Recently State Rep. Scott Newcomer wrote a guest opinion in another publication which was titled:  "Wisconsin’s school systems should teach money management."  Scott used April, which is recognized as Financial Literacy Awareness Month, as the springboard highlighting the need to raise financial understanding through the school systems.

Well written, his column acknowledges the need for (and lack of)  parental advice in these matters. It goes on to state "less than half of college students polled said their parents made a conscientious effort to teach them.I find it inconceivable that such a vital topic is left out of the school system and placed solely in the hands of the public. As parents, many of us often times find ourselves puzzled by the task of assisting in our children’s math or science homework. Despite this truth, the majority of college students cite parents as their primary source of information on money management, yet less than a quarter of them feel prepared for the financial challenges awaiting them. This illustrates the fact that additional education from schools is needed in order to improve the quality of the information flowing in the public sphere."   "...I feel that each individual school district, if it is not already doing so, should strive to implement financial education requirements."

Please stop there!   Yes!  -  Yes!  -   NO!

YES - Rep. Newcomer is correct that there is a need for better understanding of financial matters for our youth. Issues grow more complex daily and the financial challenges and machinations facing this generation are significant. Simply - there is much to learn and little done about it.

YES - Rep. Newcomer is correct in calling attention to the frustrating stats which reflect that only a minority of college students feel prepared for the oncoming financial challenges. The grim realities are that parents do not have a "warm and fuzzy" when working with their own children in these areas. The best teaching tools would be a family's own finances, but many parents truly do not want their offspring delving too deep into their checkbook, investments, credit card obligations, etc.. No further explanation is needed for most parents...

 NO! - Rep. Newcomer is absolutely incorrect in his thoughts that each school district should strive  to implement financial requirements! While I totally agree on the need for basic training in finances, I challenge Rep. Newcomer on where the responsibility lies. Every news publication in this State has weekly articles, stories, letters to the editor, and more which bring into laser-like focus the core issue - The State Education System is broke! The current funding formula demands cuts and improvisations to school budgets across the State!  Waukesha has been particularly hard-hit for many years, and there are no "Bright Tomorrows" on the horizon here.

The breakdown between Scott and myself occurs because... These Districts cannot currently fund the State mandates for education! The very last thing on the agenda for most districts these days is adding curriculum at additional costs. Heck - I favor many areas where I believe education in the early years will pay dividends for our youth for years to come: Renewed second language emphasis; expanded tech-ed offerings (the building trades are worried about the coming years); basic home computer maintenance; career planning; current world politics; and the list goes on...

The chasm in thought processes between us is succinctly demonstrative of the issues we as constituents and voters face with many of our State representatives. Unfunded State mandates to school districts are a major contributing factor to many school budget dilemmas. Now we have, in a very deft pen-stroke, a local State Rep doing more of the same. His identification of the need is good: His avoidance of taking a leadership position at the State level to get it fixed is sad. And finally, his "challenge" to the Districts to implement these courses is a classic "Red Herring"  technique of misdirection...

Truly, we deserve (and desperately need) better from our local elected officials in Madison. Maybe early "Financial Literacy" classes would have helped them...

As Chair of the Waukesha Education Foundation Board of Directors, I process a fair amount of correspondence, work with donors and grant recipients, and look for ways to reach-out to our Community. This week, during the planning for this year’s 3’rd Annual ”Celebration of Excellence”, a letter and plastic sandwich bag of money were handed to me. The letter follows:

Dear Mr. Walt,
My name is Emma Langer. This year I had a yard sale. Caroline (my friend) and I painted rocks, pots, made picture frames, coasters, bracelets, cookies, lemonade, and more! Most of these things were handmade.
I made $46.71 in three days.
Last year I donated my money to Children’s Hospital. This year I want to donate my money to the Waukesha Education Foundation because I wanted the money to go to all the schools. I go to Rose Glen Elementary School… and would like to share with other schools.
Thank you so much for donating to schools throughout Waukesha!
From,
Emma Langer (age 9 – “soon to be 4th grader”)

My reply:

Dear Emma,
Thank you for your fund-raising efforts for your fellow Waukesha students! The money you and your friend Caroline raised will be used wisely to make our schools a “little more special” for someone else.
In addition, both of you should know that your spending important days-off from school this Summer painting rocks, making picture frames, selling lemonade, and other activities have reached out to a “special place” in my heart. Both I and the Waukesha Community are very lucky to have kind, caring, thoughtful, and considerate kids such as yourself and Caroline helping those around you.
Thank you for being so special and reminding many of us that “giving” can come in many forms.
Your friend,
Jay Walt – WEF Board Chair

…We can all learn from Emma and Caroline…

“Goodbyes” are often bittersweet - The pleasure of having enjoyed each other’s company balanced against leaving and the uncertainty of when you will meet again. In the School Community, teachers, principals, parents and students experience these “goodbyes” at the end of the school year. This years’ goodbyes at the Pleasant Hill Elementary School will be particularly emotional.

First, a little background... Our family’s introduction to the Waukesha School District began with a Pleasant Hill school tour 18 years ago. My wife and I were evaluating where to enroll our most precious household commodities and our initial Pleasant Hill impressions hold to this day – A caring, compassionate, personal, dedicated, and great family atmosphere awaited us. It was one of the best early parenting decisions we made. Today my kids are a reflection of the educational start they received at this wonderful school. They experienced “life’s lessons” on a daily basis.

Clinically speaking, this year will be classified as a “transitional year” for the school: New hires including a new principal, several new teachers, and fresh approaches to educating next years’ students. On a personal level, we will be saying goodbyes to several people who ultimately became friends and partners entrusted with molding and preparing our children for their education journey.

