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. 


    What is one thing you would really like to own? Why?

    A time traveler so I could go view things in the future and the past.


    What is your favorite ice cream shoppe and what is your favorite ice cream treat to eat from there?

    Moomers....Caramel Sea Salt ice cream



    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?


     

    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!


    Would you rather be able to run incredibly fast or jump incredibly high? Why?

    Run Fast....I have always wanted to be a runner and have never pursued that. :(


    What do you miss from your childhood?

    My mom's cooking.


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    I lost my mom a year ago. I miss not being able to physically visit her, but I still talk to her. I am at ease knowing she is in heaven and that God is still watching over her and me. That is how God never changes. He is always with us.


    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!


    What TV show do you remember watching as a child?

    The Love Boat and Fantasy Island on Saturday nights while my mom put curlers in my hair for church the next day.


    What 3 songs are included on the soundtrack to your life?

    This probably changes for me from day to day, but right now I would say the following:

    In the Hands of God by Newsboys

    As Time Goes By by Jimmy Durante

    Blessed by Martina McBride


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    My most recent change is actually the class I have this year.  I am still teaching 3rd grade (same as last year) but the children are obviously different.  This group challenges me in an entirely different way and brings a different set of needs than the class did last year.  I find that even though I am facing different circumstances, my God is so big, so strong and so mighty there's still nothing He can't do.  He never changes and brings me exactly what I need, when I need it.


    Hometown: Island Lake, IL

    Bachelor's Degree: Early Childhood Education, Concordia University, River Forest, IL  Concentration: Psychology

  • Mrs. Wendy Betts

    reading interventionist

    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.


    If you could go back in time, to what year/era would you travel?

    I wouldn't mind going back to a simpler time...just as long as it isn't before inventions such as electricity and indoor plumbing. 


    When are you most aware of God's presence in your life?

    I am most aware of God's presence in my life when I see His answer to my prayers...especially those involving my 3 children at home or my kiddos at school.


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    This year the biggest change is my life is that 2 of my 3 children left home to go to college.  I really miss not having them at home and seeing them everyday, however God is with me every moment of every day.  I know that He is with each of my family members too.  He helps each of us adjust, grow smarter, and grow closer to Him.  Even though we can't be together everyday, God stills gives us opportunities to be together as a family.  God assures me that we still love each other and will see each other.  God also assures me that He has always and will always love me and be with me.



    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

Early Childhood and Elementary Staff

  • Miss Dian Schlichtmann

    4k teacher, music teacher, child care director

    From the time I was little, teaching has been my passion and music my love. What a joy it is to spend my mornings teaching God's little ones about His love and promises, and then spend my afternoons singing His praises with our K-Grade 5 students. To God be the glory!


    If you could live anywhere, where would it be and why?

    A home in the country (not city) within an hour's drive of all my family so I could more actively participate in their lives (attend sporting events, concerts, etc...).  


    Outside of salvation, what is the best gift you have been given?

    My family.


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    This year we have had a variety of changes in our staff members in the 4K and childcare areas at Immanuel. Throughout the hiring process, training sessions, and now day-by-day childhood adventures, God's faithfulness in providing what we need has been and is beautifully displayed. His timing is perfect...always! His love is unwavering...always! His grace is sufficient...always! To God be the glory!


    Hometown: Hillsboro, ND

    Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education, English Concentration, Concordia University, Seward, NE

    Minor: Primary Education

    Early Childhood Certificate from Pacific Lutheran University

  • Ms. Courtney Anunson

    morning child care and 4K assistant

    My name is Courtney Anunson! I’m 25 years old, and I live here in Wisconsin Rapids! My favorite season is fall, though I do love the summer weather too. I’m a definite night owl, but I’m working on becoming a morning person as I always feel more accomplished when I get up early! I love working at Immanuel Lutheran School because everyone is so welcoming and caring towards each other - students and staff!!


    What are two of your favorite smells?

