 1982 to 2001. She is a graduate of the College of Saint Benedict’s in St. Joseph, Minn. She and her husband, Gregg, have two sons in college and reside west of Wadena.

Rachael Hammer is a native of Henning, where she grew up and graduated from Henning High School in 2009. She received her education degree from Minnesota State University-Moorhead. Her first teaching position was at Menahga Elementary School last year, where she taught Kindergarten. Miss Hammer will be teaching fourth grade and coaching junior high volleyball. She is engaged to Casey Johnson of Henning.

Deanna Lipinski will be a special education teacher at WDC High School. Mrs. Lipinski received her education degrees from University of Minnesota-Morris and Minnesota State University-Moorhead. She most recently taught at Henning Public Schools. She and her husband, Gerry, reside near Hewitt.

Stephanie (Bucholz) Pulver is returning to her high school alma mater as a sixth-grade teacher. The 2000 WDC High School graduate received her teaching degree from the University of Minnesota-Morris. Mrs. Pulver most recently was employed by the Detroit Lakes School District where she taught School Readiness and various Early Childhood Family Education classes. She and her husband, Mike, have five children.

Kelsey Schmidt is WDC High School’s new business teacher, replacing longtime teacher Nancy Peterson. Miss Schmidt is a 2012 graduate of LeSeuer High School and a graduate of Winona State University and Minnesota State University-Mankato. While attending MSU-Mankato, she co-taught several of the business education courses. In addition to her teaching duties at WDC, Miss Schmidt will serve as Business Professionals of America (BPA) advisor and as a junior high softball coach.

Other staff additions and changes include:

**Kim Stafki returns to the middle/high school as the school nurse. She previously served as WDC’s elementary school nurse. In addition, Jessica Galbrecht, RN, is replacing Erica Keppers as the school’s public health nurse.
**Jayne Johnson, Joan Nelson and Heidi Wolff are the new paraprofessionals at the middle/high school.
 **Lois Schulz will be a full-time social studies teacher at the high school. She previously taught special education and social studies at WDC.
 **Leonard Finch was promoted to head custodian at the elementary school, replacing longtime head custodian Kevin LaBarre.
 **Kyle Hoemberg joins the custodial staff at the middle/high school.
 **Nadine Wegscheid is now the head cook at the elementary, after the retirement of longtime head cook Arlis Kern.
 **Karlee Werner will be student-teaching in the English Department with Mike Brunsberg. A native of Perham, Werner is attending Minnesota State University-Moorhead.
 **Lindsey White will be student-teaching with the Physical Education Department at the elementary and high school. White is originally from Menahga and is attending Valley City (N.D.) State University.

WDC first-grader Bryce Hopp works on his alphabet letters during his first day in Mrs. Kellen’s class. The first-grader said he was having a great first day. (Photos by Dana Pavek, WDC Schools)

The Wadena-Deer Creek school campus was buzzing with activity today as WDC kicked off its school year for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade.

“It’s going fantastic,” said Tyler Church, grades 5-12 principal, who was outdoors on “recess duty” for fifth- and sixth-grade students. The students were soaking up plenty of sunshine and fresh air after a busy morning as the “newbies” in the middle/high school building. 

Fifth-grader Novia Schmidt said the toughest part of her morning was mastering the combination lock on her school locker. Sometimes, the combinations on the lockers can be a bit tricky for students. “But I’m getting the hang of it,” Schmidt said with a confident smile. The best part of her day, however, was “getting to know my new teachers,” she said.

Freshman Leah Spilman said she is excited to be back at school and dig into two of her classes – “Physical Science” with Mrs. Shrode and “Intro to Engineering & Design” with Mr. Shrode. Fellow freshman Eva Baron said she didn’t want summer to end, but was anxious to see her friends again.

At the elementary this morning, Elementary PTO members Kent Schmidt, Shanna Van Bruggen and Kate Waln offered Kindergarten parents a sweet roll, juice and a box of Kleenex during their “Boohoo/Yahoo Breakfast.”  This was the PTO’s way of easing the transition of parents letting their child go to Kindergarten. PTO member Kent Schmidt said they had a good turnout and not too many tears were shed, he joked.

In addition to welcoming students, Principal Louis Rutten kept a close eye on the new unloading and loading busing procedure this morning on Dayton Avenue. He said it helped that Wadena City Police Chief Naomi Plautz was there in the morning help direct parents and vehicles. The change was made to ensure the safety of students and to make it easier for the bus drivers to unload and load. 

Wadena-Deer Creek Schools will be in session this week on Wednesday, Sept. 2 and Thursday, Sept. 3, with no school on Friday, Set. 4 and Monday, Sept. 7. School will resume on Sept. 8 with WDC Preschool starting on the 8th as well. 

Enrollment numbers will be released within the week.

Engineering and Technology Teacher Mike Shrode talks to eighth-grade students on Sept. 1 about the Gateway to Technology curriculum. Students will design and engineer windmill fins and a robotic dragster.

NJPA made the announcement Thursday morning to Wadena-Deer Creek Elementary staff and administration that Wadena-Deer Creek Elementary was awarded funding to serve as an ENVoY certification and demonstration site. Pictured above at the unveiling of the ENVoY banner, from left, Tracy Fruechte, first-grade teacher; Louis Rutten, elementary principal; Paul Drange, NJPA Director of Regional Programs; Rynell Schock, NJPA Leader of Education Services; and Dan Savoie, third-grade teacher.  

Wadena-Deer Creek School District is looking to improve academic achievement by using Educational Non-Verbal Yardsticks or ENVoY.  Thirty-four WDC teachers and support staff have already received ENVoY training and over the next three years, more will learn these effective strategies and techniques that help prevent disruptions and manage discipline within the classroom.  

To help implement these techniques, National Joint Powers Alliance (NJPA) announced today (Sept. 3) that Wadena-Deer Creek Elementary was awarded funding to become an ENVoY Certification and Demonstration Site. The announcement was made this morning before school at a ceremony celebrating this prestigious status. 

NJPA will provide a funding award of about $75,000 to WDC Elementary to be used toward ENVoY training.

“Congratulations to your administration and staff for meeting the criteria required to receive this funding award.  Our congratulations to you as leaders in this work that is not being done anywhere else in Greater Minnesota,” said Rynell Schock, Leader of Education Services at NJPA.