And while the vacated teaching positions will be filled, these people could never be “replaced”: Ms’s. Kathy Hillyer, Gail Gaffney, Mary Fredericks, and Robyn Havican. Your passion for our children’s education will be reflected in the successes for entire generations of Pleasant Hill graduates.

A special thank you is extended to the retiring principal, Mrs. Joy Smogor. Where have the years gone…Joy joined this tight-knit community in the early 90’s. It was her first and only principal experience. I was a PTO VP at that time, and I clearly remember our introduction at a Chancery summer lunch. She voiced her personal concerns about joining and leading a staff that was this tightly-knit. Her reservations and openness were refreshingly candid. The “proof is in the pudding” – staff turnover was almost non-existent; family acceptance was immediate; and the educational process flourishes to this day. Joy, I think you can relax now; …the kids are doing fine…

My position as Chair of the Waukesha Education Foundation Board now provides introductions and insights to staff and administrators District-wide. By and large, the commitment and educational opportunities mirror those offered at Pleasant Hill. But you have to sit-up and take notice when the smallest school in the District; the school where the graduating student numbers will be diluted as ½ of the graduating students will eventually go to South and the rest to North; when this teeny little school then produces 9 out of the “Top 20” North 2007 graduating students cited for scholastic accomplishment. Clearly, something very special was instilled in these students with their early educational underpinnings at Pleasant Hill.

This year’s goodbyes at Pleasant Hill are accompanied with my heart-felt congratulations and best wishes to all moving forward. The school mission statement reads: ” We, the Pleasant Hill School Community, are dedicated to providing a quality education by developing well-rounded individuals, addressing their needs and challenging them to reach their full potential in our increasingly complex and technological world… Together we will encourage an appreciation for learning that will last a lifetime.”

Mission accomplished! On behalf of the hundreds of Pleasant Hill families who have been “touched by the magic” - Thank you!

“Pssssst….Did ya hear? …Waukesha School Superintendent David Schmidt didn’t get the Appleton job!”

Well, in case you were out of the Country or hermetically sealed in a box, it’s true: David Schmidt will remain in Waukesha – for now. But there will come a time when he retires, or departs for another job, or changes careers. And it’s not wrong to start thinking about that time now.

First: It would be helpful if the next Superintendent candidates cannot read. This would indirectly help the next person by limiting their exposure to criticism only via phone, email with pictures, radio, and word-of-mouth. The lack of volumes of other breaking, exciting, and earth-shattering news leads the press in Waukesha to seize any District shortcoming or mistake as the Superintendent’s fault. Oh, that’s right, we pay taxes, therefore we are their bosses and can, unlike most workplaces, say whatever we want.

Second: The next candidates would be of greater value to us if they are “Internet illiterate”. Ideally they would then, if coming from another area, not be “Googling” Waukesha to educate themselves in advance about the trials and tribulations of our School District. We wouldn’t want them scared-off! And the next candidate’s computer inadequacies would also help avoid future District email controversies…

Third: A biggie! Accept the fact that there is a very real probability that we don’t want the next person seeking the Waukesha Superintendent’s job. Seriously, who amongst us applies for a job with advance knowledge that the prospective company is in serious trouble? Why would it be any different with public education? We could very possibly end up with a sadist whose idea of job satisfaction is cutting budgets and employment; fighting union battles; and hearing (remember – Internet illiterate) from others that they are liars for “telling it like it is”.

Fourth: Don’t allow for travel time for the next Superintendent when they could listen to the car radio and hear the savage, ratings-driven talk radio pundits. These self-serving radio prophets have not found a rock without a greedy, wasteful, ignorant school district hiding under it.

Lastly: I would not want to follow in David Schmidt’s footsteps. David brought a vision to our Community which manifested itself in unprecedented changes and true progress for the students and staff of this District during the last 9 years. His compassion and leadership skills have been recognized beyond the District to include, amongst others, serving as Chairman of the Waukesha United Way last year. Mr. Schmidt’s tenure will be judged in retrospect much more favorably then today’s media piranhas would have you believe.

Now does all this mean we should be cringing when the need for the next School Superintendent arises? Not necessarily…The School Board hit a “Home-run” last time when they hired a virtual unknown and unproven Assistant Superintendent from Appleton. The sheer size of our District will be an attraction for candidates moving up. And, there truly are very good “potential talents” within our District right now.

Now, will someone please pass this on to any future prospective Superintendent candidates?

But give them a hard, printed copy because this is an electronic Blog, and we truly need them to be “Internet illiterate” to survive if things continue “as is”…

Three years ago, I invited Mr. Bob Smickley, CEO of MetalTek in Waukesha, to be the keynote speaker for the Waukesha Education Foundation kick-off breakfast. Bob is incredibly smart, well-versed on an array of issues, one of Waukesha’s largest employers, and his kids went through the Waukesha School District. Bob’s stern “warning” prior to acceptance was to be careful what you ask for, because his message on education “could” ruffle some feathers.

Bob discussed positives about and within the Waukesha District. He then went on to relate his attempts to donate computers to the District, and the ensuing red tape experienced as a result of his attempted generosity. His message that day was prescient: education was not business-friendly, and change was needed.

Fast forward to “today’s” Waukesha School District: Staffing cuts (60+), increased class sizes, program cuts, and prospects for more of the same next year. Opinions from the Community range from supportive to inquiring to critical to detached. Armchair strategists are offering their “fixes” for others to execute. The School Administration and Board look to the Community and the State for help…and there is none. So how do we citizens, taxpayers, business people and parents react, and what does this have to do with Bob Smickley’s presentation of three years ago?

