Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow
Announcements: Friday, September 5, 2025
Today is a Day 2
Lunch for today - Choice 1: Cheese Pizza; Choice 2: Hot Dog with WG bun; Green Beans, Fresh Fruit Salad, Green Salad, Milk
From the School Office:
A ring and a necklace have been turned into the office, they were not found together. Please stop in and describe the item to claim it.
From the Kitchen:
Attention High School students who have Youth Apprenticeship or Modified Schedules. If you arrive at school after first hour and would like school lunch, please stop in the office to mark your choice on the daily lunch count sheet to ensure that enough food is prepared. Thank you!
From Mrs. Thompson:
Freshmen will have a class meeting during CAPstone in the LMC on today (Sept 5th) to vote on officers and as many items as we can get through. Check your email for agenda items.
From Mr. Klang:
There will be a Junior Class Meeting in Mr. Klang’s room during CAPstone Today, Sept. 5th.
From Mr. Klang:
Parents Night for the high school football team will be this today (Sept. 5th) when we host Hillsboro. Parents please be ready to meet your player near the North end zone at 6:40pm.
From Mrs. Ramsden:
On Monday September 8th at 12:03 we will have our first student Council meeting of the year. Grab your lunch, then join me in room 103 as I am excited to share all the fun happening this year. Don't forget your folders if you have one. Any questions before then contact Mrs. Ramsden. See you Monday!
Word of the Day: Furtively - sneaky or secretive - He glanced around furtively to see if anyone had noticed.
On This Day in History: September 5, 1946 Freddie Mercury was born. Freddie went on to become the lead singer for the band Queen and regularly displayed his four-octave vocal range performing many of their hits, notably Bohemian Rhapsody.
Notice:
We will continue to announce birthdays at the beginning of the school day; however, they will no longer be listed on the announcements that are sent to the general public.
Parents/guardians are informed of field trips via permission slips. Unlike an athletic event or music concert, field trips are not open invitations for the general public to attend. Therefore, as a safety precaution, field trips will no longer be listed on the calendar on the District's website.
Announcements: Friday, September 5, 2025
Today is a Day 2
Lunch for today - Choice 1: Cheese Pizza; Choice 2: Hot Dog with WG bun; Green Beans, Fresh Fruit Salad, Green Salad, Milk
From the School Office:
A ring and a necklace have been turned into the office, they were not found together. Please stop in and describe the item to claim it.
From the Kitchen:
Attention High School students who have Youth Apprenticeship or Modified Schedules. If you arrive at school after first hour and would like school lunch, please stop in the office to mark your choice on the daily lunch count sheet to ensure that enough food is prepared. Thank you!
From Mrs. Thompson:
Freshmen will have a class meeting during CAPstone in the LMC on today (Sept 5th) to vote on officers and as many items as we can get through. Check your email for agenda items.
From Mr. Klang:
There will be a Junior Class Meeting in Mr. Klang’s room during CAPstone Today, Sept. 5th.
From Mr. Klang:
Parents Night for the high school football team will be this today (Sept. 5th) when we host Hillsboro. Parents please be ready to meet your player near the North end zone at 6:40pm.
From Mrs. Ramsden:
On Monday September 8th at 12:03 we will have our first student Council meeting of the year. Grab your lunch, then join me in room 103 as I am excited to share all the fun happening this year. Don't forget your folders if you have one. Any questions before then contact Mrs. Ramsden. See you Monday!
Word of the Day: Furtively - sneaky or secretive - He glanced around furtively to see if anyone had noticed.
On This Day in History: September 5, 1946 Freddie Mercury was born. Freddie went on to become the lead singer for the band Queen and regularly displayed his four-octave vocal range performing many of their hits, notably Bohemian Rhapsody.
Notice:
We will continue to announce birthdays at the beginning of the school day; however, they will no longer be listed on the announcements that are sent to the general public.
Parents/guardians are informed of field trips via permission slips. Unlike an athletic event or music concert, field trips are not open invitations for the general public to attend. Therefore, as a safety precaution, field trips will no longer be listed on the calendar on the District's website.
