ILC | Faculty

Administrator and Support Staff

Mr. Brian Betts
Principal

I grew up in central Minnesota in a rural community outside of Kimball in which my family had a small hobby farm. I recieved a BA in elementary education with a concentration in Environmental Science from Concordia College St. Paul, MN. I later received a Masters in Educational Administration from Concordia University Wisconsin. It has been a blessing to serve at Immanuel in many roles since 1992 and currently serve as principal. I am the husband of Wendy and father to Caleb, Kaity, and Chassiya. I enjoy cooking, gardening, and time at the lake.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
God has been present in many things in my life at different levels. When my children were baptized into God's family God was present. When my father passed away and having the comfort that this is all in God’s hands was a comfort. In my role as administrator and having the opportunity to share Jesus with families while I am just the hands and feet of God. In times like these our God is Real and Present.

Fill in the blank: If I weren't so good at my job I'd probably be______________.
A Farmer

Hometown: Clearwater, MN
Bachelor's Degree: Concordia University, St. Paul, MN
Master's Degree: Educational Administration, Concordia University, Mequon, WI
Mrs. Sue Zolnik
school secretary

I am married to Craig and have 2 daughters, Danielle and Sadie Jo, son in law Ben and 3 grandchildren, Liam, Nora Jane, and Carson. I also have 2 dogs, Remington and Diesel. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, walking, boating and reading. I have worked in a school setting for over 20 years with all age levels and truly enjoy working at Immanuel Lutheran School. God has blessed me richly with great family and friends!

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
A time when I felt Gods real presence was on my birthday when I was visiting my mom and she passed away 3 days later.

Choose a movie title for the story of your life.
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs.

Hometown: Menomonie, WI
Mrs. Susan Cour
admissions counselor

I grew up in a small suburb of Chicago. I have always had a love for children and animals. I originally attended college to be a biologist, with a life long dream of studying wolves in Yellowstone. However, God had other plans and I ended up graduating with a degree in Early Childhood Education. I taught in Illinois for several years and then at Immanuel for 1 year before staying home to have children. For the past almost 8 years I have been blessed to be serving as Admissions Counselor here at Immanuel. Last year I had the opportunity to step back into the classroom as well and I am enjoying my time teaching God's children. I love my career as I have the opportunity to meet new people, be around children, and still raise my family. God is amazing!

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
There are two situations that immediately popped into my head regarding God's REAL presence. First, several years back my dad was diagnosed with cancer. He has always been the rock in our family and I saw his struggle with his diagnosis. Yet in the midst of the uncertainty I could also feel God's presence as He guided each step of His journey and kept Him in His loving care. He is fully recovered and we are grateful for God's goodness.
I can also clearly feel God's presence when I am in His creation, specifically when I take time to admire it. The stillness of a lake in the evening, the call of a loon, the roar of the ocean's waves, the width and depth of a canyon, the thrilling sound of a waterfall...I could go on and on. In each of these moments I can truly feel God's presence in our crazy, chaotic world.

Fill in the blank: If I were a superhero, my superhero power would be______.
Invisibility.
With 4 children I would love to be able to disappear whenever I needed to do so.

Hometown: Island Lake, IL
Bachelor's Degree: Early Childhood Education, Concordia University, River Forest, IL Concentration: Psychology
Mrs. Wendy Betts
reading interventionist and curriculum

I grew up in a farming community in western Iowa. After college I spent one year teaching in Pittsburgh, PA. I have had many different teaching roles at Immanuel, and currently I am enjoying teaching 3rd grade English/Language Arts as well as being the reading interventionist. What I love most about teaching is sharing Jesus and my love for reading with my students. I enjoy gardening, fun at the lake such as swimming, canoeing, and fishing, and taking vacations to places I've never visited. I am the mom of three teenagers who keep me laughing.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
I am the mother of 3 teenagers/young adults and spend everyday at school with children of different ages. I feel God’s real presence everyday as I reflect on His Word, and guide all the children in my life to realize God’s purpose for themselves. Fortunately I also feel God’s presence in my life each day as I learn from my children and students.