Local change is needed! The core values of everyone’s right to a quality public education cannot go by the wayside on our watch! Seniors surviving on social security have as much a responsibility to our kid’s futures as we do to their monthly sustenance. Parents of students have to respect the needs of more than their own kids and work for widespread change and improvement. Businesses have a social responsibility to their Community beyond writing checks. Employers have to take an active interest in learning how they can get involved to ensure the workforce coming out of local schools mirrors their needs.

Change at the State level is critically past due! Unfunded mandates, a decrepit funding formula 14 years old, hard-core political divisiveness that thwarts discussion or compromise, and a “Bury my Head” approach from our local State representatives are all factors which preclude reasonable discourse and problem-solving. …And seriously, do we really want just the politicians and educators working on a fix for a problem of this magnitude?

Taxes are acknowledged as high. The State provides a lot of money to education, yet there are additional needs in the State. Referendums are short-term fixes, and the process for approval rips Communities apart. Everyone seems to have a “pet peeve” about some aspect of public education. Please accept the preceding and move to the next paragraph…

Responsible change is needed, and all shareholders must be at the table! Legislators, educators, businesses, unions, and parents all share responsibility towards finding a long-term solution. The problems are real, local, and immediate. Every one of these groups must be an active participant in ‘blowing-up” the current education-funding model and starting fresh. The prospects of failure should be somewhat self-evident.

To Bob Smickley: I agreed with you three years ago, and I now carry your message one step further – “Education” today needs to be user-friendly to all.

A recent March 11’th JS guest editorial/Community column by an MPS teacher ends with ”The parents of children in Waukesha are already likely to put up a fight when it comes to the education of their children. The focus should be on Milwaukee, where children have few advocates.”

To quote a popular TV commercial – “BRILLIANT!!”

The article is filled with hyperbole including his perspective that he would rate Waukesha at “about #148,203 on the list of districts in financial crisis.” The writer goes on about the dismal state of MPS facilities; the missing trophies in MPS schools from many “already-gone” sports; filthy bathrooms; and more. And he writes this because ” it is imperative that we fund public education to meet a basic minimum standard. But to start this fight among a population that is already very fortunate (Waukesha) is wrong.”

Again – “BRILLIANT!!”

(As an aside, I share some philosophical agreement with the writer that many of today’s students need advocates. I also agree that MPS is in deep trouble on many fronts.)

Ultimately, the writer, an MPS educator, states that MPS’s needs should come ahead of Waukesha’s. Obviously frustrated by MPS’s issues, he would have us believe cuts are “OK” out here because Waukesha has “well-lit halls and beautiful athletic facilities.” Wow…we should let Waukesha continue its’ losing battle against the QEO/Revenue Cap because the plight in Milwaukee is worse, much worse...

What a flawed perspective!

Waukesha is desperately fighting an apparently losing battle yearly for funding to maintain the status quo. There are many, many Waukesha constituents who chose this area for its’ high standards of public education. And we should now not complain and diligently fight to preserve this Waukesha tradition because Milwaukee is in worse shape? How sad, and how desperate…

The blueprint for basic education needs overhauling – immediately – at the State and Federal level. Our local Waukesha representatives have proven, time and again, their unwillingness to engage or even offer a mild solution for this incredibly pressing local issue. They have proven they are not, unlike years past, “statesmen and stateswomen”. They are solely concerned with the ever-electable “cutting taxes” issue (or Senior Bingo at Southridge…). Please remember, I don’t propose raising the tax rate; rather, it is strongly suggested the present funding formula and education model is truly broken and needs fixing. And if this crop of elected officials is not going to engage for the future of their own Community, it will be time for a change. In the “real” business world, when the boss (the constituents) demands an action plan, you, the employee (or elected official), attack the problem and provide an action plan! …Or you simply move on…

MPS teacher and editorialist – Work on positive solutions within your Community. You telling us “how good we have it out here” doesn’t sit real well right now as 62 more Waukesha educational positions were cut last week

Something has to change…

Education is in the news! And none of it is good news!

Depending on your perspective, it’s now obvious that “The schools will fail unless they get more funding”…or, “The schools get enough money – let them make do!”

The facts:
* Over 41% of the State’s money goes to education. That’s quite a bit.
*Local and State taxes are high and show signs of rising, albeit slowly.
*Critics will say teachers are overpaid and don’t pay enough for their benefits.
*Others will ignore current State laws, ignore facts, and ignore the plight of education today and preach from an uninformed position.
*Many, too many, will fence-sit and wait for others to deal with it.

Let’s all, for once, reflect & respect the other “side’s” position, take a moderate position and accept “they” might have a point! Moving forward, “together,” what’s the answer that we would accept in this new-found spirit of solidarity?

First: Is there a way to reduce the expense of education while still maintaining a quality product? Yes! The State would have to rewrite laws re: requirements for graduation. Students would be tested and targeted between freshman and sophomore years according to their strengths; math, the arts, sciences, etc.. Students would be moved into accelerated programs with a reduced load of “Gen-Eds”. Graduation from high school could be accomplished in 3-3 ½ years. School sizes would be reduced. And what would honestly be lost? Ask any post-high school student and ask if they, in reflection, could even name all the courses they took junior year much less what they got out of them.
(Writer’s Note: My kids have just come through this time. Ages 22, 20, 17)

Second: Why do people only attack "local" school districts while letting the State University and Technical System escape our review? They shouldn't! The same principle is applied where the first (2) years of “Gen-Eds” are reduced to (1) year. The intense programming related to one’s chosen major starts a year earlier and the students are now eligible for graduation that much sooner. Again - smaller schools. And that’s just the start…When did the “TA” abbreviation become synonymous for “Professor Totally Absent?” Make the professors, similar to the non-academic world, work a 40 hour workweek! (3) professors working 40 hour weeks would replace (4) working 30!

