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The Cedarburg School District is pleased to announce the new building principal at Thorson
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The Cedarburg School District is pleased to announce the new building principal at Thorson Elementary School for the 2024-25 school year. On Wednesday, June 19, 2024, the Cedarburg School Board approved an administrative contract for Mr. Brandon Ruff. He will be taking over from Angela Little, who earlier this year accepted a new position as the Director of Student Learning at the Mukwonago School District, starting on July 1, 2024. Mrs. Little, who has been with the Cedarburg School District since 2014, will continue to serve as Thorson's Principal until the end of June 2024. Her dedicated service over the past 10 years is highly valued and appreciated by all.
Brandon has 20 years of experience in education. He recently served as Associate Principal for North Middle School in the Menomonee Falls School District for the past two years. Some may know Brandon as he served as an 8th-grade Social Studies teacher at Webster Middle School for 10 years, from 2012 to 2022. During his time at Webster, he gained remarkable experiences and remained dedicated to learning and evolving as an educator. Throughout his educational career, he exemplified leadership through his strong work ethic, genuine care for students, and deepened his understanding of best practices to ensure the success of every student. Continuous improvement is what drives Mr. Ruff to foster a positive school culture, both as an administrator and teacher. He believes that individual conversations with students on their current strengths and needs for improvement are essential in building the “why” for students in their learning.
Under Mr. Ruff’s leadership, Thorson Elementary School will continue to uphold its high level of excellence and strong reputation. He stated, “My goal is to ensure every student receives a high-quality education in a supportive and nurturing environment. We will continue to strive for outstanding achievement, supported by a strong, dedicated staff that is passionate about student success and development.”
Brandon Ruff has a Master’s Degree in Education and Business Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice. He is looking forward to being once again a dedicated member of the community. He has coached Webster’s basketball, track, and cross-country teams, as well as serving as the Cedarburg High School Boys’ Golf Coach. As a parent of 4 children and a wife who is also in education, he is excited to be back working at the Cedarburg School District. The Cedarburg School District is fortunate to welcome such a visionary leader back to our learning community.
Students are applying their skills and knowledge of the Spanish language and cultural elements
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Students are applying their skills and knowledge of the Spanish language and cultural elements studied in class, such as nature and ecotourism. It's a fantastic opportunity! Halfway through their trip, they experienced a visit to the active Poas Volcano, helped paint a local school, replaced swings at a local park named 11 de Marzo, experienced the La Paz Waterfall Gardens, and crossed the suspension bridge over the Sarapiqui River.
Every January, students from Cedarburg High School participate in National History Day® (NHD)
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Every January, students from Cedarburg High School participate in National History Day® (NHD) projects along with over 10,000 students statewide and more than 600,000 nationwide. CHS teachers evaluate the presentations, and the winners progress to regional competitions. They can then advance to State and National competitions in April and June, respectively.
This year, five students from CHS advanced to the National Competition. Two of these students, Michelle Glynn and Rachael Winker, have been selected to present their NHD exhibit titled "Corsets to Coco: Turning Point in History" at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. on June 12, 2024. Their project was chosen at the state competition for its exceptional quality and relevance, earning them this special recognition. This is a prestigious honor from the NHD community, and our students are excited for the chance to showcase their work at the Smithsonian! Congratulations, Michelle and Rachael!
National History Day® (NHD) is proud to announce a series of student exhibitions at cultural institutions in Washington, D.C., during its 50th-anniversary National Contest. 99 historical research projects by students – including papers, documentaries, performances, and tabletop exhibits – will be exhibited at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, Smithsonian’s Museum of the American Indian, Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the White House Historical Association on Wednesday, June 12, 2024.
Cathy Gorn, the Executive Director of National History Day, said, “Encouraging students to expand their study of history beyond the classroom is a fundamental aspect of our work at National History Day. In our organization’s 50th anniversary year, we are thrilled to display these NHD projects at the Smithsonian Institution and the White House Historical Association. We are grateful for the collaborative effort of these cultural institutions in promoting the outstanding and essential work of these history students."