WDC Elementary Principal Louis Rutten said the funding will assist with training teachers and support staff over the next three years or so.  

“It is quite exciting for us since it’ll provide teachers with training and coaching opportunities to learn classroom educational non-verbal strategies to help maximize time spent on curriculum.  The student/adult relationships within our school will become even better as we learn to become more proficient with the ENVoY strategies,” said Rutten.

The ENVoY approach is based on Michael Grinder’s best-selling book for educators, “ENVoY: Your Personal Guide to Classroom Success.” 

Following is a more detailed overview of ENVoY:
ENVoY is the name given to a system of non-verbal techniques used to improve classroom climate, enhance student productivity, and decrease the level of staff burnout. The non-verbal communication skills that staff members learn during ENVoY training will positively influence the single most powerful leverage point in education: the teacher/student relationship. 

Teachers who utilize the full range of nonverbal management skills are able to reinforce consistent and fair parameters while preserving their relationships with each student, regardless of unique learning styles or cultural backgrounds. 

Teachers who implement the ENVoY system gain an average of an hour more curriculum time per week. ENVoY is a vehicle to shift educators from seeing themselves as those in power to “instruments of influence.”  

Christopher Ruth, 4, enjoys making shapes out of play dough on his first day of preschool at Wadena-Deer Creek.

Learning how to build a star out of shapes, to learning how to take turns talking at “Circle Time,” WDC preschoolers were busy little Wolverines on their first day of school on Sept. 8. 

“We had a great first day,” said WDC Preschool Coordinator Patti Isaacson, who’s in her 25th year of teaching preschool at Wadena-Deer Creek.

In the three preschool classrooms, the 3- and 4-year-old youngsters make new friends, discover new toys, learn how to listen to their teachers and paras, get accustom to a new routine, and learn about shapes, counting, colors, just to name a few. More importantly though, they also adjust to being away from mom and dad. However, that separation might be tougher on the parents!

As of today, 103 preschoolers are enrolled at Wadena-Deer Creek Preschool, which is located in the southwest wing of the elementary school. In addition to Mrs. Isaacson, the preschool teaching team includes Alicia Johnson, who is in her 10th year, and Jan Bernu, who is in her second year. 

Wadena-Deer Creek Preschool has earned a Four-Star Parent Aware rating. To earn a Four-Star Rating, which is the highest rating, WDC's preschool program excels in the use of most of the practices that best prepare children for kindergarten. 

"It confirms that we have staff and programming of high quality and it should be comforting to parents who seek a caring and nurturing preschool environment for their child’s first school experience,” said Louis Rutten. WDC Elementary Principal.
 

WDC Preschool Teacher Patti Isaacson teaches preschoolers about colors with a fun song about birds. 

Angel Erickson, 4, has fun putting colorful pegs in number boards in Alicia Johnson's preschool class today. (Photos by Dana Pavek, WDC Schools)
 

The Wadena-Deer Creek football program, along with the Randy Shaver Cancer Research and Community Fund, have teamed up to host its second annual  “Tackle Cancer” night, Sept. 11 when the WDC Wolverines hosts the Osakis Silverstreaks. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. at WDC Football Field. 

WDC students will have a table set up near the front gate to receive donations in the fight against cancer. Tackle Cancer eye blacks will be sold for a suggested donation of $2 or more. 

“We are proud to partner once again with Randy Shaver and the Minnesota Football Coaches Association in hosting a Tackle Cancer game,” said Norm Gallant, WDC Activities Director. “Many people have been affected by cancer in one way or another, and this is our chance to help fund cancer research and find a cure for cancer.” 

In addition, WDC is organizing a “Hat Day” on Sept. 11, where students and staff can donate a $1 to wear their favorite hat during the school day. All those donations will go toward the Tackle Cancer fundraiser as well.

Fans attending the Wolverine’s game are encouraged to donate. Minnesota high school and college football programs have raised more than $228,000 to help find a cure for cancer. For more information, go to randyshavercancerfund.org.

If you look up the definition of Superhero, the word is defined as a “fictional character with superhuman powers." Superheroes accomplish the extraordinary feat of turning terrible, sometimes hopeless situations into great acts of heroism through their service, passion, dedication and, of course, their super-human abilities! Teachers may not wear a cape, but they certainly have Superhero abilities!

Teachers are able to take hopeless situations and turn them into amazing opportunities! Where there are students failing, they invest their time to help them succeed. Teachers see the potential where others see dashed hopes and dreams. Sometimes the results of their work come fast, as they see the light bulb in a child’s mind turn on. Other times, it may take years to see the fruits of their labor when a high school senior, who used to be in their first-grade class, walks across the gym to receive their diploma at graduation. 

Teachers sacrifice many things for the benefit of their students. Many of them work long hours, use their own resources for classroom supplies, and even risk looking crazy by coming up with songs, dances and rhymes to help their students remember facts. They are constantly preparing new lessons, decorating their classrooms, and grading homework from many students. Think your teacher is resting during their summer vacation? Think again! The best teachers are students themselves, taking classes or teaching other teachers about classroom best practices.

To be a great teacher, you have to have many superpowers! The best teachers are more than just educators. The best teachers are counselors, advocates, cheerleaders, sergeants and the list goes on and on. They can stop time by talking about the most exciting things or telling stories of when they were a kid and the lessons they've learned.  Teachers can teach you how to fly, because of that feeling you get after you've learned something that you never thought you could do! They often need to be many things to many people at the same time, but they can magically make every student feel special and important.

For those many reasons, teachers are truly Superheroes! There’s just one difference though -- they’re real and they exist in the lives of children right here at Wadena-Deer Creek Public Schools!

Let's introduce those Superheroes to you, as we kick off "WDC Teachers are Superheroes" series today! We'll alternate our Superhero Teachers between the two schools each week. We hope you enjoy getting to know our amazing teachers!
 

Jan Bernu ... Preschool Teacher

How many years have you been teaching at WDC? 
“This is my second year teaching 3-year-old preschool classes. I have been a paraprofessional at WDC for 18 years – most of those years have been one-on-one with special-needs children.”

Why did you choose to be working at a school?
“I love working with children! I have an aunt who did child care in her home while I was growing up and that was what first got me started thinking about working with children. Salli Mahlen, my phy ed teacher, art teacher and gymnastics coach in Verndale, was also an inspiration to me.”