Fill in the blank: If I won the lottery tomorrow, I'd start a ________company. And, you know, keep working here.
I would start a consulting company to support Lutheran Schools in their development and ministry needs and opportunities.

Hometown: Charter Oak, IA
Bachelor's Degree: Bachelor in Education majoring in English and Health, Concordia University, Seward, NE
Master's Degree: Educational Literacy with a Reading Teacher License and a Reading Specialist License, Concordia University, Mequon, WI
Mrs. Lee
reading interventionist

I was born and raised in Wisconsin Rapids and feel blessed to be part of the Immanuel teaching family. Everyday is an opportunity to share, learn, and grow in Jesus and His love. And, in 4th grade, everyday is an adventure! I enjoy working with this age group because the students have become a little more independent, yet they are curious and excited to learn. When I'm not in the classroom, I enjoy road trips, spending time at the lake, campfires, reading, and spending time with my family.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
When my kids were little I was blessed to be able to stay at home with them. I had my teaching license and had always said that if I could choose which grade I taught I would want to teach 4th grade. As my kids got older and started getting to school age we decided that I would go back to work part time as my youngest would be in school half days for 4K. Both of our kids were going to school here at Immanuel and the year that Morgan started 4K a part time position opened up in 4th grade! I definitely felt God's real presence as he guided my family and I to be a part of the Immanuel family. Through teaching here I have become very interested in reading instruction and went back to school to add on to my teaching license. And God has given me another opportunity and adventure here at Immanuel that I will embark upon this year. I can't wait to see what He has in store!

Of the places you have visited, what's your favorite?
My favorite place I've ever visited is a very tough question to answer. There are so many places I'd love to go back to and visit again. However, if I had to choose just one, I think I would pick the Narrows in Zion National Park. The beauty in the stone, the immensity of the cliffs, the serenity of the river, and the mix of people, cultures and languages had me awestruck. I could have hung out there all day taking in God's creations!

Hometown: Wisconsin Rapids, WI
Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education, University of Wisconsin, Superior
Minor: Social Studies
Mrs. Venessa Gronski
special education

Childcare

Ms. Teresa Wells
child care director and lead teacher

I was born and raised in Lansing, Michigan (GO BLUE!). From a very early age I knew I wanted to become a teacher, yet it wasn’t until my own children were older that I started to pursue my dream. I went to work for the Head Start program in Lansing and was encouraged to take classes for early childhood. I attended Lansing Community College and received my Associate Degree in Child Development (2000). After a short break I went back and received my Bachelor Degree in Early Childhood (2010) and my Masters Degree in Education (2012) both form Ashford University in Clinton, Iowa. In 2013 I started teaching Early Childhood Education part time as an Adjunct Professor for Rasmussen College. After 25 years working for the Head Start program I resigned and accepted the position as Child Care Director and Teacher for Immanuel Lutheran School. I have been blessed with three amazing adult children and 7 awesome grandchildren, ranging in ages 7 months to 15 years. I also
have a “fur baby”, Jazzy who is 8 years old.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
When I first started looking into moving to Central Wisconsin I knew it wouldn’t be easy, yet God was there every step of the way, blessing me with finances, a new job, and a new place to live. Once I accepted His plan and didn’t run from it, He opened all the doors necessary to ensure a transition.

If you could choose your age for the rest of your life, what age would you
be and why?
I would have to say the age I am now. Still young enough to do the things in life I enjoy doing, yet old enough to see my grandchildren growing up. I marvel at how God has blessed each of my family members and continues to love, protect, and guide us.

Hometown: Lansing, MI
Associates Degree: Child Development, Lansing Community College, MI
Bachelor's Degree: Early Childhood Education, Ashford University, Clinton, Iowa.
Minor: Special Education
Master's Degree:Education, Ashford University, Clinton, Iowa
Mrs. Lisa Leverance
child care teacher

Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to teach children. I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for the little ones. I have provided child care in the Wisconsin Rapids area for over 30 years to a variety of ages.

I was born and raised in Wisconsin Rapids and went to a parochial grade school as a child. This opportunity instilled a passion for Jesus in my everyday life and a learning about his undying love for us.