This is US!
My name is Laura Kauffman. I was born and raised in Richland Center. I graduated from Edgewood College in 2001. I married my wonderful husband, Freeman, in 2011 and we have 10 year old twin boys. We also have a very spoiled dog named Shadow. This is my third year at Ithaca as the high school Cross Categorical teacher.
My name is Laura Kauffman. I was born and raised in Richland Center. I graduated from Edgewood College in 2001. I married my wonderful husband, Freeman, in 2011 and we have 10 year old twin boys. We also have a very spoiled dog named Shadow. This is my third year at Ithaca as the high school Cross Categorical teacher.
We would like to welcome Sarah Dilley BACK to Ithaca, and are excited about her new role as Elementary School Principal at Ithaca.
Here is some background info directly from Mrs. Dilley.
"My journey in education began 25 years ago, fueled by a deep love for children and a passion for helping them grow—not just academically, but as whole individuals.
Over the years, I’ve worn many hats: paraprofessional, classroom teacher, interventionist, special education teacher, and alternate administrator. Each role has taught me something valuable and shaped the way I lead and support others today.
I spent seven incredibly meaningful years teaching at Ithaca, and the sense of community and school culture there left a lasting impression on me. I’m so grateful for all the amazing colleagues, families, and students who helped shape my path.
What led me into education was my love for kids. What led me into leadership was my desire to support teachers, build strong teams, and create a positive, thriving school environment for everyone.
I’m truly excited for this next chapter—to build on the great work already happening and to work side-by-side with a passionate group of educators, families, and students to help every learner shine.
Here’s to a year filled with growth, collaboration, and meaningful impact!"
Please say HELLO and welcome Mrs. Dilley!
Let's welcome Mr. Brandon Fetterly, Ithaca High School and Middle School Principal, with a post in his own words.
"My background is that I taught math and a little science (old habits die hard) at Ithaca for two years. Prior to Ithaca, I had a number of roles at UW-Richland from 2005 ranging from teaching Chemistry, Mathematics, and Natural Resources courses, serving in Student Services, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, and Dean. I enjoyed having Ithaca students in class. The way graduates spoke of this place brought me here. I have been welcomed as part of the Ithaca family since day one.
Although I did not graduate from Ithaca, I was also a Bulldog in high school. I do appreciate the patriotism of the royal blue and white Peshtigo Bulldogs, there is something regal about purple."
We look forward to the new year and we welcome Mr. Fetterly to his new role at Ithaca.
"My background is that I taught math and a little science (old habits die hard) at Ithaca for two years. Prior to Ithaca, I had a number of roles at UW-Richland from 2005 ranging from teaching Chemistry, Mathematics, and Natural Resources courses, serving in Student Services, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, and Dean. I enjoyed having Ithaca students in class. The way graduates spoke of this place brought me here. I have been welcomed as part of the Ithaca family since day one.
Although I did not graduate from Ithaca, I was also a Bulldog in high school. I do appreciate the patriotism of the royal blue and white Peshtigo Bulldogs, there is something regal about purple."
We look forward to the new year and we welcome Mr. Fetterly to his new role at Ithaca.
This is US!
Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow
Announcements: Thursday, September 4, 2025
Today is a Day 1
Lunch for today - Choice 1: Sloppy Joes; Choice 2: Hot Dog with WG bun; Corn, Potato Wedges, Fresh Fruit Salad, Fresh Green Salad, Milk
From Mrs. Stellner, Ms. Ernzen, and Mrs. Pluemer:
Sources of Strength will kick off the year with our first meeting in the LMC during CAPstone today, Sept. 4th.
From Mrs. Thompson:
Freshmen will have a class meeting during CAPstone in the LMC on Friday, Sept 5th to vote on officers and as many items as we can get through. Check your email for agenda items.
From Mr. Klang:
Parents Night for the high school football team will be this Friday (Sept. 5th) when we host Hillsboro. Parents please be ready to meet your player near the North end zone at 6:40pm.
Word of the Day:
Verbose: using or containing too many words - The verbose article contained more detail than was necessary.