What do you enjoy most about teaching and why?
I enjoy watching the growth and development of the children as they learn new skills. The children make me laugh every day.”

Why do you think WDC Schools is a great place to teach?
“We have great students and staff.”

Tell us a little about yourself.
“My husband and I have five children. My oldest four are now grown and on their own. We have an 11-year-old still at home. We also have one grandchild. We have one dog and an assortment of cats – all outside!”

Any pastimes or hobbies?
“I love to read. But my newest favorite hobby is being Grandma to granddaughter Brooklyn and at my two daughters’ day cares. I have also done PCA (personal care assistant) work with a very special boy for the past nine years. While some may consider that another job, to me it is a favorite hobby.”
 

Holly Becker ... Math Teacher

How many years have you been teaching at WDC? 
“This is my 11th year teaching high school mathematics in the WDC School District. I started my teaching career in Maddock, North Dakota, where I taught for two years.  I currently teach Algebra 1 Basic, Algebra 2 Basic, Algebra 2 and Algebra 3 at WDC.”

Why did you choose to be a teacher?
“I actually went to college for Real Estate and changed my major three times before ending up with a degree in Math Education.  None of the other fields felt like ‘me.’  When I graduated with a four-year degree in Mathematics and not sure what to do with my degree, a small school in North Dakota offered me a job teaching 7-12 grade math. I accepted the position and finished the education requirements during my first year of teaching.  At the end of my first year of being a math teacher, I knew this was the career for me and I graduated again with a degree in Mathematics Education.”

What do you enjoy most about teaching and why?
“I love teaching!  I honestly cannot imagine myself doing anything else.  I take pride in providing students with a fun and safe learning environment.  I strive to make each student not only learn in my classroom but to have fun and feel free to be themselves.  I can honestly tell you that I have fun teaching Algebra every single day and I hope the students do to.”

Why do you think WDC Schools is a great place to teach?
“WDC offers so much to our students.  We have many extracurricular activities for students to be involved in (the list takes up multiple pages in our handbook).  We provide students with a wide range of elective courses, everything from music, art, cooking, quilting, phy ed options and, of course, elective opportunities in all of our core subject areas.  WDC provides students with the opportunity to take college courses while attending high school; these courses are free to our students and if they take full advantage of this opportunity, they can enter college already as a sophomore.  Every WDC student has technology at his/her fingertips, as each student has an iPad to use for the school year.  The staff at WDC truly cares about our students, we want to see them succeed!”  

 Tell us a little about yourself.
“I have been married to my amazing husband, Trent, for eight years.  We have a beautiful daughter, Braelyn, age 5, who is in Kindergarten here at WDC.  We have also had the privilege of hosting two foreign exchange students.  We also have a pug puppy named Peanut Butter.”

Any pastimes or hobbies?
“When I am not at work, I enjoy spending time with my family, working out, shopping and drinking coffee.”

Next WDC Superhero Teacher Profiles: Patty Berg, 4th Grade Teacher, and James Brewer, Math Teacher

Wadena-Deer Creek High School welcomes 16 foreign exchange students for 2015-16 school year (sitting, from left to right): Yin Zhang (China), Agnes Pinneiro E. Silva (Brazil), Nora Burlon (Germany), Myriam Montero Bellido (Spain) and Natalie Schween (Germany); standing, from left: Ru-Chun Lai (Taiwan), Ana Clara Arana Camis (Brazil), Gonzalo Giner (Spain), Mara Zschommier (Germany), Javier Parreno Mota (Spain), Vaclav Kalina (Czech Republic), Miguel Lopez Perez (Spain), Jingrui Zhang (China), Guillherme Vallone Takakuwa (Brazil) and Coraline Donnay (Belgium). Not pictured: Lola Jean Gilroy (Australia). Photo by Dana Pavek, WDC Schools

Wadena-Deer Creek High School recently welcomed 16 foreign-exchange students from eight countries around the globe. They come from Australia, Belgium, the Czech Republic, and many other countries and WDC is excited to be hosting these students who bring a mix of diversity and culture to its school community.

The foreign-exchange students are staying with families around the school district. Each student is sponsored through an international organization, such as Nacel Open Door, International Student Exchange (ISE), and Aspect Foundation Student Exchange. They are listed here with their host family:

• Lola Jean Gilroy (Australia), Taggart family
• Ana Clara Arana Camis (Brazil), Perrella family
• Agnes Pinneiro E. Silva (Brazil), Stewart family
• Myriam Montero Bellido (Spain), Schroeder family
• Yin Zhang (China), Schroeder family
• Jingrui Zhang (China), Seibert family
• Mara Zschommier (Germany), Grieme family
• Ru-Chun Lai (Taiwan), Havnes family
• Gonzalo Giner (Spain), Dunker family
• Miguel Lopez Perez (Spain), Hanson family
• Javier Parreno Mota (Spain), Riddle family
• Nora Burlon (Germany), Wood family
• Coraline Donnay (Belgium), Taggart family
• Vaclav Kalina (Czech Republic), Bullock family
• Guillherme Vallone Takakuwa (Brazil), Riddle family
• Natalie Schween (Germany), Havnes family

At a Welcome-to-WDC luncheon held Sept. 11, foreign-exchange students munched on American favorites -- pizza and pop -- and listened to Student Council and Friends of Rachel (Anti-Bullying) Club students talk about school life at WDC and one of the school's most anticipated event, Homecoming Week.  WDC High School Counselor Toni Kraska, WDC Middle/High School Principal Tyler Church and Superintendent Lee Westrum were also on hand for the luncheon. 

Despite the little surprises that come along with experiencing an American school, such as school lunch and a casual dress code, the foreign-exchange students are excited for the upcoming school year, when they will have the opportunity to meet new people, polish their English fluency and learn about the United States, Minnesota and WDC. 

WDC Principal Church offered the foreign-exchange students some advice at the luncheon. He encouraged the students to get involved during their time here at WDC. “Plan to be involved in an activity, whether it’s choir, band, theater or a sport, it’s an excellent way to meet people and make those close connections,” he told students.

According to Kraska, hosting a foreign-exchange program at WDC also helps to increase the foreign-exchange student's understanding of our culture, as well as improving their language skills. “WDC students also benefit from learning about diversity, as well as getting to know international students and their cultures. It broadens their social horizons too,” said Kraska.