I’ve been married to my best friend, Tim for 28 ½ years. (Which by the way I met at the parochial grade school.) He works for Ocean Spray in Wisconsin Rapids as a
maintenance planner.

We have 2 awesome children. Tyler who is 25 years old and lives in LaCrosse. He is an orthopedic surgical specialist for Stryker out of the LaCrosse area. Sarah who is 23 years old and is in her last year at UW- Oshkosh is going into public relations. She lives in Fond du Lac and works full time at the Nike Factory Outlet in Oshkosh.

Both Tyler and Sarah attended Immanuel Lutheran School from Kindergarten – 8 th grade and graduating. The education they received here is outstanding and still to this day has shaped their lives and relationship with Jesus.

In my spare time I like to go to concerts, read and travel…especially to the beach.
I’m excited to be a part of Immanuel Lutheran School again and to help teach and share God's wonderful love for us.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
God has been present through out my life in many ways, almost too many to mention. He has been there through health issues, job loss, finances, family and death. I know God always has a plan and he is in control. The Lord will provide. I need to trust his ever-present love for me and let him handle these big and small things.

What is your dream car?
Don’t really have one. Anything that is comfortable and dependable, that
needs no maintenance, doesn’t use gas or electricity, has an awesome music / sound
system and just goes when needed.

Hometown: Wisconsin Rapids, WI
Associate's Degree: Early Childhood Education
Mid-State Technical College, Wisconsin Rapids

Early Childhood and Elementary Staff

Miss Dian Schlichtmann
4k teacher

From the time I was little, teaching has been my passion. What a joy it is to spend my days teaching God's little ones about His love and promises. There is no better learning we will ever receive than to truly understand that "Jesus loves me this I know for the Bible tells me so!" To God be the glory!

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
I felt God's real presence in my car as I drove through the huge April blizzard this year. HE drove and I'm so thankful He had the wheel!

If you could pick up a new skill in an instant, what would it be?
I'd love to have the skill to read the Bible in its original languages.

Hometown: Hillsboro, ND
Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education, English Concentration, Concordia University, Seward, NE
Minor: Primary Education
Early Childhood Certificate from Pacific Lutheran University
Mrs. Tahnee Mueske
morning 4K assistant

Growing up on a farm in Western Kansas, I learned how to not only work hard, but play just as hard. I grew up with three sisters and instead of "getting dirty" in the field with my dad like my sisters, I opted to hone my skills and make the workers the "best fed" farmers in Kansas. This passion at a young age led me to pursue the culinary arts out of high school. I've been fortunate to travel across the world and been exposed to many different cultures. After graduation, I not only got to apprentice under some renowned Chefs in Belgium and France, but also found myself as a nanny for a sweet 10-month old named Ruby in Australia while her parents tended to a grape vineyard. This was the start of God whispering my destiny.

My heart has always been with children, but you become entranced with the world and it's demands and "making a means to an end", which brought me up the ranks of the hospitality industry. From serving at one of America's top restaurants in Boulder, CO to restaurant management and events directing at a private-friendly country club, I learned how to see the details, anticipate needs and deliver results. During my time of working in Colorado, God started to cultivate what He had planted as my path crossed with a divorcee who offered me an extra bedroom in her gorgeous home in exchange for me becoming a nanny to three precious kids. To this day, those kids feel as my own and I love them dearly. This was the awakening of a yearning I've always had to work with kids. Although at times it has been an exhausting game of tug-and-war on where I belong, I believe I am on the right path at Immanuel and look forward to meeting the children and not only loving on them and teaching them, but also learning FROM them.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
I was about 9 years old and was singing in the garage while my mother mowed the lawn just as the sun was setting. Suddenly I heard the most beautiful, angelic voice singing with me that filled the space and I just stopped, not in fear, but in amazement and awe. It only lasted for about 20 seconds but it brought a sense of peace and calm in my heart and I knew God was one with my innocence and my guardian angel worshiped alongside me.

What do you think you will be doing 20 years from now?
Twenty years from now, I plan on being content and happy. Who knows what I'll be doing, but whatever it is I pray that I will be at peace with where I'm at and made a difference with my life.