Third: Are there outside partnerships available to assist in this “Brave New World?” Absolutely! The private sector has been begging the schools for relevant workforce development. Jobs are going unfilled and countless dollars are spent “re-educating graduates”, high school and college. Dangle the potential of a more-focused, better trained student to business and business will come running. The potential here is unlimited – businesses will partner with education in a very big way if they can be assured they will get a “return on investment.” Unfortunately, current WI laws governing education requirements are not necessarily business friendly.

OK – It’s a simplistic concept and start. And it neglects the social aspects of education.

However - reduced requirements for “Gen-eds” results in smaller school sizes which means less staffing. Students studying courses they are actually interested in guarantees motivated students with a higher level of retained education after the course is over. In addition, professors and university administrators are long past-due to join the rest of us “plebeians” in (12) month employment with a high degree of accountability to your employer. A full workweek would immediately cut university staffing dramatically State-wide….And to you professors that don’t like this – “Quit” and then find your next 20-30 hour workweek/8-9 month job!
Business dollars will now join public funding for education. Most businesses will invest where they can maximize their returns. Programs for students that truly help businesses will be have infusions of capital and brainpower from the private sector. The earning cycle for our students will start that much earlier – and at a higher level!

Let’s try a unified, common sense, business approach to the ever-looming crisis for education-funding in Wisconsin. Engage business people to "fix" education - the local and State legislators have proven they certainly don't have the answers. We have ample warning that there is not enough money in coming years to sustain the current education model. If we start tomorrow, it will still take years to develop a model tailored for the needs present and funding available. Taxes are high, referendums bruise communities, and there is a finite amount of State dollars which will be available in the future.

Can we all, at least for a short while, agree and respect each other long enough to acknowledge that both sides truly do have valid points as well as valid criticisms?

In one of my other endeavors, I serve as Chair of the Waukesha Education Foundation (WEF).
The WEF raises money to give back to the District in grants, scholarships, and endowments. These funds can only be used for programs and opportunities outside of traditional education rigor. In short, the WEF accentuates the learning experiences for the students in the Waukesha School District.

As the WEF Chair, my proximity to the District often encourages comments from parents and other concerned parties about the extreme financial challenges confronting Waukesha schools. After explaining what the WEF can and cannot do, their follow-up questions mostly deal with "How bad is it really?" and "Why isn't anybody doing anything about it?"

Answer to question #1: It's bad...really bad! And unless something changes, almost immediately, it will have a compounding effect which will be felt by students, parents, teachers, area businesses (employers), real estate agents, and everyone else in the path of this ripple. Larger average size classes, continued cuts in staffing, elimination of "unneeded" (band, sports, drama, clubs, DECA) programs, and many more cuts are awaiting us in the upcoming years.
Alarmist opinion??!! No - Much more a realist approach!!

On to question #2: No one person can do anything about it! The basic State funding program (forged in the mid-90's) increases the amount of money for the District in lesser amounts then the District's costs increase. In this scenario, and in order to balance the budget, cuts must be made. One can argue where to cut costs including educator salaries and benefits, class size, get back to "readin', writin', and 'rithmetic," and many other theories. The facts are; Cuts are happening as you read this and every local, legal remedy is being considered by the Waukesha School Board.
In summary: "District funding is insufficient to maintain status quo, and there is nothing any one person can do!" There are opportunities for change available, but in all sincerity, it will take many to accomplish this.

Writing to Gov. Doyle is one avenue - but why stop there? He's 60 miles away in Madison. Get your local State Representatives attention - this is theirs and our "Ground Zero", and isn't this their official purpose anyhow - to represent us? And if they cleverly and conveniently push the blame off on Doyle, high taxes, Funding Formulas, the opposing political party, etc., ask for their "clear and concise" professional and personal opinion on what is occurring and what the effects will be if this problem continues? Simplistically raising taxes for Waukesha schools won't be the answer from any currently-elected officials, and it's truly not a good solution long-term.

Now is a very good time to get educated on the challenges of school funding today! There are workshops and listening sessions occurring. Visit one and learn more. If you sense and believe in the importance and urgency of what lies ahead, then maybe you too will engage. And ultimately the power of one has the potential to become the voice of many.

The Waukesha Northstars Players’ Production of “The Sting” has just completed a “standing-room only” run. Everyone involved has a right to be proud!

Casting, directing, acting and producing of this show is worthy of accolades from all. Drama Club Director/Coach/Instructor Nathan Berish has inspired the kids to soaring heights of achievement with their adaptation of this 1973 movie classic. Replacing Robert Redford with Aaron Klein in the role of “Hooker” and Ryan Shaw, “filling-in” for the Paul Newman part as Gondorf, brought believability to the North stage. The supporting cast were the perfect complement to bring the viewer back to Chicago in the 1930’s. 

 

But how does Nathan Berish do it??

 

How does he coordinate over 50 students over months of rehearsals? Where is “the hook” for these kids to stay focused for more than the typical high-schooler’s 6-7 minutes? What magic does Mr. Berish bring to motivate young adults to perform as seasoned veterans? And, in his first year at North, it’s inspirational to witness his “taking command” while maintaining an easy affability and congenial approach to bringing the best from these kids.  Kudos to Nathan Berish for his dedication and obvious motivational talent.