    Fall and Campfires


    If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

    North Carolina


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    Something that has recently changed in my life is my work and school schedule, it has become a lot more chaotic than usual. Though I thought I would have a really hard time adjusting to earlier days and earlier nights, God has helped me adapt/adjust to those schedule changes with no issues; I also know that no matter where I am throughout the day, and no matter what changes I make to my daily schedule and my sleep schedule, God is still there for me to talk to (pray to) at any time of the day! 


    Hometown: Wisconsin Rapids, WI

    Bachelor's Degree: Graduating in December from UW Stout with a degree in

    Human Development and Family Studies

    Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education

  • Mrs. Jersey Dykes

    afternoon child care and 4K assistant

    I was born and raised in Lakeville, Minnesota. I just recently moved to Wisconsin because of my husband's job as a youth pastor in Port Edwards, Wisconsin. I am married with a dog named Dunkin Donut. I went to college at North Central University in Minneapolis and graduated with a degree in Elementary Education. I went from knowing nothing about football to buying a packers jersey (my family isn't too proud of that), and I am loving it here in Wisconsin!  You will always find a cup of iced coffee in my hand and a good book in the other!

    If you were stranded on a desert island, what 3 things would you want to have along? 

    Coffee beans, matches, and fuzzy socks.


    What is your biggest fear?

    Sharks!


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    My "home" has recently changed. I moved to Wisconsin about three months ago and God has shown me through this what it means to have a strong community by my side. I have a great church family and a great husband that God has placed in my life to help comfort and support me. 


    Hometown: Lakeville, MN

    Degree: Elementary Education from North Central University, MN

  • Mrs. Rachel Benson

    kindergarten teacher

    My name is Rachel Benson. I am a graduate from Concordia University, Saint Paul, MN. I have been married to my husband and best friend, David Benson, for 2 years and we are expecting our first child in the spring of 2018! I grew up in Finlayson, a tiny town in MN and my husband grew up in the Twin Cities...quite the opposite! As much as we like the Big City, we like Rapids and the quiet lifestyle we think it provides.

     

    Here at Immanuel, I teach Kindergarten, direct Handbells and help coach track. I also help run tech (slides and sound) at church and occasionally sing on the worship team. I love being outdoors! Any type of outdoor activity: camping, swimming, running, biking, playing catch… you name it, I probably like it. I am also a big sports person – I love running and swimming. My favorite sports teams are the MN Vikings, MN Twins and the MN Wild. (Yes, I am a MN Girl and always will be).  I love music, whether it is singing listening to it. My favorite Genres are Contemporary Christian and Country including artists such as: Matthew West, Christ Tomlin, Casting Crowns, Hawk Nelson, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton…. and many more. If you have not heard of these people you are missing out, look them up. People would describe me as friendly, outgoing and energetic which is why I love to teach the little ones.


    What do you miss from your childhood?  

    I miss just being a kid and having fun without being worried about timing or the stresses of being an adult! I try to bring that "fun" into my classroom where each child who comes into Kindergarten can be a kid, have fun and work hard! Let's not miss out being a kid while we can! And even as adults, take that time to relax and have fun too!  


    Choose a movie title for the story of your life.  

    God's Not Dead Two. I may not be a public school teacher but like her I love to share my faith and answer questions others have and it should not matter where you are! Stick with God and he will show you the way! 


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    Something that has recently changed in my life is the number of people in our family. Expecting our firstborn, my husband and I go between being excited and ready, to nervous and scared... Oh how this will change our life style... We know that through it all God has exactly the right plan and timing already set and He will be there to provide for us all that we need. We are already starting to see this as we are very thankful for all the friends and family in our lives that are there to help us through this NEW experience! We are looking forward to it!! Please keep us in your prayers! 


    Hometown: Finlayson, MN

    Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education K-6 with a Pre-Primary Endorsement, 

    Concordia University, St. Paul, MN

    Minors: Confessional Lutheranism and Music

  • 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.


    What is your favorite place?

    Door County and Chicago


    What is your favorite grab and go meal?

    Sandwich and Soup from Panera


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?