Update May 9, 2024 CHS senior Anica Tipkemper-Wolfe is one of two Wisconsin students to receive the
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Update May 9, 2024
CHS senior Anica Tipkemper-Wolfe is one of two Wisconsin students to receive the prestigious U.S. Presidential Scholars Award from the U.S. Department of Education. This award is among the highest honors for high school students and recognizes their outstanding academic, arts, and career and technical education achievements. Anica is one of the 161 high school seniors from across the nation who have been chosen for this honor! "It's incredible, but not surprising, to hear that Anica is one of only two students in our state to receive this award and the first from CHS in quite some time.” Cedarburg High School Principal Casey Bowe expressed his utmost pride, saying, “I have no doubt that the selection committee got this one right. Anyone who has been around Anica knows about her exceptional academic abilities, leadership qualities, and commitment to excellence. Her passion for learning is contagious, her talents are diverse, and her humble and stoic nature serves as a model for all of us. Way to go, Anica!”
April 26, 2024 - Congratulations to Cedarburg High School senior Anica Tipkemper-Wolfe on being nominated for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program by the U.S. Department of Education! Anica is among approximately 625 semifinalists in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program to advance to the first round of competition. The semifinalists were selected from a pool of nearly 6,500 candidates expected to graduate from U.S. high schools in 2024.
Inclusion in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, now in its 59th year, is one of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors. Scholars are selected based on their accomplishments in many areas- academic and artistic success, accomplishment in career and technical fields, leadership, strong character, and involvement in school and the community.
CHS Principal Casey Bowe shared, "This prestigious recognition is a testament to Anica's exceptional academic abilities, leadership qualities, and commitment to excellence Her passion for learning and contributions to our school community during her time at CHS have not gone unnoticed, and being nominated for this award is a remarkable accomplishment that reflects Anica's hard work, determination, and passion for learning. Congratulations to Anica on this well-deserved honor."
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by executive order of the President to recognize and honor some of our nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional visual, creative, and performing arts talent. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields. Each year, up to 161 students are named Presidential Scholars, one of the nation's highest honors for high school students.
May 9, 2024 - Cedarburg High School (CHS) is proud to announce that Grace Gventer, a senior
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May 9, 2024 - Cedarburg High School (CHS) is proud to announce that Grace Gventer, a senior student, has been named National Merit Scholar and a recipient of the National Merit $2500 Scholarship. Grace was recognized as both a Semifinalist and a Finalist in the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) earlier this year, and now she has earned this prestigious scholarship. The Merit Scholar designees were chosen from a talent pool of more than 15,000 outstanding Finalists in the 2024 NMSC Program.
The National Merit $2500 Scholarship winners are the Finalists in each state judged to have the strongest combination of accomplishments, skills, and potential for success in rigorous college studies. The number of winners named in each state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the nation’s graduating high school seniors.
These Scholars were selected by a committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors, who appraised a substantial amount of information submitted by both the Finalists and their high schools: the academic record, including difficulty level of subjects studied and grades earned; scores from the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®); contributions and leadership in school and community activities; an essay written by the Finalist; and a recommendation written by a high school official.
Advancing in the competition and being considered for a Merit Scholarship award was no easy feat. A Semifinalist had to meet several stringent requirements, including submitting a detailed scholarship application and a comprehensive scholarship record of outstanding academic performance. Then, from a distinguished group of over 15,000 Finalists, only 6,870 were chosen as National Merit Scholarship winners.
Grace Gventer has made CHS and the entire community proud with her exceptional academic achievements. Cedarburg High School Principal Casey Bowe expressed his utmost pride, "Grace, your dedication and hard work have truly paid off with this prestigious National Merit Scholarship. We at Cedarburg High School are not just proud of you but also inspired by your ever-growing list of achievements. Congratulations, and go Bulldogs!”
Kohl Education Foundation Teacher Fellowship Award
Ms. Stacy Lesmeister is a 2024 recipient of the Herb Kohl Education Foundation Teacher Fellowship
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Ms. Stacy Lesmeister is a 2024 recipient of the Herb Kohl Education Foundation Teacher Fellowship Award!