 

Note: The musical score is crucial to the “feel” of the production. Pianist Seth King-Gengler’s deft handing of the music was the punctuation point to this production. 

 

Our resident critic, mother-in-law Ginny, attended and demanded these kids (and Mr. Berish) receive recognition for their outstanding efforts! She left “Amazed by how well everyone worked together.”

 

I agree. Congratulations to all!

 

Let’s get this straight: A “missed-call” for school closings on a cold day (and the following day) brings out talk radio, letters to the editor, TV news reporters, senior citizens, parents, students ,and just about anyone else with an opinion on what “shoulda/coulda  been done…”  And the comments generally are mean-spirited, personal, emotional, confrontational, and second-guessing in nature.

People, get a grip on priorities!

Where is the news coverage of the financial budget challenges facing schools all across Wisconsin? Where is the public outrage at the school program cuts being reviewed right here/right now in Waukesha? Where are the immediate “solutions” to this from the lawmakers and naysayers? What are the doable “fixes” which respect fixed-income taxpayers while maintaining a quality level of education? Why are the school funding opponents and State lawmakers great at telling the public what’s wrong without offering a legal, timely, workable plan of salvaging education as we know it today?

My gosh…it’s easy for the critics to blame teachers and their benefits; administrators and their staff; maintenance budgets (remember when they used to do preventative maintenance?), curriculums that are unfunded mandates from the State and Federal Government (“No Child Left Behind” anyone?), the School Board for not making better decisions (there are no “right” decisions anymore), and so on. It’s also easy and convenient for critics to say “The schools get enough money”. Let them back that rationale up with their own plan for education which is legal, compliant with today’s funding realities, and addresses the needs of education both today and tomorrow.

The convenient truth is: The critics of school funding and State politicians are “talking the talk - not walking the walk” when it comes to finding answers to rising costs, responsible tax rates, and the need to educate our kids to a good standard. And that’s not sitting well these days. In fact…

…My kids will have completed their public education in Waukesha after this year. Yet I am reaching a slow boil over this issue and am choosing to go public with my anger! It is outrageous that our local State Representatives literally run from education issues because it could impact their “electability”... People are growing angry that these policy-making people won’t accept their responsibility to “fix” what’s broke at the State level thereby effectively hiding from it by blaming the “other party”, the teachers, the tax rate, their polls, etc… There is extreme frustration with the lack of bi-partisanship problem-solving for this long “overdue for overhaul” issue… We should shake our heads with personal disappointment that our regionally-elected State representatives put their own elected careers well ahead of the needs of the people who put them in office (remember Chvala, Jensen, Foti, Schultz?)…

Back to the underlying reason for these comments: Programs, staffing, teachers, extracurriculars, maintenance, and more are being reviewed “right now” for cuts in this year’s Waukesha School District budget with even bigger cuts due every year thereafter. There is an extreme urgency for public outcry as these cuts will… not could, will impact thousands of students every day – not for 1 or 2 days – but for years to come!

Politicians – Listen up!
We all want and need a responsible, conservative tax rate in Waukesha! (Duhhh…) School taxes are as big a part of the local tax rate as they will be for years to come. Accepting that, I am aghast that our elected State officials continue with the simplistic “Raise your money via referendum…” Great – recommend a process that has proven to turn “neighbor against neighbor” while keeping these politicians in Madis

 
The Sadie Hawkins Dance Night has arrived. Our daughter had her “group” over. The (8) seniors enjoyed dinner and stories after the hum-drum of perfunctory picture-taking. And now they are off to their second-to-last formalized school event before graduation.
It’s also my wife’s and my second-to-last event - the difference being that our run of events was quite a bit longer then our daughters’. We started “our” run (8) years ago with our oldest. A quick count shows our picture archive should have (35) different sets of pictures: Homecoming, Sadie’s, and Proms times (3) kids times (4) years with only the last prom to go.
Sometimes the same date shows up for multiple appearances – some “runs” were longer then others; often the faces changed as often as the Events; and the longest “same couple” series continues as our collegiate sophomore son is still dating the same sweet girl.
What about the dresses and sport coats they wore? Did we rent an offsite storage space to save these items – assumedly to give them back to the kids some day? Or is there a secret, very large closet lurking in my house where these clothes remain - hoping the styles (in the correct sizes?) come back some day?
Regardless, the lasting memories won’t be wrapped-up in the pictures (Who was that girl with Jordan at sophomore Homecoming anyhow?). And the dispersal of these “memorable, one-time” garments to the kids when they have room to store them will assuredly bring tears to my wife’s eyes as she realizes another phase of raising our kids has come and gone. And could I really remember back to where they had dinner at Homecoming 2001?
The memories started coming back to me tonight: The excitement of the girls looking for dresses with their Mom. Finding a sport coat that would fit my ever-growing son (4) weeks after we bought it. Secretive phone calls to the parents of the date to make sure the flowers matched the color of the dress or tux. Getting pictures printed the next morning (pre-digital era) so the kids could re-live the night the next morning. Post-prom sleepovers where we force-fed juice and breakfast to kids attempting to function on 2-3 hours sleep. Limos for (18) pulling into our cul-de-sac and then watching the guys get in before the girls. Dried flowers with petals falling off still hanging in corners of our basement from some long-forgotten time.
And now, after all the build-up, all of the anticipation, all of the hopes for “The Very Bestest Whatever Event ever”, it’s coming to an end… The kids have mostly forgotten most of the particulars of these events and they continue moving on. Amazing - they’re moving forward… and my mind and the memories are reflecting backwards.
Thanks, kids – thanks for the memories of your Homecomings, Sadie’s, and Proms.
 