    Hometown: South Elgin, IL

    Bachelor's Degree:  Elementary Education

    Trinity International University, Deerfield, IL

  • Mrs. Jenny Wegner

    first grade teacher

    I was born in Milwaukee, WI and have lived in southeastern Wisconsin until my family moved to Stevens Point in 2015. My husband, Jim, is a teacher and principal. We have two sons, Tyler and Evan. Tyler is a student at Midstate Technical College and Evan is in middle school. I enjoy reading, baking/cooking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. I have attended and taught in Lutheran schools my entire life, and I have spent several years teaching preschool. It is such a privilege to be able to share my faith and the love of Jesus with my first grade students at Immanuel!


    If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?

    My mom's spaghetti...it is an old family recipe.


    What is your favorite childhood book?

    Corderoy


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    During the past couple years, some members of my extended family have experienced health issues.  The difficult part for me has been living two hours away from them, and not being able to see them as much.  However, God has continued to show His love for them and me, and in many cases we can see the good that has come out of the difficulties.  I believe it is through these times that we grow in our faith and relationships with each other and our Lord.


    Hometown: Milwaukee, WI

    Bachelor's of Arts Degree: Lutheran Elementary Education

    Minor: English

    Concordia University, Mequon, WI

  • Ms. Sandy Hoefling

    first 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.


    What is your favorite jelly bean flavor?

    My favorite flavor of jelly bean is cherry. I buy a bag of jelly beans and eat all of the cherry ones. Then I put the rest in a bowl for everybody else. I do NOT like strawberry.


    What do you miss from your childhood?

    I miss knowing everybody in the neighborhood. 


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    I have had lots of changes in my life - relationships, marriage, location, births and deaths. Jesus is the only thing that hasn't changed.

  • Mrs. Sharon Dykstra

    second grade teacher

    I was born September 24th and enjoyed my childhood days 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 a BA in Elementary Education. My first teaching call brought me here to teach first grade and since then I have taught second, third, and a bit of upper grades. I met and married my husband, Mark, and we were blessed with three sons, Keith, Kevin, and Steven.


    If you came into a significant amount of money, what is the first thing you would do?

    From a realistic point of view I guess it would be to help our children pay off their college student loans (again...where we are at in life. Kids going back to college, buying books, thinking about advanced schooling....) . I also would like to see the new church built so a chunk would go towards that. In a humorous tone....let Mark decide; ask him, he's the financial person in our house.


    What is your favorite zoo animal?

    A bear of any kind.  I used to collect teddy bears.


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?


    Hometown: Des Plaines, IL

    Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education, Concordia University, River Forest, IL Concentration: Early Childhood and Math

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 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!


    What TV show do you remember watching as a child?

    The Love Boat and Fantasy Island on Saturday nights while my mom put curlers in my hair for church the next day.


    What 3 songs are included on the soundtrack to your life?

    This probably changes for me from day to day, but right now I would say the following:

    In the Hands of God by Newsboys

    As Time Goes By by Jimmy Durante

    Blessed by Martina McBride


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    My most recent change is actually the class I have this year.  I am still teaching 3rd grade (same as last year) but the children are obviously different.  This group challenges me in an entirely different way and brings a different set of needs than the class did last year.  I find that even though I am facing different circumstances, my God is so big, so strong and so mighty there's still nothing He can't do.  He never changes and brings me exactly what I need, when I need it.


    Hometown: Island Lake, IL

    Bachelor's Degree: Early Childhood Education, Concordia University, River Forest, IL Concentration: Psychology

  • Mrs. Wendy Betts

    third grade co-teacher

    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 third 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.


    If you could go back in time, to what year/era would you travel?

    I wouldn't mind going back to a simpler time...just as long as it isn't before inventions such as electricity and indoor plumbing. 


    When are you most aware of God's presence in your life?

    I am most aware of God's presence in my life when I see His answer to my prayers...especially those involving my 3 children at home or my kiddos at school.


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    This year the biggest change is my life is that 2 of my 3 children left home to go to college.  I really miss not having them at home and seeing them everyday, however God is with me every moment of every day.  I know that He is with each of my family members too.  He helps each of us adjust, grow smarter, and grow closer to Him.  Even though we can't be together everyday, God stills gives us opportunities to be together as a family.  God assures me that we still love each other and will see each other.  God also assures me that He has always and will always love me and be with me.