The Herb Kohl Educational Foundation has recently announced the winners of its 2024 Student Excellence and Initiative, Teacher Fellowship, and Principal Leadership awards. This year, 304 Wisconsin-based students, teachers, and administrators were honored for their outstanding achievements and contributions.
We are proud to have many exceptional educators in our schools who set high standards of excellence and work tirelessly to prepare every child for success in their future endeavors. We are delighted to share that Cedarburg High School's Computer Science teacher, Stacy Lesmeister, has been named as one of this year's award recipients for the Teacher Fellowship.
Stacy Lesmeister has been recognized for her exceptional leadership and service, both inside and outside the classroom. She is an inspiration to her students and has motivated them to love learning. Stacy has been an exemplary teacher with increasing enrollment in her computer science classes and a significant rise in female students taking her courses. In fact, last month, Cedarburg High School announced that thirty of its computer science students had been awarded the 2024 National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) Award for Aspirations in Computing (AiC), which is the most in Wisconsin for the fifth year in a row. Stacy will be presented with a $6,000 grant and a matching grant for Cedarburg High School. This recognition is well-deserved for her outstanding contributions to the education community.
Principal Casey Bowe stated, "Stacy Lesmeister is not only an exceptional teacher but also one of the most compassionate, selfless, and motivated individuals I have ever come across. Her dedication to her students and her profession is truly inspiring, and I feel privileged to have the opportunity to work with her. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition."
“Herb Kohl believed that education is the key to the future of Wisconsin and our nation,” JoAnne Anton, President & CEO of Herb Kohl Philanthropies, said. “That’s why he invested in and prioritized awards that recognize students, teachers, and principals who demonstrate incredible hard work, achievements, and service. We hope this year’s awards help this impressive group of recipients in their individual pursuits today so that they pay it forward in the future. We call that the Herb Kohl Way.”
Award recipients are selected by a statewide committee composed of civic leaders and representatives of education-related associations and the program’s co-sponsors: The Wisconsin Newspaper Association Foundation, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, regional Cooperative Educational Service Agencies (CESA), the Association of Wisconsin School Administrators, and the Wisconsin Homeschooling Parents Association. The Kohl Foundation award program was established by Herb Kohl, former U.S. senator, philanthropist, and businessman who died December 27, 2023. Since 1990, the foundation has awarded nearly $38 million to Wisconsin educators, principals, students, and schools.
On March 20, 2024, the Cedarburg School Board approved a contract for Allison Rudich as the new
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On March 20, 2024, the Cedarburg School Board approved a contract for Allison Rudich as the new Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. She will begin serving in this role on July 1, 2024, replacing Alan Groth, who will retire at the end of the 2023-24 school year. We appreciate Alan Groth's dedicated service to our learning community and the larger community over the past few years, and we wish him the very best in his retirement.
Allison Rudich, also known as Alli, has a wealth of experience and passion for education. Alli began her career as an elementary classroom teacher and has since held various leadership positions, including adjunct professor and practicum supervisor for aspiring administrators, Assistant Principal, and Principal. She possesses more than 23 years of experience in public education, having worked in Wisconsin and Missouri. She is an accomplished leader who puts pride in people, systems, and structures and keeps a close eye on the data associated with each of these. She fosters relationships with educators and prioritizes developing connections to gain a better grasp of and respond to students' needs.
Alli holds a Master's Degree in Education from Southwest Baptist University, an Educational Specialist Degree from Missouri Baptist, and a Bachelor's in Elementary Education and Language Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She believes in community and open collaboration. She aligns with the current work being done in Cedarburg and is ready to support those who directly impact students while systematizing their needs and efforts to continue making Cedarburg School District students successful. Alli is a determined and focused individual who is committed to ensuring that the educators in our system are well-equipped to face daily challenges. She is excited to share her experiences and dedication to successfully leading and growing educators for student success.
“I am very excited to join the Cedarburg School District,” said Alli. “As a parent of two children in the district, I have directly connected with many passionate, strong educators who believe in students and are willing to do the work to make them successful individuals. It is a great honor to join this team and work alongside educators, families, and our community.”