Over the next several weeks, WDC will be featuring each foreign-exchange student in an article, so as to welcome them to the school and the community.
 

WDC seventh-graders participate in the “Trolley” activity, where each student must have one foot on each side of the trolley. If one person touches the ground or “swamp of poisonous yogurt,” the whole group must start over. The team-building activity was part of a retreat held Sept. 15 at Inspiration Point and Retreat Center near Clitherall. (Photo by Toni Kraska, WDC Schools)

Wadena-Deer Creek seventh-graders participated in a day-long outdoor retreat Sept. 15 that focused on teamwork skills and building friendships.

WDC High School Counselor Toni Kraska said the annual retreat, which was held at Inspiration Point Retreat Center near Clitherall, helps seventh-graders learn about three important skills -- trust, communication and cooperation. 

“By participating in this unique experience, it is the hope that, as a seventh-grade class, they will feel a sense of cohesiveness; belongingness to the school community; and have the opportunity to experience positive leadership with one another,” said Kraska, who coordinates the trip.

Seventy-seven 7th-graders participated along with senior and junior students who served as peer mentors.  

WDC seventh-graders Kylie Matthews, 13, and Teagan Roberts, 12, thought the outdoor retreat was an excellent learning experience. 

“It was awesome!” said Matthews, who enjoyed being off campus with her classmates. She admits to thinking the retreat would be just a typical field trip, but the day ended up exceeding her expectations. “We did all sorts of activities that focused on trust-building and friendships with others,” said Matthews.

For Roberts, it was learning about working together as a unit and the challenging team exercises that she enjoyed. “It was fun! The activities were difficult, but we learned if we worked together, it was a lot easier,” Roberts said. 

Twenty-one junior and senior students served as peer mentors and go on the retreat with the seventh-grade students as a way to connect with the younger students. 

Senior peer mentors included: Thomas Brekke, Kendra Evans, Wyatt Fitzsimmons, Mikena Formanek, Jacob Johnson, Jessica Langer, Kelsie Pierce, Austin Sutherland, Brianna Taggart and Hannah Vorderbruggen.

Juniors peer mentors were: Ashley Lehmkuhl, Andrew McCullough, Kirsten Peterson, Liz Peterson, Jess Rondestvedt, Gabi Ross, Blaine Snyder, Konnor Stueve, Tyler Wheeler and McKayla Woods.

Teachers and staff who accompanied the students, as well as participated included: Mrs. Kraska; Alex Brockpahler, phy ed teacher; Chelsa Golberg, math teacher; Todd Hale, social studies teacher; and Marc Reynolds, special education teacher.

WDC seventh-grader Mona’e Payton is supported by classmates while she stands on a swinging log. The outdoor activity was one of several that focused on teamwork and were part of a day-long retreat at Inspiration Point. (Photo by Toni Kraska, WDC Schools) 

Wadena-Deer Creek High School announces the 2015 Homecoming candidates, back row, from left: Madison Barthel, Athea Perez, Jessica Langer, Hannah Vorderbruggen and Lauren Soroko; front row, from left: Keon Woo “Jimmy” Kim, Thomas Brekke, Austin Sutherland, Jarrett Pettit and Wyatt Fitzsimmons. (Photo by Dana Pavek, WDC Schools)

Selected by their senior classmates, the 2015 Wadena-Deer Creek Homecoming candidates were announced the morning! 

The queen candidates are: Madison Barthel, Jessica Langer, Athea Perez, Lauren Soroko and Hannah Vorderbruggen. The king candidates are: Thomas Brekke, Wyatt Fitzsimmons, Keon Woo “Jimmy” Kim, Jarrett Pettit and Austin Sutherland. 

An array of activities -- organized by WDC's student councils -- will take place during the week of Sept. 28 to Oct. 2, including dress-up days for students and staff, PowderPuff football, pep fests, wagon parade and more! Friday will feature the Coronation at 10:15 am in the Middle/High School Gym. The public is invited to attend this ceremony. On Friday afternoon, the Homecoming “Wagon” Parade will begin at 2 p.m. This is a new event this year. Due to road construction downtown, the traditional parade had to be cancelled, but a wagon train in the WDC Elementary hallways will be a fun, spirited event for students! Rain or shine, this parade will go on! 

This year’s Homecoming theme is “Corral the Cardinals!” Show your Wolverine spirit by wearing Blue and Gold when the football team hosts Staples-Motley at 7 p.m. at the WDC High School football field.

Keep updated on Homecoming Week where there will be daily posts. Go to WDC’s website at www.wdc2155.k12.mn.us or “Like us” at WDC’s Facebook page at Wadena-Deer Creek Public Schools. 

Homecoming 2015 Schedule- “Corral the Cardinals!” 

Monday, Sept 28               ‘Merica Monday - Wear red, white and blue.

                                                * 9-12 Pepfest – 8:45 to 10am.   

                                                * 5-8 Pepfest – 2:08 to 3pm. 

Tuesday, Sept. 29             Time Warp Tuesday – Dress up from any era.

                                                * Door Decorating Contest - “Corral the Cardinals”       

                                                * JV and Varsity Tennis Triangular at WDC

                                                * Cross Country at Deer River, 4:30pm

                                                * JH Volleyball at Perham, 4:30pm

                                                * JH Football vs Staples-Motley at WDC, 4:30pm                                        

Wednesday, Sept 30        Color Day

                                                Seniors: Black                      8:  Orange

                                                Juniors:  Blue                        7:  Green       

                                                Sophomores: Red                6:  Purple

                                                Freshmen:  Yellow               5:  Pink

                                                Staff:  Camo

                                                * Grades 5-12 Finish Door Decorating

                                                * Grades 9-12 Judging takes place after 1st hour

                                                * Grades 5-8 Powderpuff Kickball (Girls Only)  11:23-12:43    (between lunches)

                                                *Grades 9-12 Powderpuff Football                            

Thursday, Oct 1                 Western Wear Day

                                                * Grades 9-12 students vote for King/Queen during 1st hour

                                                * 11:00-1:00 Elementary school autograph session during recess.  This includes                                                                                   Cheerleaders, Fall Sport Captains and Royalty.  These people will eat lunch at                                                                                      the elementary school with students from 12:35-1pm.