 

 

Christmas arrived on December 22’nd this year.

Every year my family asks “What do you want for Christmas this year?” Every year I give the same ritualistic response: “Good kids”.

My wife received a call from the Waukesha North School Resource Officer, Terry Thieme. Officer Thieme related how our senior daughter, Caitlin, had been commended for turning in a “wad of money”. She found the money in a school hallway and, without disturbing or counting the money, turned it in to the Officer.

The bundle of money was $107! His call reflected on how a fellow student had reported the loss and was able to identify and get the money back. We were told the student had the money to pay for Christmas presents. We also received an email from the North H.S. Principal, Dr. Ryan Champeau, congratulating us on Caitlin's actions.

The Officer has a fund which rewards students for positive actions. He gave Caitlin $25. She rejected the reward because she was “just doing the right thing”. When pushed, she accepted the money and then promptly drove to the Elmbrook Humane Society where she donated it in the name of Waukesha North. (She has volunteered there over the years.)

Interestingly, Caitlin had not even found her actions worth mentioning at home…

It's rare when as parents you get concrete validation that your efforts and hopes are paying off. Our entire family is very proud of Caitlin from start to finish. Hers is a heart-warming story for the holidays, and I have to believe the student who lost the money has to be relieved.

Christmas came early this year to the Walt household, and I received everything I asked for and more – “Good…no…Great Kids!”

Leaving Carroll College’s Shattuck Hall after tremendous performances by the Waukesha North freshman/sophomore band; the Chamber Singers; and the junior/senior band, I was absolutely struck by the wonder of these presentations. The countless hours of private and group practice paid dividends for all in attendance.

And then the reality of leaving for Pasadena (our senior daughter, Caitlin, plays flute) in 2 weeks…Entertainment books, pocket peelers, candles, gift wrap, coffee – these kids sold almost everything that wasn’t nailed down. Parent meetings, student meetings, rehearsal upon rehearsal, marching in every parade – all those memories are now replaced with the building excitement of representing Wisconsin in the grand-daddy of all parades; The 2007 Rose Parade!

The Waukesha North Marching Band members raised almost $300,000 in just under a year to pay for the cost of this trip. Band directors Jim Doepke and Steve Fisher coordinated this Herculean effort and the payoff is right around the corner. These (2) incredible gentlemen bring a dedication to their work which extends far beyond the boundaries of the classroom. Their personal zeal and efforts have resulted in a “Trip of a Lifetime” for many of the students.

All of Waukesha should be proud. Proud of having Waukesha and Wisconsin’s “best” showcased in front of millions of worldwide tv viewers. Proud of the opportunities which exist within the Waukesha School District. Proud of these “Citizens of Tomorrow” as they march the 4 ½ mile parade route. Proud of the work it took for this Waukesha North Marching Band to be a part of the world-wide New Year’s Day Celebration.


…Now…Does anyone need a pocket peeler, candle, or some gift wrap? I still have some for sale…

On behalf of the WEF 'Celebration" Committee, we thank the entire Waukesha Community for their support in making this a rewarding and successful Event. Over 500 attendees bore witness to what makes Waukesha and its exemplary school district so very special.

Visitors engaged the students in the 'Hall of Excellence". The 40 student-staffed display booths brought the school pride and spirit of these kids to the forefront. Questions were answered and exhibits explained. Raffle tickets were offered by some while other student volunteers kept soda, water, and coffee glasses refreshed. The Lowell Elementary Choir and North HS Madrigal Singers provided dining entertainment. A combined "All-Star" Band from the high schools pushed all the right buttons with "Danny Boy" and "America the Beautiful".

During dinner, the student servers elicited compliments from all. These kids were engaging, polite, and attentive. These same kids who arrived early also ended-up staying late to help with clean-up. At day's end, over 330 Waukesha students of all ages volunteered their Sunday for the betterment of their schools.

The "Celebration of Excellence" is staged by the Waukesha Education Foundation to raise monies (and awareness) for grants and endowments. Last year's Event raised money which provided 14 grants to the schools. The success of this year's Event will allow for even more funding in the upcoming year. (Additional grant and WEF information is available at the WEF website.)

Thank you to the C.O.E. Committee; the many volunteers - young and "not so young"; the parents; the District teachers and administrators; the host South HS Staff; the Community donors/contributors; and, finally, a big thank you to our guests! Your generous outpouring of time and money will truly make a difference as our "students of today" evolve into our "leaders of tomorrow".

Jay and Colleen Walt, and Betsy Crosswaite - "Celebration" Co-Chairs

The Waukesha Education Foundation proudly congratulates the 2006 “Partners in Education”. These Partners will be honored at the WEF “Celebration of Excellence” which will be held at Waukesha South HS on Sunday November 5th from 3:30 - 8:00pm. Limited quantities of tickets are still available @ www.waukeshaeducationfoundation.org