On This Day in History: September 4, 1888 George Eastman patented the Kodak camera and within one year more than 5,000 cameras had been purchased.
Notice:
We will continue to announce birthdays at the beginning of the school day; however, they will no longer be listed on the announcements that are sent to the general public.
Parents/guardians are informed of field trips via permission slips. Unlike an athletic event or music concert, field trips are not open invitations for the general public to attend. Therefore, as a safety precaution, field trips will no longer be listed on the calendar on the District's website.
Announcements: Thursday, September 4, 2025
Today is a Day 1
Lunch for today - Choice 1: Sloppy Joes; Choice 2: Hot Dog with WG bun; Corn, Potato Wedges, Fresh Fruit Salad, Fresh Green Salad, Milk
From Mrs. Stellner, Ms. Ernzen, and Mrs. Pluemer:
Sources of Strength will kick off the year with our first meeting in the LMC during CAPstone today, Sept. 4th.
From Mrs. Thompson:
Freshmen will have a class meeting during CAPstone in the LMC on Friday, Sept 5th to vote on officers and as many items as we can get through. Check your email for agenda items.
From Mr. Klang:
Parents Night for the high school football team will be this Friday (Sept. 5th) when we host Hillsboro. Parents please be ready to meet your player near the North end zone at 6:40pm.
Word of the Day:
Verbose: using or containing too many words - The verbose article contained more detail than was necessary.
On This Day in History: September 4, 1888 George Eastman patented the Kodak camera and within one year more than 5,000 cameras had been purchased.
Notice:
We will continue to announce birthdays at the beginning of the school day; however, they will no longer be listed on the announcements that are sent to the general public.
Parents/guardians are informed of field trips via permission slips. Unlike an athletic event or music concert, field trips are not open invitations for the general public to attend. Therefore, as a safety precaution, field trips will no longer be listed on the calendar on the District's website.
We now welcome Dr. Clair Fedderly, Ithaca District Administrator, in her own words:
"I grew up in Wonewoc and loved being in a small, rural community where everyone knows everyone and you always have someone you can ask for help or share your extra garden zucchinis with.
I attended UW Platteville for my undergrad so I could keep those same small-town vibes going and loved my time on the campus. I earned my masters from UW Oshkosh with a local CESA 3 cohort and then my doctorate with Edgewood College in a cohort model as well. It is important to me to learn alongside others that I can form friendships with.
For work, I was a high school/phy ed teacher at WI Dells High School and then became the high school English department for Weston School District. I adored my time at Weston, but the constant overturn of leadership pushed me to pursue administrational licenses. I have every license WI DPI offers because I know in a small, rural school you need to wear multiple hats and I want to be someone that can pick up the hats needed to best serve students and staff. I then worked for CESA 5 as the Reading and Curriculum Specialist and enjoyed working with 35 different districts very much. Unfortunately, family situations brought me closer to home, leading me to the School District of Reedsburg. I truly enjoyed my time there – they put all my "hats" to good use! At one point, I think I had an office in every building, and yes, I even subbed for a freshman English class during COVID. I guess you could say I have a helper's heart and a pragmatic mind, and I can't wait to put them both to full use right here in Ithaca.
At home, it's a lively circus! My 12-year-old son and 10-year-old daughter keep me on my toes. My amazing husband, who shares my love for community, just retired from the fire department (cue the date nights where he doesn't leave in the middle of a movie!). We've got the sweetest 5-year-old rescue dog, and just last month, my daughter's prayers were answered when we found a kitten in the road. We're still figuring out that new family dynamic – never a dull moment at the Fedderly house!
I love to read and run, so to some I might not seem very fun--- ha! But I completed an ultramarathon (50K) last fall and usually can get 50 books in a year, so it is clearly fun to me.
What do I look forward to at Ithaca?
All of it! The strong community culture is what drew me here and I am excited to prove myself worthy of the Bulldog family.
I am honored to be selected for this role. I am a servant leader and looking forward to learning how I can best use my skills to serve the students and staff of Ithaca well."