                                                * Elementary Pep Fest - 1:30-2:30pm

                                                * Grades 5-8 Lunch Room Games 

                                                * JV and Varsity Tennis vs Perham at WDC, 4pm

                                                * JH, C, JV and Varsity Volleyball vs. Pillager at WDC.  

                                                * JH at 4:30, C at 5:00, JV at 6:00 and Varsity to follow

                                                * JH Football vs. Long Prairie-Grey Eagle at WDC, 4:30pm

Friday, Oct 2                        Spirit Day – Wear your Blue and Gold!

                                                * Coronation, 10:15am in Gym. Public invited.

                                                * Grades 5-8 WDC Spirit T-shirt contest

                                                * NEW! Wagon Parade at elementary school, 2pm 

                                                * Football vs. Staples-Motley at 7pm  

Elementary Theme Days:

Mon., Sept. 28       ‘Merica Monday

Tues., Sept. 29       Silly Sock/Crazy Hair Day

Wed., Sept. 30        Western Wednesday

Thurs., Oct. 1           Color Day: Preschool: Orange; Kindergarten: Blue; 1st grade: Yellow; 2nd grade: Red; 3rd grade: Green; 4th grade: Purple; and Staff: Camo                 

Friday, Oct. 2            Blue & Gold Day 

Thank you, Grades 9-12 and Grades 5-8 Student Councils for organizing Homecoming Week!                                

New and current Wadena-Deer Creek NHS students attending the induction ceremony, Sept. 28 at WDC Middle/High School included, back from left: Mikena Formanek, Kelsie Pierce, Rylie Langer, Jessica Langer, Kirsten Peterson, Nicole Miller, Lauren Soroko and Kassandra Peterson; middle, from left: Kendra Evans, Briana Malone, Konner Stueve, Austin Sutherland, Tyler Wheeler, Jarrett Pettit, Wyatt Fitzsimmons and Andrew McCullough; front, from left: Ashley Lehmkuhl, Taylor Dirks, Hannah Vorderbruggen, Jessalyn Rondestvedt, Gabrielle Ross, McKayla Woods and Kayla Peters. Not pictured: Beth Schmitz. (Photo by Dawn Hamelau, WDC Schools)

Wadena-Deer Creek High School’s National Honor Society (NHS) held its induction ceremony and reception last night where 11 new students were inducted. 

Those new inductees, who are all juniors, included: Taylor Dirks, Ashley Lehmkuhl, Andrew McCullough, Nicole Miller, Kayla Peters, Kirsten Peterson, Jessalyn Rondestvedt, Gabrielle Ross, Konnor Stueve, Tyler Wheeler and McKayla Woods. 

The ceremony featured a traditional candle-lighting ceremony and a formal program. NHS seniors Rylie Langer, Hannah Vorderbruggen, Jarrett Pettit and Lauren Soroko spoke on the four pillars of NHS — scholarship, leadership, service and character.  

Principal Tyler Church presented awards to the new inductees and also shared his congratulations to the students and their families. 

“The students you have standing in front of you tonight epitomize what great students we have at Wadena-Deer Creek.  The best attribute of this group is the character they demonstrate each and every day.  They treat others the right way and make Wadena-Deer Creek a great place to be,” Church said. 

According to Dawn Hamelau, who is in her second year as NHS advisor, the Wadena-Deer Creek NHS chapter is very selective when choosing which students are inducted into the organization. 

“In order to qualify for membership, a student must be a junior or senior who embodies the qualities of character, leadership, scholarship and service.  Students must have a GPA of 3.5 and demonstrate good attendance, involvement in co-curricular activities, and leadership experience,” Hamelau said.

Students must also average 50 or more verified hours of community service for each year of high school and submit three letters of recommendation.  Applications for membership are reviewed by a panel of WDC teachers and administrators. 

New members will join returning senior members Kendra Evans, Wyatt Fitzsimmons, Mikena Formanek, Jessica Langer, Rylie Langer, Briana Malone, Kassandra Peterson, Jarrett Pettit, Kelsie Pierce, Beth Schmitz, Lauren Soroko, Austin Sutherland and Hannah Vorderbruggen to complete a wide variety of community-service projects.  Yearly projects that are led and organized by NHS members include three blood drives, a charity phone-a-thon, Day of Caring, Adopt-A-Highway, and a global-service project as well as a variety of other community service projects.  

“I look forward to working with these students as they contribute their time and talents to the members of the Wadena-Deer Creek community,” said Hamelau.

Wadena-Deer Creek FCCLA members at the region conference, from left to right: Cindi Koll, co-advisor; Emma Mehl, Issac Breitling, Jessica Langer, Victoria Heikkila, Frannie Bakken, Kiersten Vogt, Morgan Grangruth, Paige Barthel, Casey Bounds, Hayley Maloney, Jamie Gilje, Caitlin Savage, Hope Norenberg, Angela LeComte, LaDonna Norenberg, co-advisor.

One hundred thirty-five Family, Career, and Community (FCCLA) members attended the region conference held at Wadena Memorial Auditorium. 

WDC Supt. Lee Westrum gives the welcome at the FCCLA Region 6 Conference in Wadena.

The opening session of the conference was called to order by Region 6 FCCLA President Peyton Deal from Wheaton High School.  WDC Supt. Lee Westrum welcomed the delegates to Wadena-Deer Creek Public School and encouraged them to make the most of the opportunities of FCCLA. 

WDC  FCCLAer, Jessica Langer, this year’s Region treasurer, participated in the Opening Session.  State officers, Hope Norenberg, Andrew Bachman and McKenna Larson assisted the region officers in introducing this year’s state theme, "Agents of Change."

The highlight of the meeting was high-energy keynote speaker, Patrick Kasper from Fargo, N.D.  He encouraged the delegates to be passionate about their interests and to work at making their actions meaningful. 

Members got to participate in round-table sessions on several state and national FCCLA projects.  Jessica Langer presented a round table workshop on Families Acting for Traffic Safety.  Hope Norenberg presented information on communicating effectively when working on FCCLA projects.

Region 6 FCCLAers contributed $150 plus several food items to the Wadena Food Shelf as a service to help reduce hunger.

The 15 WDC members who attended the conference gained many project ideas to use in this upcoming school year. 

FCCLA is a dynamic and effective student organization that helps young men and women become leaders and addresses important personal, family, work and social issues through career and technical family and consumer sciences education.