WEF "Community Partner in Education” - Mr. Jim Doepke

Whether competing or just performing, the Waukesha H.S. Marching Bands possess an almost legendary aura and swagger when they take to the field. Jim Doepke is the person largely responsible for bringing this Wisconsin “secret” to the National stage.
Since his arrival at Waukesha North, his bands have entertained literally millions with performances at the 1989 Festival of States, the 1991 Fiesta Bowl, the Macy’s Parade (1999, 2004), the Milwaukee Circus Parades, the Tournament of Roses Parades (1995, 2002, 2007!), and many, many more. Countless regional appearances include the Grand Opening of Miller Park; Chicago; Madison; and the State Capitol, all of which have added to our Waukesha students’ educational experiences.
On a personal level (and always crediting others!), Jim has been recognized with a prestigious Northwestern University Summer Fellowship Program Award; the Herb Kohl Fellowship winner for outstanding teaching; as well as being the recipient of the 2006 National John Philip Sousa Bandworld Legion of Honor. The “Bugles Across America” program was brought to WI by Jim. The “Bugles” program matches high school students willing to perform “Taps” for the families of deceased veterans at Military Funerals and Services. And, quite possibly his favorite - look for Jim in the Miller Park left-field “Bucket-Head” section leading the crowds with his trumpet, enthusiasm, and usual fanfare.
Jim Doepke stands tall for his drive, vision, and proven ability to lead and inspire others. His students and this Community are better for it. He truly embodies the spirit of the WEF 2006 “Community Partner in Education” recognition.


WEF "Corporate Partner in Education” - Waukesha State Bank

Waukesha is a Community where a solid relationship between business and education “pays dividends” for both. Today we recognize Waukesha State Bank (WSB) for their partnership and continuing investments in our School Community.
Founded in 1944, the WSB has developed an outstanding legacy. Their associates pride themselves on their personal approach to business banking while maintaining an active interest in the community. This model has served them well. Today, Waukesha State Bank remains independently-owned and has now grown to (9) Waukesha County locations.
Surveys returned from the District to obtain examples of WSB giving flooded the WEF! The offering of Marketing Co-op positions; supplying resources to the schools’ Personal Financial Planning classes; establishing over 30 Business Occupations co-op opportunities; sponsoring WSB volunteers for Junior Achievement at the middle schools; providing pocket athletic schedules, personalized water bottles, school year calendars, tickets for and advertisements in school programs; sponsoring field house and stadium scoreboards - the list was almost endless. The President, Ty Taylor (Waukesha North grad), was still remembered and thanked for his presentation to Financial Planning Classes in 1997 and 1998. Truly their participation and largesse is legendary within the school walls.
These contributions have also impacted the careers and futures of numerous Waukesha students. As evidenced above, WSB investments in job-training, financial education, and employee participation for our youth far exceed the face-value of money in our Community.
Waukesha State Bank serves as a premier business model to all for their continued commitment to our school community. We applaud and recognize them today with the WEF 2006 “Corporate Partner in Education” honorarium.

Tickets are $50/person and can be ordered on-line @www.waukeshaeducationfoundation.org

Waukesha West Marching Cadets - 1’st Place AAAA State Champs!

Waukesha North Northstars - 2’nd Place AAAA

Waukesha South Blackshirts – 4’th Place AAAA

What a great weekend to be in Whitewater for the WSMA Marching Band Competition! And what a great weekend to be a “Waukesha” marching band fan! It was absolutely inspiring to see these kids adjust to a makeshift venue in the UW Fieldhouse and perform flawlessly. The kids played great and “hats off” to all for their dedication and hard work. The band directors are deserving of a bow for bringing that many musicians to their maximum potential.

FOOTBALL! Waukesha North overcomes a challenging season start to play West Bend in the WIAA playoffs. These athletes were on no one’s list this year, but they came together as a team to finish incredibly strong. A “Nice Job” to Coach Behrendt, his assistants, the faithful fans, and to all the kids who never lost faith.

WAUKESHA NORTH DEFEATS WEST BEND!...On to Brookfield

There is much more going on in many other venues…Save for another day…

“An incredible week in the French Countryside”

“A year of Time Warner DIGIPIC 4000”

“Waukesha Mayor for a Day”

“Bob Uecker autographed County Stadium Seat for 2”

“Miller Park Roof Tour for 8 with Brewer Tickets Included”

“Ken Reichert Original Painting - South High School”

These items and many more await you at the Waukesha Education Foundation (WEF)“Celebration of Excellence” on Sunday November 5’th. This year is shaping up to be a “doozy” with the fastest-pace, most gratifying evening planned for our guests.

On to the festivities!

AN ABSOLUTE FEAST partially sponsored courtesy of Ellen Zilli’s Catering. Incomparable food, impeccable china/silverware table settings, and that special “Zilli Magic” are awaiting all in attendance. Lori from Zilli’s has promised her Waukesha fans dining at it’s finest. Additionally, choral groups and table-roving Madrigal singers will lend just the right touch to this culinary delight!

MUSIC? You want music?? This will be your only chance to witness and experience the combined talents of all (3) of our award-winning High School Marching Bands as they encircle the seating area and “blow the roof off” of South High. And you don’t have to go to China (South HS - Spring ‘07) or the “Tournament of Roses Parade” (North - New year’s ’07) to hear them join West in a brilliant, stirring presentation.

HONORS! The WEF proudly salutes Waukesha North’s own Mr. Jim Doepke as the WEF Community Partner in Education. Jim has personally put the Waukesha Bands on the National map with Marching Band performances at the finest, highest profile venues in the land.
Waukesha State Bank, the 2006 Corporate Partner in Education, has generously touched thousands of Waukesha student’s lives with their donations of time and money. They truly embody the spirit of giving!

YOU COULD LEARN SOMETHING! The student-driven “Hall of Excellence” will showcase programs and accomplishments of kids of all ages. “Learn” from these exemplary children as many “work” their first trade show ever!