Hometown: Goodland, Kansas
Associate's Degree: Applied Science with the emphasis on Culinary Arts
Colorado Institute of Art in Denver, CO
Ms. Sarah Albright
afternoon 4K assistant

I am a lifelong resident of Central Wisconsin - aside from my college years in the Twin Cities. I have been a member of ILC since 1985 and graduated from ILS in 1991. To say Immanuel has had a positive impact on my life is putting it mildly. I’m looking forward to spending my afternoons with the 4K class & learning to view God's creation through their joy-filled eyes. I’m a mom to 3 amazing kids - Alex, Abigail & Sadie and enjoy most types of crafting and all types of traveling.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
Just over a year ago my husband (Brian) suddenly passed away. In the moments, days, weeks & months that have followed I’ve continually felt God’s incredibly real presence. He has, thankfully, been with the kids & I as we walk this new, unexpected & rocky road. We have no idea what our future holds, but we know the one who holds it and are able to find peace in that.

What is something you would like to do in the next year that you have never done before?
I’ve done a lot of things in the last year that I have never done before, but one additional thing that I’d like to accomplish is to have intentional quiet time with the Lord each morning.

Hometown: Vesper, WI
Mrs. Laura Kester
kindergarten teacher

Hometown:
Bachelor's Degree:
Minors:
Mrs. Pam DeRoche
kindergarten teacher assistant

I am originally from the Chicago suburbs but have lived in Lisbon, Portugal for almost 2 years and here in central Wisconsin for 13 years. I am grateful to be married to my best friend Dan and also grateful to be a mom to our daughter Abby and son, Jared. Working with children and letting them know they are special and dearly loved by God is a passion of mine. In my free time I enjoy baking, gardening, walking, and hanging out with my family.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
I am thankful to have known God’s real presence since I was very little. I was taught early on that God is my closest friend and is always with me. Often as I walked to school as a little girl, I would picture Jesus walking along with me, holding my hand. I still know He holds my hand as I walk through life as an adult. Thankfully, He never lets go!
Hometown: South Elgin, IL

Fill in the blank: Three words that describe me are__________.

Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education
Trinity International University, Deerfield, IL
To Be Announced
first grade teacher

Hometown:
Degree:
Minor:
Ms. Mary Martin
first grade teacher assistant

Hometown:
Degree:
Minor:
Mrs. Sharon Dykstra
second grade teacher

I was born in Illinois and grew up in Des Plaines, Illinois where I attended Immanuel Lutheran and Maine West High School. During those years I was involved in volleyball, badminton, and played the clarinet in concert and marching band. After high school I attended Valparaiso University and Concordia University in Chicago, where I received my teaching degree. My first teaching call brought me here to teach first grade, but through the years I have enjoyed teaching second, third, and even a few classes in sixth and eighth grade. Presently I am looking forward to spending my days with a room full of eager, second graders. What a blessing it is to spend my days sharing the love of Jesus with these little ones! I am married to my husband, Mark. We have been blessed with three sons-Keith, Kevin, and Steven. When I
am not busy in the classroom or doing school work, I like to spend time with Mark and also visit our sons. Together we take walks with our dogs, Sophie and Smokey. I also enjoy taking long bike rides, playing board games, and doing some scrapbooking when I have time.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
God has certainly been present throughout my life, both at low points and at high points. One area in which I have felt His presence is in prayer, and reflecting on how he has answered my prayers. However, for this question I am going to go back in time to my confirmation and first communion. During those two times I felt a special closeness to Him; His grace and love surrounded me.

If you could choose one hobby that now seems out of your reach either financially or time-wise, what hobby would you take up and why?
I do love to see all of the diverse areas of our country, the national parks, the historical cities, and the just plain fun places, so it would be cool to hop in a mobile home or pull a camper and just tour the country! I also think it would be neat to travel to Europe and experience the beauty and culture of different countries.

Hometown: Des Plaines, IL
Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education, Concordia University, River Forest, IL Concentration: Early Childhood and Math
Ms. Sandy Hoefling
second grade teacher assistant

My name is Sandy Hoefling. I have 6 children: Bobby, Toby, Chase, Travis, Faith, and Hope. I also have a grandson, Dominic. My two youngest children go to Immanuel. I grew up and went to school in northeastern Illinois and I moved to central Wisconsin in 2000.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.