When you see Dr Fedderly, be sure to stop by and say HELLO and welcome her to the Ithaca Family!
"I grew up in Wonewoc and loved being in a small, rural community where everyone knows everyone and you always have someone you can ask for help or share your extra garden zucchinis with.
I attended UW Platteville for my undergrad so I could keep those same small-town vibes going and loved my time on the campus. I earned my masters from UW Oshkosh with a local CESA 3 cohort and then my doctorate with Edgewood College in a cohort model as well. It is important to me to learn alongside others that I can form friendships with.
For work, I was a high school/phy ed teacher at WI Dells High School and then became the high school English department for Weston School District. I adored my time at Weston, but the constant overturn of leadership pushed me to pursue administrational licenses. I have every license WI DPI offers because I know in a small, rural school you need to wear multiple hats and I want to be someone that can pick up the hats needed to best serve students and staff. I then worked for CESA 5 as the Reading and Curriculum Specialist and enjoyed working with 35 different districts very much. Unfortunately, family situations brought me closer to home, leading me to the School District of Reedsburg. I truly enjoyed my time there – they put all my "hats" to good use! At one point, I think I had an office in every building, and yes, I even subbed for a freshman English class during COVID. I guess you could say I have a helper's heart and a pragmatic mind, and I can't wait to put them both to full use right here in Ithaca.
At home, it's a lively circus! My 12-year-old son and 10-year-old daughter keep me on my toes. My amazing husband, who shares my love for community, just retired from the fire department (cue the date nights where he doesn't leave in the middle of a movie!). We've got the sweetest 5-year-old rescue dog, and just last month, my daughter's prayers were answered when we found a kitten in the road. We're still figuring out that new family dynamic – never a dull moment at the Fedderly house!
I love to read and run, so to some I might not seem very fun--- ha! But I completed an ultramarathon (50K) last fall and usually can get 50 books in a year, so it is clearly fun to me.
What do I look forward to at Ithaca?
All of it! The strong community culture is what drew me here and I am excited to prove myself worthy of the Bulldog family.
I am honored to be selected for this role. I am a servant leader and looking forward to learning how I can best use my skills to serve the students and staff of Ithaca well."
When you see Dr Fedderly, be sure to stop by and say HELLO and welcome her to the Ithaca Family!
Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow
Announcements: Wednesday, September 3, 2025
Today is a Day 2
Lunch for today - Choice 1: Chicken Drummies; Choice 2: Hot Dog with WG bun; Sidewinder fries, Cucumbers, Watermelon, Cantaloupe, Fresh Green Salad, Milk
From Mr. Nee and Ms.Sprecher:
The Sophomore class will meet on Wednesday, Sept. 3 at CAPstone in Mr. Nee’s room.
From Mr. Klang:
There will be a Junior Class Meeting in Mr. Klang’s room during CAPstone today, Sept. 3rd.
From Mrs. Thompson:
There will be a Freshman Class meeting in the LMC during CAPstone today, Sept. 3rd.
Word of the Day:
Trivial: having little value or importance - The friends often argued over trivial things.
On This Day in History:
September 3, 1928 Sir Alexander Fleming noticed that mold that had fallen on a culture killed the bacteria and he went on to study and introduce penicillin to the medical community as a cure for bacterial infections.
Notice:
We will continue to announce birthdays at the beginning of the school day; however, they will no longer be listed on the announcements that are sent to the general public.
Parents/guardians are informed of field trips via permission slips. Unlike an athletic event or music concert, field trips are not open invitations for the general public to attend. Therefore, as a safety precaution, field trips will no longer be listed on the calendar on the District's website.
Announcements: Wednesday, September 3, 2025
Today is a Day 2
Lunch for today - Choice 1: Chicken Drummies; Choice 2: Hot Dog with WG bun; Sidewinder fries, Cucumbers, Watermelon, Cantaloupe, Fresh Green Salad, Milk
From Mr. Nee and Ms.Sprecher:
The Sophomore class will meet on Wednesday, Sept. 3 at CAPstone in Mr. Nee’s room.