    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. Cara Lee

    fourth grade 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.


    Do you prefer fruits or vegetables or love them both? Which fruit or vegetable is your favorite?

    I love them both! I would say my favorite fruit is banana, however, I love avocados and technically they are a fruit. My favorite vegetable is a cucumber.


    Would you rather be able to run incredibly fast or jump incredibly high? Why?

    I'd rather be able to jump incredibly high. I'm imagining being able to leap tall buildings (or at least land on the roof), I could jump from rock to rock while climbing a cliff/mountain. Being able to jump to high places I imagine being able to see and appreciate some magnificent views!


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    This last year I completed the Reading Teacher Program through UW-Stout. As a full-time teacher with 2 children, this was a very challenging task. There were times that I questioned whether or not I would be able to finish. I wouldn't have if I was doing it alone, but God was there with me every step of the way. Through Him I can do all things. And as I face the challenges the new school year brings, I know that God will always be with me.


    Hometown: Wisconsin Rapids, WI

    Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education, University of Wisconsin, Superior

    Minor: Social Studies

  • 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.


    What 3 songs are included on the soundtrack of your life?

    I Hope You Dance, Knee Deep, What a Friend We Have in Jesus


    What is the best place you have ever visited and why?

    The Apostle Islands - They are breathtakingly beautiful, full of adventurous opportunities, and they are not too far from home.


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    Over the past year I was married, and my husband, Devin, and I bought a house. A lot of exciting changes with a few challenges, but God is there guiding us through it all.


    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 excited to be teaching in the northwoods after my time at Concordia University Wisconsin. I feel blessed to be a part of the Immanuel family, serving as the 6th grade homeroom and 6-8th English Language Arts teacher. I am overwhelmed with joy for the opportunity to share my passion for learning and Christ with my students. When I'm not in the classroom, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, weekends tent camping, Netflix marathons, and watching the Brewers/Packers.

     

    What are your ten favorite foods?

    Pizza, Eggs Benedict, Onion Rings, Nutella (on anything), Strawberries, Macaroni & Cheese, Spaghetti & Meatballs, Jimmy John’s turkey sub, Coffee, and did I say Pizza?!

     

    What's the #1 most played song on your iPod/phone/CD, etc? 

    “Me Too” – Meghan Trainor

     

    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    Since my time at college, my life has been full of changes: new job, new city, new apartment, and most recently, new hair dresser. Each school year at Immanuel, I am blessed with a classroom full of new students and new classes to teach. What a comfort it is to know that through all the turbulence, confusion, and stress of life's changes, Jesus stays the same! The promise of his love, forgiveness, and grace will forever be a constant in my life.


    Hometown: Wausau, WI

    Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education, Double Minor in English and Science, Concordia University, Mequon, WI

  • Mrs. Lynnette Hansen

    seventh and eighth grade homeroom teacher

    I was born and raised in Janesville, WI. I attended Concordia - WI for both my Bachelor's and my Master's degrees. I am forever thankful to Jesus for saving me and for making me His child, and I strive to pass on that love to my students every day. I am married to my wonderful husband, Quinn, and have two beautiful children, Trisha and Lucas. I also enjoy coaching volleyball and track during the school year. When I am not teaching and coaching, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, playing ultimate frisbee, reading, and catching up on some of my favorite shows. I also enjoy cheering for the Wisconsin Badgers, Packers, and Brewers. 


    What is your personal purpose statement?

    God is leading me to teach my students and my own children about Him, to guide them towards Him, and help them understand what His purpose for them is in their lives.


    If you were stranded on a desert island, what 3 things would you like to have along?

    Matches/flint, a supply of food staples, and a machete.


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    In the last couple of years, I have had to adjust to having a dual class (7th AND 8th grades) in the same homeroom. Although it is a fair number of students, it is still a change from having all of the students be in the same grade level. It has been a blessing and a challenge as the students learn how to work together, adjust to one another, and learn to respect everyone around them. Through all of this change, I am always able to come back to the fact that Jesus doesn't change, that He is always with us no matter where we going and what changes in our lives, and that He has these children in the palm of His hand. What a Friend we have in Jesus! 