FCCLA Region 6 Officers:  Peyton Deal, Skyler Siegle, Maria Ricks, Jessica Langer and Gracie Vatthauer.

Mike Brunsberg ... English Teache

How many years have you been teaching English at WDC High School? 
"This is my 16th year at WDC. I also taught at Bertha-Hewitt and Plummer/Red Lake Falls."

Why did you want to be an English teacher? Anyone influence you?
"When I considered pursuing an education degree (after a year of pre-pharmacy!), I originally started in social studies.  That almost worked out—except I ran out of time to get coaching certification before graduation (which was a must to be competitive for a social studies position). So, I switched to an English emphasis—mostly out of fondness for the writing associated with those courses. My dad likes to write, so I blame him!"

In your opinion, has social media, emails and text messaging affected the way students write? Are students still learning how to write a handwritten letter?
"We use paper/pencil nearly every day in high school language arts classes—not usually for handwritten letters, though. I’m a fan of the handwritten letter, so I’ll do my best to save it! As far as the impact of digital norms, I haven’t noticed much direct influence on academic student writing other than quicker access to information and the occasional emoji. Students seem to be able to compartmentalize the different modes of writing in their life. Many people assume that 'txt' abbreviations seep into and taint academic writing, but that’s not really been the case."  

Why do you think WDC is a great school?
"Minnesota has a lot of great public schools, including WDC. Things are still based on the common sense value of 'Let’s do what’s best for kids,' and for the most part, the kids shine. Short answer: the students. I like my colleagues too—they make work life comfortable and fun." 

Tell us a little about yourself?
"In addition to my career, I see myself mainly as a husband and dad, so I like to do family things."

Any pastimes or hobbies?
"Music and sports…the typical distractions, as Mark Twain might have said."

Can you share with us a favorite book?
"I like books about the Beatles. Their story never tires me, and new books about the Beatles are continually published, so I’m not the only one."
 

Mary Ellenson ... Music Teacher

How many years have you been teaching music at WDC Elementary?
"This is my second year at WDC Elementary!  Previously, I taught at the Henning Public School for 13 years. Prior to my teaching career, I was a self-employed music therapist."

Why did you want to be a music teacher? Anyone influence you?
"I initially received my BA in music education but also earned a second degree in music therapy. I love people! They are my passion. Music speaks to everyone so becoming a music teacher/therapist was a perfect way to make a career out of what I love -- people and music.  My favorite elementary music teacher, Mrs. Spicer, influenced me in such a positive way. She always brought a smile to the classroom and organized some of the best productions. I teach music so students will have more love, more compassion, more gentleness, more good."

In your opinion, why is music such an important subject for students to learn?
"Music is so important to a school's curriculum because it unites all the subjects in one discipline and uses them to create emotion which is the root to humanism."   

Why do you think WDC is a great school?
I believe that WDC is a great school because people are encouraged to be themselves. It's a wonderfully diverse community that supports each other from the students, staff and administration."  

Tell us a little about yourself?
I live in the country with my husband, Mark, and our Black Lab, Chief.  We are a very close family with four wonderful children/children-in-laws and a 5-year-old grandson. One of my favorite weekends is spent with my family in Duluth when many of us participate in the Grandma's Marathon weekend."

Any pastimes or hobbies?
"I love anything outdoors! My husband and I spend many hours gardening, harvesting and canning. I'm close to canning 100 quarts of dill pickles this year! We go for daily walks no matter what the temperature is and in the winter, I enjoy cross-country skiing."

What is your favorite musical?
"My favorites are 'Guys and Dolls' and 'Hello, Dolly!' as I have very fond memories of working with the Henning students, including my two daughters, to produce these two musicals." 
 

Wadena-Deer Creek National Honor Society is asking the school and community help fill shoeboxes filled with goodies for less-fortunate children in foreign countries.

NHS senior students Hannah Vorderbruggen and Kendra Evans are organizing this global project called "Operation Christmast Child," which is an organization that sends shoeboxes to children around the world filled with toys, clothing, and other items children may need.

"Many of these children have never received a Christmas gift and we want this great opportunity to change a child's life by giving them a shoebox filled with goodies," said Vorderbruggen, whose church has organized this effort for several years. 

NHS is asking WDC students, families and the community to bring items to the school that will fit inside a shoebox. These items include toys, school supplies and hygiene items. Examples of toys are balls, dolls, stuffed animals, trucks, puppets, musical instruments, jump ropes and so on. School supplies include pens, pencils, crayons, markers, notebooks, paper and coloring books. Hygiene products include toothbrushes, bar soap, combs, washcloths, etc.

"You don't need to spend a lot of money on these items. It's the thought that counts," said Evans. "Also, please remember that the items need to be small so we can fit lots of items in a shoebox."

They are also asking that individuals not include the following: damaged items, war-related items like toy guns, knives or military figures, chocolate or out-of-date candy, no liquids, medications, breakable items or aerosol cans.

Furthermore, if individuals not able to purchase items, but would like to help, NHS is accepting monetary donationse money. "We have shoppers who are willing to buy items for the shoeboxes with your donation," said Vorderbruggen.

Collection and donation boxes are set up in the WDC Middle/High School office.  NHS is accepting donations through Oct. 30.

"Thank you for giving to our global project," added Vorderbruggen.

Wadena-Deer Creek second-grade teacher Junelle Jackson received some special mail recently from U.S. Air Force soldier Jamie Richter.

Mrs. Jackson's second-grade class from last year (now third-graders) corresponded with Richter who was serving overseas in Afghanistan.  

Inside the package from Richter was a large American flag, which was flown on March 12, 2015 onboard an RC-12X reconnaissance air craft. A signed certificate from the two air craft pilots was included with the flag and says the following:

“This flag represents the sacrifices our brothers and sisters at arms have made in defense of the United States of America and the freedom which we hold dear and true.”

“Our flag honors those who have fought to protect it and is a reminder of the sacrifice of our nation's founders and heroes. As the ultimate icon of America's storied history, the Stars and Stripes represents the best of this nation.”

In Richter's letter, she writes the following to Mrs. Jackson and her students:

“I am hoping this flag makes it to you this time. I have tried once, but it came back and you never know with the mail system out here. I know the kids are all 3rd graders now, but hopefully you can share this with them. I can't thank you enough, and each of them, for all the letters, gifts and kind words. I shared with all the soldiers and it made their days/holidays a little brighter in a NOT so bright place (Afghanistan).