Middle School Staff

Mrs. Susan Cour
third grade co-teacher

I grew up in a small suburb of Chicago. I have always had a love for children and animals. I originally attended college to be a biologist, with a life long dream of studying wolves in Yellowstone. However, God had other plans and I ended up graduating with a degree in Early Childhood Education. I taught in Illinois for several years and then at Immanuel for 1 year before staying home to have children. For the past almost 9 years I have been blessed to be serving as Admissions Counselor here at Immanuel. Two years ago I had the opportunity to step back into the classroom as well and I am enjoying my time teaching God's children. I love my career as I have the opportunity to meet new people, be around children, and still raise my family. God is amazing!

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
There are two situations that immediately popped into my head regarding God's REAL presence. First, several years back my dad was diagnosed with cancer. He has always been the rock in our family and I saw his struggle with his diagnosis. Yet in the midst of the uncertainty I could also feel God's presence as He guided each step of His journey and kept Him in His loving care. He is fully recovered and we are grateful for God's goodness.
I can also clearly feel God's presence when I am in His creation, specifically when I take time to admire it. The stillness of a lake in the evening, the call of a loon, the roar of the ocean's waves, the width and depth of a canyon, the thrilling sound of a waterfall...I could go on and on. In each of these moments I can truly feel God's presence in our crazy, chaotic world.

Fill in the blank: If I were a superhero, my superhero power would be______.
Invisibility.
With 4 children I would love to be able to disappear whenever I needed to do so.

Hometown: Island Lake, IL
Bachelor's Degree: Early Childhood Education, Concordia University, River Forest, IL Concentration: Psychology
Mrs. Gabi Scheunemann
third grade co-teacher

I was born and raised in Wisconsin Rapids and feel blessed to be part of the Immanuel teaching family. Everyday is an opportunity to share, learn, and grow in Jesus and His love. And, in 4th grade, everyday is an adventure! I enjoy working with this age group because the students have become a little more independent, yet they are curious and excited to learn. When I'm not in the classroom, I enjoy road trips, spending time at the lake, campfires, reading, and spending time with my family.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
When my kids were little I was blessed to be able to stay at home with them. I had my teaching license and had always said that if I could choose which grade I taught I would want to teach 4th grade. As my kids got older and started getting to school age we decided that I would go back to work part time as my youngest would be in school half days for 4K. Both of our kids were going to school here at Immanuel and the year that Morgan started 4K a part time position opened up in 4th grade! I definitely felt God's real presence as he guided my family and I to be a part of the Immanuel family. Through teaching here I have become very interested in reading instruction and went back to school to add on to my teaching license. And God has given me another opportunity and adventure here at Immanuel that I will embark upon this year. I can't wait to see what He has in store!

Of the places you have visited, what's your favorite?
My favorite place I've ever visited is a very tough question to answer. There are so many places I'd love to go back to and visit again. However, if I had to choose just one, I think I would pick the Narrows in Zion National Park. The beauty in the stone, the immensity of the cliffs, the serenity of the river, and the mix of people, cultures and languages had me awestruck. I could have hung out there all day taking in God's creations!

Hometown: Wisconsin Rapids, WI
Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education, University of Wisconsin, Superior
Minor: Social Studies
To Be Announced
fourth grade teacher

Hometown:
Bachelor's Degree:
Ms. Cortney Hahn
fifth grade teacher

I was born and raised in Wisconsin Rapids and I attended Immanuel from Kindergarten through 8th grade. The lessons learned, the firm foundation of my faith set, and the strong friendships that were formed at Immanuel have truly shaped my life. I'm so fortunate to have attended this school; and I am incredibly blessed to be back at Immanuel teaching and sharing my faith with these great kids! When I'm not in the classroom, my husband Devin and I enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, campfires, and just about whatever adventure comes our way.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
Recently my dad was in a dangerous car accident. God was with him and kept him safe from any major life-threatening injuries.

Fill in the blank: If I could invent a holiday, it would definitely involve_______.
...wearing hats and singing around campfires.