From Mr. Klang:
There will be a Junior Class Meeting in Mr. Klang’s room during CAPstone today, Sept. 3rd.
From Mrs. Thompson:
There will be a Freshman Class meeting in the LMC during CAPstone today, Sept. 3rd.
Word of the Day:
Trivial: having little value or importance - The friends often argued over trivial things.
On This Day in History:
September 3, 1928 Sir Alexander Fleming noticed that mold that had fallen on a culture killed the bacteria and he went on to study and introduce penicillin to the medical community as a cure for bacterial infections.
Notice:
We will continue to announce birthdays at the beginning of the school day; however, they will no longer be listed on the announcements that are sent to the general public.
Parents/guardians are informed of field trips via permission slips. Unlike an athletic event or music concert, field trips are not open invitations for the general public to attend. Therefore, as a safety precaution, field trips will no longer be listed on the calendar on the District's website.
Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow
Lunch for today - Choice 1: Ham & Cheese on a pretzel bun; Choice 2: Hot Dog with WG bun - Vegetable Pasta Salad, WG Potato Chips, Watermelon, Sidekicks, Fresh Green Salad, Milk
From Mr. Nee and Ms. Sprecher:
The Sophomore class will meet on Wednesday, Sept. 3 at CAPstone in Mr. Nee’s room.
From Ms. Sprecher:
FFA officer team will meet in Ms. Sprecher’s room today, Tuesday, Sept. 2 during CAPstone.
From Mrs. Kershner:
Any students who are presently involved in the Youth Apprenticeship Program or plan on being a part of the program, it is important you see Mrs. Kershner or Ms. Bevan today (Tues Sep 2). Please stop in the school counselors office at your study hall or free time. Thank you
Word of the Day:
Panache (puh-nash): A grand of flamboyant manner or style - The chef plated each dish with such panache that it felt like performance art.
On This Day in History: September 2, 1945 Japan surrendered to the Allies, aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, bringing an end to World War II.
Notice:
We will continue to announce birthdays at the beginning of the school day; however, they will no longer be listed on the announcements that are sent to the general public.
Parents/guardians are informed of field trips via permission slips. Unlike an athletic event or music concert, field trips are not open invitations for the general public to attend. Therefore, as a safety precaution, field trips will no longer be listed on the calendar on the District's website.
Lunch for today - Choice 1: Ham & Cheese on a pretzel bun; Choice 2: Hot Dog with WG bun - Vegetable Pasta Salad, WG Potato Chips, Watermelon, Sidekicks, Fresh Green Salad, Milk
From Mr. Nee and Ms. Sprecher:
The Sophomore class will meet on Wednesday, Sept. 3 at CAPstone in Mr. Nee’s room.
From Ms. Sprecher:
FFA officer team will meet in Ms. Sprecher’s room today, Tuesday, Sept. 2 during CAPstone.
From Mrs. Kershner:
Any students who are presently involved in the Youth Apprenticeship Program or plan on being a part of the program, it is important you see Mrs. Kershner or Ms. Bevan today (Tues Sep 2). Please stop in the school counselors office at your study hall or free time. Thank you
Word of the Day:
Panache (puh-nash): A grand of flamboyant manner or style - The chef plated each dish with such panache that it felt like performance art.
On This Day in History: September 2, 1945 Japan surrendered to the Allies, aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, bringing an end to World War II.
Notice:
We will continue to announce birthdays at the beginning of the school day; however, they will no longer be listed on the announcements that are sent to the general public.
Parents/guardians are informed of field trips via permission slips. Unlike an athletic event or music concert, field trips are not open invitations for the general public to attend. Therefore, as a safety precaution, field trips will no longer be listed on the calendar on the District's website.
Welcome back to our staff and students. Lets make it a GREAT year!
We look CALM now, but just wait until Tuesday!
All joking aside, our staff has enjoyed a VERY productive week in preparation for the first day of classes on Tuesday, Sept 2.
Lets make it the best year EVER to be a Bulldog!
All joking aside, our staff has enjoyed a VERY productive week in preparation for the first day of classes on Tuesday, Sept 2.