This flag was flown on an Army RC-12, Guardrail. Part of my job is to task specific aircraft every day for collection to keep the special forces soldiers safe. I had them fly this flag on behalf of all those wonderful 2nd graders and my favorite 2nd grade teacher! The soldiers work very hard every day to keep everyone at home, in the United States, very safe. Thank you again for EVERYTHING!”

Mrs. Jackson said this flag was a “very special gift” and that she plans to hang the beautiful flag in her classroom.

Mrs. Jackson was honored last year with the Minnesota VFW K-5 Citizenship Teacher of the Year honor. In her 32nd year of teaching at WDC Elementary, Mrs. Jackson continues to engage her students in citizenship and patriotism by corresponding and sending care packages to soldiers, many of whom are Wadena-Deer Creek graduates.

Mandy Gallant ... Kindergarten Teacher

How many years have you been teaching at WDC Elementary? 
"This will be my 17th year teaching at WDC. I taught fourth grade my first year and then a combination of Gifted/Talented and Junior Kindergarten the following year. I did Junior Kindergarten for another five years and then had my first Kindergarten class in 2006. This will be my 10th year in Kindergarten."

Why did you want to be a teacher? Anyone influence you?
"I think I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. I remember my favorite thing to do when I was a little girl was to play 'school.' I had a desk, a pointer, a chalkboard, lots of books and art supplies - everything I thought a teacher needed! My Kindergarten and second-grade teachers were pretty special, too. I remember Miss Cherney singing and playing the piano and Mrs. Austad instilling a love of reading as well as helping us to develop our creative side through art. All of my teachers from Kindergarten through college have really been an influence in one way or another."

Do you think today's Kindergartners are learning more than, say 15 years ago?
"Things have certainly changed in the past 17 years that I've been teaching. I do feel like Kindergarten today is really the 'first grade of yesterday.' Before I was teaching primarily letters and sounds, and now Kindergartners are expected to be readers early on. I think it is critical that those working with younger students remember to be developmentally appropriate in their teaching. Kids still need to squish playdough to develop their fine motor skills, play games to learn how to take turns and play fair, and just play to learn how to share and get along with one another. With the advancements in technology, now more than ever we need to learn how to socialize and communicate with each other."

What makes WDC a great school?
"I think we have a dedicated and caring staff that take the students' best interest to heart. I've always liked the quote, 'Students don't care how much you know until they know how much you care.' Personally, I work really hard on establishing those positive relationships early on in the school year. From there we can do anything!"

Tell us a little about yourself?
"I grew up in Thief River Falls, Minn., and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1995. Go Prowlers! In 1999, I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Bemidji State University. In addition I hold both Kindergarten and Early Childhood Licensures. In 2005, I earned my Masters in Education through Southwest Minnesota State University. My husband, Norm, is the Activities Director/Dean of Students at WDC. He also coaches wrestling. We have two children, Grace and Madelyn. Grace is in 6th grade and Madelyn is a 5th grader. Both girls are at the middle school this year. Our girls are our biggest accomplishment and we just love watching them grow and learn. We feel so fortunate that our jobs have allowed us to be in the schools with them as well as freed up time for us to do things in the summer as a family. Life is good!"

Any pastimes or hobbies?
"I do spend a fair amount of time at school, but when I do get some time to myself I like to be with my family. We love to travel and take short road trips. I also enjoy time away with other teachers at scrapbooking retreats."

What makes you laugh?
"My Kindergartners! Did you know kids say the darndest things? I just love my job and the kids I get to work with every day. Their innocence and enthusiasm for life and learning keep me young at heart!"

Tori Ehlert ... Sixth-Grade Teacher

Since you are a new teacher at WDC this year, tell us a little about yourself?
"I grew up on a farm near Battle Lake. I am the baby of the family, with two older brothers and one older sister. I have four nephews and two nieces. I attended Battle Lake High School and then went to college at Concordia-Moorhead and played basketball for four years." 

Why did you want to be a teacher? Anyone influence you? 
"Ever since I was in ninth grade, I wanted to be a teacher. I was influenced by my third-grade teacher and volleyball coach, Mr. Johnson. Another huge influence was my professor/coach/friend Bob Kohler from Concordia. Mr. Kohler ALWAYS had staff and students in his office 24/7 and I wanted to be someone like that. I wanted to be a positive influence and build relationships with people the way he did." 

What do you enjoy most about teaching to sixth-grade students? 
"What I love most about working with the sixth-grade students is seeing their personalities shine. The more I get to know them, the more they surprise me with who they are. Their energy level definitely keeps me on my toes, too."

What has impressed you most about WDC so far? 
"I've been very impressed with how helpful and inviting everyone has been. Everyone I've met and have worked with have made it a great experience so far and I'm very happy with my decision to become a part of this community." 

Any pastimes or hobbies? 
"I love being on the lake as much as possible in the summer. I'm a huge fan of music and movies. I like to be active and try new things, including traveling when I can. My family is a huge part of my life and we spend a lot of time together." 

If you could be any sports figure for a day, who would that be and why? 
"There are a lot of sports figures I'd love to be for a day, but the first one that pops in my head would be UCLA men's basketball coach John Wooden. The amount of wisdom he had for on and off the court amazes me. The people he influenced and the lives he touched is something I truly admire."
 

Pictured is the cast of this year's fall production of "Stop Sending in the Clowns," directed by Mr. Jay Patterson. 

The Wadena-Deer Creek Drama Department will present “Stop Sending in the Clowns” on Nov. 19, 20 and 21 on the stage of the historic Wadena Memorial Auditorium. 

WDC theater director Jay Patterson explains the play is centered around the Burnum and Bailout Traveling Circus -- and the clowning around never stops under the wacky Big Top! 

Stephen Spilman portrays Burnum, he ringmaster and owner of Burnum and Bailout Traveling Circus, who's something of a con man too.

“The character Burnum is played by Stephen Spilman. Bailout is played by Michael Schmidt. They are quite the pair. Even though there is a circus genre throughout, the play is actually written as a ‘Who Dunn It?’ motif. There is a smuggling ring that is using the circus as a cover. They are smuggling rare artifacts, and it is the audience who must determine the criminals who are responsible,” says Patterson.