She resides in Cedarburg with her husband, Nick, and children, Grayson and Kylie. With her expertise in education and genuine passion for teaching, Mrs. Rudich is well-suited to serve as the next Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. The Cedarburg School District is fortunate to have such a visionary leader join our learning community.
On February 21, 2024, the Cedarburg School Board approved a contract for Kim Zabel to serve as the
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On February 21, 2024, the Cedarburg School Board approved a contract for Kim Zabel to serve as the new Director of Business Services, replacing Ben Irwin, who will resign after the 2023-24 school year. Mr. Irwin had previously announced his resignation and will soon join the Whitefish Bay School District on July 1, 2024. We appreciate his dedicated service to our learning community and the larger community over the past few years, and we wish him the very best in his new position.
Kim Zabel was selected from a group of excellent candidates after a meticulous interview process that involved business office staff and district administration. With over 15 years of experience in public and private education, Kim has previously served as Business Manager for the Fall Creek School District, Director of Finance for Hamilton School District, as well as School Business Specialist for Baird. She is a successful leader with expertise in school process improvement, analysis, and financial systems. Mrs. Zabel has initiated cost-saving projects, implemented comprehensive budget planning and forecasting models, and efficiently managed the fiscal components of capital projects.
Kim has a Master’s Degree in School Business Management from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater and a Bachelor's in Psychology and Business Administration from North Central College in Naperville, IL. As a qualified professional with expertise in school finance and accounting, along with a genuine passion for education, Mrs. Zabel is well-suited to serve as the Director of Business Services and is eager to contribute to the success of the Cedarburg school community.
“I’m excited to join the Cedarburg School District and contribute to fostering a successful learning environment for all students,” said Kim. “I’m impressed by the district’s commitment to excellence and eager to collaborate with the talented team. Together, we’ll navigate challenges, embrace opportunities, and empower a bright future for our community.” She resides in Brookfield with her husband, Nathan, and two kids, Kate (10) and Rye (5).
Kim is committed to maintaining the high level of excellence and strong reputation of the Cedarburg School District. The Cedarburg School District is fortunate to welcome such a visionary leader to our learning community.
Significantly Exceeds Expectations on State Report Cards
The Cedarburg School District’s rating score of 93.3 ranks CSD 2nd in the state out of 367
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The Cedarburg School District’s rating score of 93.3 ranks CSD 2nd in the state out of 367 Wisconsin 4K-12 public school districts and earned the highest rating of Significantly Exceeds Expectations on the 2022-23 District Report Card.
This rating is based on four priority area scores: achievement, growth, target group outcomes, and on track to graduation. The overall district score improved since the last report card in 2021-22, and we are incredibly proud that, for the third time, each of our five schools earned the rating of Significantly Exceeds Expectations. This performance is exceptional, and the achievement of ALL students continues to be a celebration.
CHSranked #5 out of 428 9th-12th grade high schools (#3 out of traditional HS)
Websterranked #1 out of 254 6th-8th grade schools
Parkviewranked #6 out of 605 4K-5th grade schools
Thorsonranked #20 out of 605 4K-5th grade schools
Westlawnranked #11 out of 605 4K-5th grade schools
“Our students’ achievement is a collective endeavor. We value the support of parents and families in each child’s education, the dedication of our teachers in creating inspiring classrooms, our students' commitment to taking ownership of their learning, and the connections and support of the dynamic community in which we live. Our schools are the heart of the community, and the whole community plays an essential role in the growth and development of its young people. Together, we make a difference. As a district, we are incredibly proud, and this achievement recognizes the work of our entire 4K-12 system”, said Superintendent Dr. Jeridon Clark.
Click here to learn more about the district accountability measures and view the district report cards.