Lets make it the best year EVER to be a Bulldog!
The best way to learn is to teach, and the best way to not get lost is to follow someone who already is.
We would like to present to you our new staff and their mentors.
Clair Fedderly, District Administrator
Tina Haynes, mentor and MS Special Education teacher
Sarah Dilley, Elementary Principal and Director of Curriculum
Paula Boland, mentor and MS/HS Math teacher
Meghan Amos, MS Science and ELA teacher
Kennedi Kjellberg, Elementary General Music, MS/HS Band and Choir director
Peg Durkin, mentor and K-12 Art
Jed Sieber, 3rd Grade teacher
Trent Urban, mentor and 3rd Grade teacher
Denise Huffar, mentor and 4th Grade teacher
Breann Dray, Kindergarten teacher
Autumn Bultman, 1st Grade teacher
Aaron Huebsch, Elementary Physical Education teacher
Kara Steinmetz, mentor and 2nd Grade teacher
Juli Thompson, Library Media Specialist
Olivia Preuss, mentor and 5th Grade teacher
Andrea Newkirk, mentor and Reading Interventionist
Kari Menke, 4K teacher
Brandon Fetterly, High School and Middle School Principal
We would like to present to you our new staff and their mentors.
Clair Fedderly, District Administrator
Tina Haynes, mentor and MS Special Education teacher
Sarah Dilley, Elementary Principal and Director of Curriculum
Paula Boland, mentor and MS/HS Math teacher
Meghan Amos, MS Science and ELA teacher
Kennedi Kjellberg, Elementary General Music, MS/HS Band and Choir director
Peg Durkin, mentor and K-12 Art
Jed Sieber, 3rd Grade teacher
Trent Urban, mentor and 3rd Grade teacher
Denise Huffar, mentor and 4th Grade teacher
Breann Dray, Kindergarten teacher
Autumn Bultman, 1st Grade teacher
Aaron Huebsch, Elementary Physical Education teacher
Kara Steinmetz, mentor and 2nd Grade teacher
Juli Thompson, Library Media Specialist
Olivia Preuss, mentor and 5th Grade teacher
Andrea Newkirk, mentor and Reading Interventionist
Kari Menke, 4K teacher
Brandon Fetterly, High School and Middle School Principal
"I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back." - Maya Angelou
This week, City of Reedsburg Ambulance trained many Ithaca School staff in CPR, First Aid, AED, Stop The Bleed, and other medical responses. Ithaca staff are committed to our students and community in and out of the classroom. Becoming certified in CPR is a large part of that commitment. Currently, nearly all of Ithaca's staff, from bus drivers to custodians are certified in Basic Life Support.
Thank you to City of Reedsburg Ambulance for supporting our school and community, and thank you to our staff for their dedication in this and so many ways.
https://www.reedsburgambulance.com/
This week, City of Reedsburg Ambulance trained many Ithaca School staff in CPR, First Aid, AED, Stop The Bleed, and other medical responses. Ithaca staff are committed to our students and community in and out of the classroom. Becoming certified in CPR is a large part of that commitment. Currently, nearly all of Ithaca's staff, from bus drivers to custodians are certified in Basic Life Support.
Thank you to City of Reedsburg Ambulance for supporting our school and community, and thank you to our staff for their dedication in this and so many ways.
https://www.reedsburgambulance.com/
The Middle School Student Council will be holding a food drive for Ithaca's Bulldog Boutique/food pantry during open house on August 27. We are in need of easy to make items, such as Mac and cheese cups, oatmeal packets, fruit cups, microwave popcorn, granola bars, cereal bars, etc... No refrigerated items or items that have peanut butter or nuts. A donation bin will be located near the front entrance and near the Boutique, room 102. If you have any questions please email Tina Ramsden Student Council Advisor and Boutique coordinator. - tina.ramsden@ithaca.k12.wi.us
Get ready for something NEW!
We are very excited to announce Ithaca will be doing online registration this year.
Parents/Guardians will be receiving an informational email on Monday Aug 18th with instructions.