All this and more for $50/person!
WAIT! The $50/person isn’t really that much…Not when you realize your ticket price includes a $25 tax-deductible gift to the WEF. That, folks, is as good as it gets!

An evening of dining and entertainment, and a lifetime of memories await you. Call the WEF office at (262) 513-1861 or conveniently register on-line now. Contributions are always welcomed.

Time is slipping by - Act quickly - Act with compassion - All monies raised are used for grants and endowments for the Waukesha School District students.

Friday night…Waukesha North Stadium…Under the lights…Stands are packed…Waukesha West vs. Waukesha North…Let the game begin!

The damp, cool air hanging over the North Field greeted you as the teams entered. Everything was so …“High School”: Parent boosters selling school merchandise while others staffed the concession stands; kids mulling about hooking-up with “their group” as others crammed into the standing-room-only student section; a moment of silence for the National Anthem; and then the kickoff.

Players parents grouped together in the stands - living each down as if they were on the field; sharing each other’s anguish over a player’s mistake, or congratulating a mom or dad after a play where their son’s number and name is singled out over the stadium speakers. Marching band, cheerleader, pom squad, and alumni parents, siblings, and relatives enjoying the game while waiting for the half-time performances.

And the talk in the stands…”Is West 4-0 and North 0-4?... That #74 is a big kid… #16 is being recruited by Wisconsin…Can North hold the lead?...Who did they play last week?...How’s South this year?...What was that coach thinking?...Can North hang-on?...Wow-did you feel the power of the brass section?...Do you think West will adjust for the second half?...Who’s going with who to Homecoming?...Are you going to State for marching band?...Why don’t they move their secondary in?...They gotta cover that kid or he’ll kill us”…and finally: “The kids really played their hearts out - what a great game!”

And that’s really what it’s all about. Kids and parents understanding that ‘The Game” was the backdrop for bringing kids closer together; players played, cheerleaders cheered; poms danced; marching band wowed everyone; and the student section cheered as one. The parents enjoyed one another’s company and left with a “looking forward to next week’s game” feeling.

There is nothing more encompassing and more pure in amateur athletics then high school football. Fierce rivalries are renewed between schools. Schools win and lose as a “team”. School spirit and school pride are proudly on display. The embarrassment of mistakes and the exultant feeling of success provide the balance for an interaction that bridges age, gender, social and economic differences. Near-neighbor parents are brought a little closer together. And ultimately, when this many people are a part of something really special, the entire Waukesha Community gets …that…much…better!

For the record – Waukesha North jumped out to 21-0 lead. West battled back, scoring just before halftime making it 21-7. The Waukesha North Marching Band “owned” the crowd with a great halftime performance. West battled back superbly in the second half and was driving for the tying score as the game wound down. With seconds remaining, North intercepted in the West end zone.

Final score: Waukesha North 28 Waukesha West 20

The Waukesha Education Foundation (WEF) is bringing a “special magic” to the halls of Waukesha South High School November 5th. The “Magic” of the Celebration Of Excellence will be felt by all in attendance as good company, great food, musical wonders, and the best students in the land converge on the South Campus.

The Celebration is best summed-up as “By the Kids - For the Kids”. Students will be exhibiting in the “Hall of Excellence” with displays bringing their classroom accomplishments to the guests. Students will be volunteering their time as food and beverage servers, ticket sellers, registration greeters, and a host of other activities.

Have you ever been in the middle of a HS Marching band? How about being in the middle of 3 of the best bands in the whole State? Attend and you will be completely immersed in sound as the combined Waukesha Marching Bands blow the roof off of the field house!

Special recognition will be given to Mr. Jim Doepke from Waukesha North as the WEF Community Partner in Education, and Waukesha State Bank will be recognized as the Corporate Partner in Education for 2006.

The evening’s festivities will raise money and awareness of the WEF
and it’s mission to provide grants, scholarships, and endowments for the students in the Waukesha School District. Sponsors, donors, and attendees will have that great feeling that comes from seeing good kids doing good things.

Tickets will be going fast and are conveniently available, along with additional information, on the WEF site.

FOOTNOTE: The planning committee recently “sampled” the Event’s food from Ellen Zilli’s Catering, and they proudly proclaimed the menu selections as “The best of the best!”.

1,400 teachers, staff and administrators gathered at Waukesha South H.S. to kick-off the 2006-07 school year. In addition to catching-up on the “where did you go, what did you do, and how is the family”, there was a noticeable buzz in the field house until Superintendent David Schmidt brought everyone’s attention to the brass section from Waukesha North’s Marching Band. The Star Spangled Banner has a very special way of becoming the center of attention…

The tone was set early as the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Ms. Elizabeth Burmaster, commended everyone for their outstanding work. Mayor Larry Nelson was greeted with a standing ovation. His 30 years of teaching experience brought an understanding of his audience that an “outsider” could never hope to achieve. Mayor Larry’s words of thanks and his expressed support for education in Waukesha were welcome words from his heart to the assemblage.

The District honored corporate partners, and commended our School Board for their tireless, often thankless work on behalf of the 13,000+ students in the District. A guest speaker wrapped it all up with messages of hope and inspiration.

What struck me as special was the goodwill demonstrated before, during, and after the assembly. People were genuinely pleased to reacquaint and be a part of this. This sense of “community” was on display everywhere you turned.

In speaking with the Superintendent afterwards, Dave Schmidt professed this to be one of his favorite days of the school year; “The energy of this group is contagious, and you could feel the excitement of another school year building…”.
I agree wholeheartedly. Welcome back, Waukesha students - your teachers are recharged and ready to expand your universes.

Have a great school year!