2022-2023 Cedarburg School District Celebrations
#5 Best School District in Wisconsin 2023 by Niche*
#3 High School & Top K-8 Schools in Wisconsin 2023 by US News and World Report**
In 2023, Juniors earned an average composite ACT score of 23.4 on annual state assessments
3 Nat’l Merit Semifinalists named in 2023
1,055 AP exams taken by CHS students
Over 85% extracurricular participation rate
Over $300K in 2023 CHS & CCSF awarded scholarships
The DPI creates a Report Card for every publicly funded school and district in the state. These report cards can be accessed online at http://dpi.wi.gov/accountability/report-cards. Our District and School Report Cards can be found on our website. The Report Cards are compiled using state assessment data and are intended to help all schools and districts target improvement efforts to ensure students are ready for the next educational step, whether that be the next grade level, graduation, college or career. We are pleased to offer robust educational programs within our district. Additional Educational Options available to all children residing in the Cedarburg School District boundaries can also be found on our website.
CHS has been named to the College Board AP® School Honor Roll for 2022-23, earning GOLD
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CHS has been named to the College Board AP® School Honor Roll for 2022-23, earning GOLD distinction.
The AP® School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening access. Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness.
Cedarburg High School was also recognized for its exceptional achievement by receiving the Level 1 Advanced Placement Pacesetter Award from the Wisconsin Advanced Placement Advisory Council in partnership with the Department of Public Instruction. Out of the 514 public high schools in Wisconsin, CHS is one of only 17 schools to be granted the distinguished Level 1 AP Pacesetter Award. To be recognized as a Pacesetter Level 1 School, more than 30% of students at the school must take AP exams, and more than 70% of those test-takers must receive a score of 3 or higher (students must receive a three or above to receive Advanced Placement credit).
“We are honored to receive this recognition from the College Board. This achievement reflects the hard work and commitment of our students, teachers, and staff, and it's a testament to the culture of academic excellence we've fostered here,” said Principal Casey Bowe. “We will continue to strive for excellence and provide our students with the best opportunities for success."
Cedarburg High School had 76% of seniors who took at least one AP exam during high school, 59% of seniors scoring a three or higher on at least one AP exam, and 35% of seniors who took five or more AP exams! CHS offers 26 AP Courses.
College Board’s Advanced Placement® Program (AP®) enables students to pursue college-level studies—with the opportunity to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both—while still in high school. Through AP courses in 38 subjects, each culminating in a challenging exam, students learn to think critically, construct solid arguments, and see many sides of an issue—skills that prepare them for college and beyond.
For 2023, Cedarburg School District is pleased to announce U.S. News & World Report has ranked
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For 2023, Cedarburg School District is pleased to announce U.S. News & World Report has ranked Cedarburg High School #3 in the state and #263 in the national rankings, placing CHS in the top 0.78% in the nation. Cedarburg High School performed nationally and statewide out of 17,680 nationally ranked schools and 460 schools ranked in Wisconsin. Amongst Wisconsin comprehensive public high schools, CHS ranks #1! Cedarburg High School has been recognized on its annual list of “Best High Schools” for the ninth year in a row.
Superintendent Clark commented, “This achievement recognizes the extraordinary work of all our staff and students. While we don’t seek out these accolades, our schools can celebrate many points of pride. Our passionate teachers, committed students, and supportive parents contribute to a healthy and vibrant learning environment. We are fortunate to be in a community that values a standard of educational excellence that celebrates everyone’s success. It’s rewarding that respected entities recognize our efforts”. Each year, U.S. News & World Report reviews educational data on more than 25,000 public high schools nationwide, providing the most comprehensive evaluation of America’s public high schools. This year, nearly 18,000 schools were ranked on factors based on their performance on math, reading, and science state assessments and how well they prepare students for college.
Cedarburg High School Principal Casey Bowe said, “Anyone fortunate enough to walk these halls and spend time with our students and staff already knows Cedarburg High School is a special place. Being recognized as one of the very best schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report is an incredible honor that we do not take for granted. I would like to recognize the hard work of our great teachers and support staff whose dedication supports high levels of student learning every day at school. We share this praise with our community, families, and those whose commitment to education and support for learning pave the way for accolades such as this. Of course, the biggest congratulations belong to our amazing students for their truly prestigious achievements. Go Bulldogs!”