If you need help with online registration for any reason, we will have support at Open House the 27th 4-6 PM.
Thank you for your patience as we all try something new!
Hey everyone - Ithaca Athletic Passes will be available beginning August 15th in the main office. Stop by and have Sheila get you ready for the upcoming school years worth of sporting events.
In May, almost 270,000 students across the world attempted the AP Statistics Exam. The exams are scored on a 5 point scale, and most colleges accept a 3 as passing. Only about 1 in 6 students earn a 5, the highest possible score.
This year at Ithaca, 9 students attempted the exam, and 3 of those students earned the prestigious score of a 5.
According to Mr. Andresen, the AP Statistics teacher for Ithaca High School, these 3 students have shown the highest effort, work ethic, and positive attitude during their efforts in learning the material.
The course is designed for college-bound students, and as a result, is faster and more rigorous than most high school courses. These 3 individuals are the first students to earn a 5 in Ithaca High School history, but hopefully not the last.
Congratulations to Trista Pluemer, Xander Sorensen, and Maggie Wambach for earning the first 5's in Ithaca School District history!
*pictured are Xander Sorensen, and Maggie Wambach.
Three students from Ithaca High School attended the 2025 American Legion Auxiliary Badger Girls State held at UW-Oshkosh in June. Izzie Ortiz, Abby Plonka, and Ally Plonka were able to attend due to generous sponsorship by local members of the American Legion Auxiliary.
For six days approximately 800 girls from high schools all around Wisconsin, who had recently finished their junior year of high school, participated in creating a mock government in the state of “Badger”. Students were assigned to a political party - the Federalists or the Nationalists – and a city and county.
The camp was run exactly how Wisconsin state, county, and city governments are administered.
Some of the government duties involved creating flags and songs, passing party platforms and city ordinances, writing a daily newspaper, and authoring laws.
Participants were able to preselect an interest group where they spent 45 minutes a day with students with similar interests. Ally and Abby chose to play in the pep band and Izzie chose the debate and discussion group. Anyone could run for office and every student had a designated job. Izzie was a senator, Abby was an alderperson, and Ally was a senate messenger.
Guest speakers were an important part of the event and included Wisconsin State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jill Underly, National President of the American Legion Auxiliary Trish Ward, and Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers all giving wise advice and taking photo ops with the students.
At the end of the week students left with new friends and connections, a taste of campus life, and a deep understanding of how everyone must work together at all levels of government in order for society to properly function.
For six days approximately 800 girls from high schools all around Wisconsin, who had recently finished their junior year of high school, participated in creating a mock government in the state of “Badger”. Students were assigned to a political party - the Federalists or the Nationalists – and a city and county.
The camp was run exactly how Wisconsin state, county, and city governments are administered.
Some of the government duties involved creating flags and songs, passing party platforms and city ordinances, writing a daily newspaper, and authoring laws.
Participants were able to preselect an interest group where they spent 45 minutes a day with students with similar interests. Ally and Abby chose to play in the pep band and Izzie chose the debate and discussion group. Anyone could run for office and every student had a designated job. Izzie was a senator, Abby was an alderperson, and Ally was a senate messenger.
Guest speakers were an important part of the event and included Wisconsin State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jill Underly, National President of the American Legion Auxiliary Trish Ward, and Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers all giving wise advice and taking photo ops with the students.
At the end of the week students left with new friends and connections, a taste of campus life, and a deep understanding of how everyone must work together at all levels of government in order for society to properly function.
Abby Plonka, member of the Ithaca High School FBLA, recently attended the FBLA National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, CA. She qualified by placing first at the Wisconsin State FBLA competition in April in the testing category of Healthcare Administration. Over 100 competitions took place at NLC and there were 18,000 middle and high school students, parents, and FBLA advisors present with 800 members from the Wisconsin delegation attending.
In addition to competitions, there were several workshops for students and teachers to attend, along with the FBLA Expo. Numerous colleges and universities were represented at the expo along with all the branches of the US military and many businesses. Pin trading (and the pin trading booth) is a very important part of the FBLA conference as well. This activity helps students gain the courage to meet others as students have to walk up to another person, usually someone they don’t know, and ask to trade for pins which are displayed on everyone’s lanyards.