Hometown: Wisconsin Rapids, WI
Bachelor's Degree: Anthropology, University of MN, Duluth
Bachelor's Degree: Secondary Social Studies Education, University of MN, Duluth
Minor: Outdoor Education

Junior High Staff

Ms. Melody Czarapata
sixth grade homeroom teacher

I was born and raised in Wausau, Wisconsin and am happy to be starting my fourth year of teaching in the northwoods. I feel blessed to be a part of the Immanuel family, serving as the 6th grade homeroom and 8th grade English Language Arts teacher. I am overwhelmed with joy for the opportunity to share my passion for learning and Christ with my students each and every day. When I'm not in the classroom, I enjoy camping, reading, cheering on the Packers/Brewers, Netflix, and visiting with friends and family.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
A time in my life when I felt God's real presence was during the 2007 National Youth Gathering in Orlando, Florida. So many Christians together in one place praising God!

Fill in the blank: The most important thing I learned in high school was______________.
The most important thing I learned in high school was that friends and boyfriends come and go, but your relationship with God is forever. His unfailing love is always there.

Hometown: Wausau, WI
Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education, Double Minor in English and Science, Concordia University, Mequon, WI
Mrs. Brittany Hokana
seventh grade homeroom teacher

Hometown:
Mrs. Rebekah Drewiske
eighth grade homeroom teacher

I was born and raised in Lansing, Michigan. I began my teaching career at ILS in 1997 as a brand new graduate of Concordia University in River Forest, IL.I have been married for 16 years and a stay-at-home mom for 14 years. I have remained involved at ILS in various ways including being a substitute teacher, auction committee member, and room parent. This year is the only year that all 3 of my children will attend ILS together. This year begins a new phase in our lives as parents of a high schooler.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
EVERY DAY there is something that reminds me that God is real and present in my life...from the beauty of His creation to how the daily events of my life play out. Currently I am on the call committee for finding a Senior Pastor here at Immanuel. We are committed as a group to be led by the Holy Spirit, putting aside our own desires or agendas to really listen. During one recent meeting I was really struggling for an answer to be made abundantly clear to me. I prayed for wisdom and guidance and God led me to the answer He wanted and filled me with clarity and peace. God is REAL. God is PRESENT.

You're a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why?
I would be a neon green crayon because I tend to stand out in a crowd. I love to have fun and I’m not afraid to share the joy of Jesus with those around me.

Hometown: Lansing, MI
Bachelor's in Education from Concordia University River Forest

Other Support Staff

Mr. Rob Judziewicz
physical education

I grew up and went to school in Greenfield, WI. I have been married to my wife Traci for 13 years and we have a son Andrew who is 11 and a daughter Kelsi who is 9. I graduated with PE, Health, and APE in 2001 from UWSP. The past 5 years I taught at Pacelli Catholic Middle School. I look forward to the excitement and challenges at Immanuel Lutheran School.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.

Share a personal fact no one would ever guess about you.
I was in a rock band in high school.

Hometown: Greenfield, WI
UWSP: PE, Health, and APE
Mrs. Cara Lee
art teacher

I was born and raised in Wisconsin Rapids and feel blessed to be part of the Immanuel teaching family. Everyday is an opportunity to share, learn, and grow in Jesus and His love. And, in 4th grade, everyday is an adventure! I enjoy working with this age group because the students have become a little more independent, yet they are curious and excited to learn. When I'm not in the classroom, I enjoy road trips, spending time at the lake, campfires, reading, and spending time with my family.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
When my kids were little I was blessed to be able to stay at home with them. I had my teaching license and had always said that if I could choose which grade I taught I would want to teach 4th grade. As my kids got older and started getting to school age we decided that I would go back to work part time as my youngest would be in school half days for 4K. Both of our kids were going to school here at Immanuel and the year that Morgan started 4K a part time position opened up in 4th grade! I definitely felt God's real presence as he guided my family and I to be a part of the Immanuel family. Through teaching here I have become very interested in reading instruction and went back to school to add on to my teaching license. And God has given me another opportunity and adventure here at Immanuel that I will embark upon this year. I can't wait to see what He has in store!