    Hometown: Janesville, WI

    Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education, Double Minor in Math and Language Arts, Concordia University, WI

    Master's Degree: Educational Technology, Concordia University, Mequon, WI

Other Support Staff

  • Mr. Robert Judziewicz

    7th grade pre-algebra, physical education and recess supervisor

    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. 


    What do you miss from your childhood?

    I miss Stretch Armstrong.


    What are your ten favorite foods?

    Chicken bacon subs, BBQ chicken pizza, Steak, Shrimp, Tacos, Brats, Italians, Mustard potato salad, Bread and butter pickles, Cheese


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?


    Hometown: Greenfield, WI

    UWSP: PE, Health, and APE

  • Mrs. Ruth Macomber

    art teacher

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


    What if your favorite childhood book?

    "Little House on the Prairie" Series by Laura Ingalls Wilder


    What is your favorite flavor of jelly beans?

    Buttered Popcorn


    If you could master one skill you don't have right now, what would it be?

    Owning and Managing a National League Baseball Team


    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

  • Mr. David Benson

    a.m. and p.m. cougar kids

    If you could speak another language, which one would it be and why? 

    If I could speak another language, I would like to speak Spanish. I would like to speak Spanish because it is pretty common and I would like to visit Spanish speaking countries and be able to communicate with people. 


    Would you prefer to go horse back riding, water skiing, or zip lining? Why? 

    I would rather go Water Skiing because I love being out on the water and I have grown up water skiing.



    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?



    Hometown: St. Paul, MN

    Any Degrees: AA, Working on BA

  • Mrs. Rebekah Drewiske

    scrip coordinator

    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.


    If you could witness any event in the past, present, or future what would it be and why? 

    I would like to witness the baptism of all of my grandchildren...seeing my own children pass down their Christian heritage to their own offspring would be an amazing legacy to be able to witness.


    If you could speak another language, which one would it be and why? 

    All of them! Then I would be able to tell anyone about Jesus without any language barriers.


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    Our oldest child is going to a new school for the first time in 9 years. It is daunting to change and do something new, to learn a new routine, to figure out a new system, to learn a new sport along with her, but God through this all is still the same. I can still find Him in all the same places He has been. He is still my Rock, Fortress, and Savior...even though we age and our kids move on, God will ALWAYS be the same!!



    Hometown: Lansing, MI

    Bachelor's in Education from Concordia University River Forest

  • 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.


    Where do you want to retire?

    Wherever my family is at the time.


    What is your favorite grab and go meal?

    A chicken sandwich


    Those that know you best, what would they say about you?

    In the words of my daughter...caring, clever, and creative.


    Hometown: Waterford, Ontario, Canada

  • Mrs. Deb Fillmore

    hot lunch bookkeeper

    My husband Matt and I have been married for 18 years and we have two children and a kitty named Holly. Kyle is a freshman at UW Stoutand Morgan is in 9th grade at East Junior 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 4th 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, watching Survivor and playing games on Wednesday's for Fillmore Family Fun Night.


    Would you rather be able to run incredibly fast or jump incredibly high? Why?

    I would rather run incredibly fast because it seems like I am always about 5 minutes behind schedule so this way maybe I could catch up.


    What 3 songs are included on the soundtrack of your life?

    You Are My Sunshine

    Jesus Take the Wheel

    Uptown Funk


    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?

    The biggest change for us has been sending our son to college. It's been an adjustment, especially not seeing him everyday. We know his values and his faith in Christ, that he has learned from Immanuel School and Church, have given him the tools to be successful at school and in life.


    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.


    Who/What is your favorite storybook character?

    I don't really have a favorite, but my favorite books growing up were Nancy Drew books. I loved trying to figure out who did it before they revealed it.



    What is something that may have recently changed in your life, and how has God shown you, through that experience, how He never changes?



    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


  • Judy Papineau

    hot lunch assistant