The final day of the conference is dedicated to going out into the host city on your own to explore the area before the evening awards ceremony. Anaheim is a beautiful city with thousands of palm trees, Disneyland, and gorgeous weather. Some highlights of the area were the GardenWalk Mall, the Aquarium of the Pacific, Huntington Beach, Irvine Park and Zoo, and the Orange County Outlets.
Though Abby did not place in the top 10 in her contest, the experience was amazing! Abby has qualified for NLC by placing 4th or higher at state for all 3 years of her high school career. Her trip was made possible by generous donations from the Ithaca School Board, the Ithaca PTSO, the Ithaca FBLA, Mrs. Linda Peterson, and Richard and Ann Wiedenfeld.
In addition to competitions, there were several workshops for students and teachers to attend, along with the FBLA Expo. Numerous colleges and universities were represented at the expo along with all the branches of the US military and many businesses. Pin trading (and the pin trading booth) is a very important part of the FBLA conference as well. This activity helps students gain the courage to meet others as students have to walk up to another person, usually someone they don’t know, and ask to trade for pins which are displayed on everyone’s lanyards.
The final day of the conference is dedicated to going out into the host city on your own to explore the area before the evening awards ceremony. Anaheim is a beautiful city with thousands of palm trees, Disneyland, and gorgeous weather. Some highlights of the area were the GardenWalk Mall, the Aquarium of the Pacific, Huntington Beach, Irvine Park and Zoo, and the Orange County Outlets.
Though Abby did not place in the top 10 in her contest, the experience was amazing! Abby has qualified for NLC by placing 4th or higher at state for all 3 years of her high school career. Her trip was made possible by generous donations from the Ithaca School Board, the Ithaca PTSO, the Ithaca FBLA, Mrs. Linda Peterson, and Richard and Ann Wiedenfeld.
Our WELCOME to the team series at Ithaca.
We would like to welcome Sarah Dilley to her new role as Elementary School Principal at Ithaca.
Here is some background info directly from Mrs. Dilley.
"My journey in education began 25 years ago, fueled by a deep love for children and a passion for helping them grow—not just academically, but as whole individuals.
Over the years, I’ve worn many hats: paraprofessional, classroom teacher, interventionist, special education teacher, and alternate administrator. Each role has taught me something valuable and shaped the way I lead and support others today.
I spent seven incredibly meaningful years teaching at Ithaca, and the sense of community and school culture there left a lasting impression on me. I’m so grateful for all the amazing colleagues, families, and students who helped shape my path.
What led me into education was my love for kids. What led me into leadership was my desire to support teachers, build strong teams, and create a positive, thriving school environment for everyone.
I’m truly excited for this next chapter—to build on the great work already happening and to work side-by-side with a passionate group of educators, families, and students to help every learner shine.
Here’s to a year filled with growth, collaboration, and meaningful impact!"
Please say HELLO and welcome Mrs. Dilley
We would like to welcome Sarah Dilley to her new role as Elementary School Principal at Ithaca.
Here is some background info directly from Mrs. Dilley.
"My journey in education began 25 years ago, fueled by a deep love for children and a passion for helping them grow—not just academically, but as whole individuals.
Over the years, I’ve worn many hats: paraprofessional, classroom teacher, interventionist, special education teacher, and alternate administrator. Each role has taught me something valuable and shaped the way I lead and support others today.
I spent seven incredibly meaningful years teaching at Ithaca, and the sense of community and school culture there left a lasting impression on me. I’m so grateful for all the amazing colleagues, families, and students who helped shape my path.
What led me into education was my love for kids. What led me into leadership was my desire to support teachers, build strong teams, and create a positive, thriving school environment for everyone.
I’m truly excited for this next chapter—to build on the great work already happening and to work side-by-side with a passionate group of educators, families, and students to help every learner shine.
Here’s to a year filled with growth, collaboration, and meaningful impact!"
Please say HELLO and welcome Mrs. Dilley