He continues, “Sheriff Doggleberry played by Devyn Norenberg is the principal detective who is trying to solve this mystery, and poor Beulah Von Schmellie played so adeptly by Liz Peterson is right in the middle of it all. Other characters who are making their debut include Logan Skillings as Haywood Seed, and Hannah Wedde as Tina, the prestidigitator, which is short for magician. And the discussion would not be complete unless the clowns were mentioned. Please, whatever you do though, do not say the word ‘clowns’ while the performance is happening. Strange things might happen on set,” remarks Patterson.

Patterson chose this play, which was written by playwright Pat Cook, because it is a comedy and everybody loves a good laugh. Patterson explains that it’s a wholesome play that allows students to discover who they are without too much stress. 

“Students have a chance to once again enlarge their comfort zone and develop that all important confidence in front of an audience. Such a tool in a student’s toolbox is priceless. It will pay dividends throughout their lives,” says Patterson 

As usual, students are having a wonderful time with the play; however, Patterson admits that learning lines can be tricky. 

“Students must not only know their own lines, but more importantly, they must know the cue lines delivered by someone else. It can be a challenge,” says Patterson. “What has been fun is watching the clowns as they do what clowns do. I am afraid that parents will not recognize their children because of the unique costuming being used and the clown makeup that will be worn.”

So what can the audience expect when they sit down to watch this play? Patterson believes this farcical mystery will be intriguing. 

“Because it is a mystery, the audience should be involved in trying to figure out who is smuggling the Ming urns into the country. The plot becomes so complicated that not even Columbo could make sense out of it all,” quips Patterson, adding, “And watch out for cockroaches. They can be nasty.”

iz Peterson, left, plays the overbearing and overdressed widow, Beulah Von Schmellie, and Hope Dumpprope is Beulah's young and very meek niece, Noelle. Photos by Anna Erickson, Wadena Pioneer Journal)

Right now, the student cast is practicing twice a day, except for Wednesdays. Patterson says while it’s hard on students, it’s necessary if the cast is going to put on a play that flows and entertains.

Patterson has directed plays since the late 1970s and continues to immerse himself in theater each school year here at WDC. He is in his 23rd year of serving as WDC’s theater director. 

Thirty-three students in grades 7-12 are involved in the all-school production, from acting to technical support. Students include: Esther Berger, Gabriel Berger, Maggie Carlson, Raine Curtis, Taylor Dirks, Coraline Donnay, Elliot Doyle, Hope Dumpprope, Rocky Fratzke, Katelyn Gardner, Molly Gilje, Lola Gilroy, Mari Grendahl, Mitchel Haman, Ben Keppers, Ashley Kern, Emma Mehl, Nancy Medina, Grace Mertens, Devyn Norenberg, Maddie Olson, Liz Peterson, Tianna Saltzman, Michael Schmidt, Logan Skillings, Stephen Spilman, Camille Taggart, Logan Taggart, Jeff Umland, Hannah Wedde, Soren Wedde, Jasmyn Wood and Alizzabeth Yungbauer.

The public is encouraged to see these young, talented thespians perform at Wadena Memorial Auditorium on Nov. 19, 20 and 21. Performance times are 7:30 p.m. This year, tickets will be sold at the door only -- $5 for adults and $3 for students.

 “We hope all who attend will safely survive the chaos that ensues at Memorial Auditorium,” says Patterson with a smile.

The following students were recognized for positive behavior recently at Wadena-Deer Creek Elementary, front, from left: Naveya McManigle, Libby Hartman and Kelanie Oldakowski; middle row, Mikael Briggs, Brayden Lenk, Salvador Lopez Arevalo, Wyatt Eggert and Aiden Moats. Not pictured Gia Licari. (Photo by Lisa Schmidt, WDC Elementary)

Several Wadena-Deer Creek Elementary students were recognized for demonstrating good behavior through the school's PAW's program. PAWS (Positive Always ready Working together Safe) supports positive behavior for WDC students in grades K-4. 

A student can be nominated by any staff member, not just their teacher. They are nominated by exhibiting positive behavior and helping others. The students are given a "yellow ticket," which they put it in a bucket that Principal Louis Rutten draws from, usually twice per month. The prizes are all donated from local and area businesses.

PAWS is a result of ENVOY (Educational Non-verbal Yardsticks) training the paraprofessional teams took part in this summer. Currently, 35 classroom teachers and paraprofessionals have received the ENVOY training.

Way to go, Wolverines!

Modern Woodsmen Insurance presented a matching grant of $2,500 recently to Never.Give.Up. and Wadena-Deer Creek Schools. Pictured, from left: Norm Gallant, WDC activities director; Nancy Pierce, Never.Give.Up. representative; Cecelia Harrison, Activities Coordinator, Modern Woodmen Insurance; Lee Westrum, WDC superintendent; Toni Kraska, WDC school counselor; and Tyler Church, WDC grades 5-12 principal. (Photo by Dana Pavek, WDC Schools)
 

Modern Woodsmen Insurance recently donated $2,500 to Wadena-Deer Creek Schools to help fund the school's Top 20 Training program. Top 20 Training focuses on teaching students coping skills for improving mental health. 

With its home office in Rock Island, Ill., Modern Woodsmen Insurance matched the $2,500 from this year's Never.Give.Up. 5K Run/Walk fundraiser held in August. Never.Give.Up. is a suicide prevention and awareness group established by area families affected by suicide who saw the need for more suicide-prevention education in schools. 

Never.Give.Up. is donating all proceeds from their fundraising efforts to different schools each year. This year’s recipient, Wadena-Deer Creek Schools, received 90 percent of the proceeds, while the remaining 10 percent will go New York Mills Schools. 

WDC High School Counselor Toni Kraska said WDC is very appreciative of the funding from Never.Give.Up. and Modern Woodmen Insurance, and is excited to roll out the Top 20 Training this year. Staff received their first training on Nov. 2, and parents are invited and encouraged to attend a presentation by Top 20 trainers on Dec. 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Wadena Memorial Auditorium. Prior to the presentation, there's a free meal from 5 to 6 p.m. in the WDC Elementary cafeteria, as well as free child care. Students will start the process during school on Dec. 2.

"We are very excited to begin the Top 20 Training program. Top 20 Training empowers youth to make a positive difference in the quality of their lives, relationships and experiences. It's a program WDC believes will help provide a positive atmosphere for students in and out of school."