Of the places you have visited, what's your favorite?
My favorite place I've ever visited is a very tough question to answer. There are so many places I'd love to go back to and visit again. However, if I had to choose just one, I think I would pick the Narrows in Zion National Park. The beauty in the stone, the immensity of the cliffs, the serenity of the river, and the mix of people, cultures and languages had me awestruck. I could have hung out there all day taking in God's creations!

Hometown: Wisconsin Rapids, WI
Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education, University of Wisconsin, Superior
Minor: Social Studies
Mrs. Ruth Macomber
art teacher

I was born in Southern Illinois, a "flat-lander".

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.

Hometown: Newton, IL
Bachelor's Degree: Art Education, University of Wisconsin; Superior, WI
Lifetime State of Wisconsin License in K-12 Art Education
Masters in Education
Ms. Hannah Maher
a.m. and p.m. cougar kids

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.

Hometown: St. Paul, MN
Any Degrees: AA, Working on BA
Mrs. Hannah Elgersma
head cook

I grew up in a small town on the northern side of Lake Erie in Ontario, Canada. Having attended a Christian elementary and high school, I fully appreciate the benefits of a Christian education. Additionally, my three children have been blessed to attend Immanuel. I enjoy serving God by serving food to the multitudes of children that pass through Immanuel's doors each year. And when I'm not doing that, my favorite activities include spending time with my husband and children, gardening, reading, stamping, and cooking.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
God's real presence has been with me at many times in my life, throughout happy events and trials as well. I am always amazed at the blessings that He shares, and I am humbled when He displays the splendour of His creation in a majestic sunrise or sunset.

If you could have dinner with someone who is alive or dead, other than God, who would it be and why?
I would like to have dinner with Queen Elizabeth II. I greatly respect the Queen's humility, as she constantly serves the Lord throughout all the ups and downs in her life.

Hometown: Waterford, Ontario, Canada
Mrs. Deb Fillmore
hot lunch bookkeeper and scrip coordinator

My husband Matt and I have been married for 19 years and we have two children and a kitty named Holly. Kyle is a student at Mid-State Technical College and Morgan is in 10th grade at Lincoln High. Both of our children went to ILS from Kindergarten through 8th grade. For 9 years I provided in-home daycare for several of Immanuel's teachers and parents so I am most known as Ms. Deb to the kids. Our family enjoys watching all sports, especially football, baseball and hockey. This year is the 5th year we have hosted a player for the Wisconsin Rapids Riverkings hockey team. In my spare time I enjoy walks around the lake, painting, cleaning, reading and playing games on Wednesday's for Fillmore Family Fun Night.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.
I felt God's real presence when our son Kyle was born. He was 6 weeks premature and weighed only 3 pounds. With lots of prayers and patience, he gained weight everyday and was able to come home after just 3 weeks of staying in the NICU.

Fill in the blank: When I was 5 years old I wanted to be a ___________.
Nurse

Hometown: Nekoosa, WI
B.S. in Retail Studies from UW Stevens Point
Mrs. Cheryl Verhulst
librarian

I have been married 37 years and have two children. We were also foster parents for 12 years and helped raise over 50 children from 6 months to 18 years old. My grandson attends Immanuel and is in the 3rd grade.

I taught in a Christian school for 10 years in Iowa, teaching junior and senior high math, literature, choir, band, drama, and working with the sports program. I also worked as an adjunct instructor in the Math and Science department of the local community college. We moved here in 2002 and I became the administrator of Community Christian Academy until it closed in 2008.

I now work at McMillan Library in both the customer service and technical service areas. I attend Faith Reformed Church and am in charge of the Children's Church program there.

Our theme this year is REAL.PRESENT.GOD. Name a time in your life when you felt God’s real presence.

A time when I really felt God was during the time I went through the experiencing God Bible study with my students at CCA.

What was your favorite childhood toy?
Tinker Toys

Hometown: Sheboygan Falls, WI
Bachelors in Elementary Education from Central College, Pella, IA
Major in Math from Coe College, Cedar Rapids, IA
Masters in Educational Administration from Drake University, Des Moines, IA
Food Handling Certification from the state of Wisconsin
I was certified as a teacher K-12 and Principal K-12
hot lunch assistant