Ashley Furniture Industries, Inc. – Ashley Furniture Industries, Inc. has made several financial contributions over the past several years, as well as offering opportunities for students to tour their facilities and learn about 21st Century manufacturing and careers. In the last year alone they have sponsored STEM camps for students in our district and have also spent in excess of $1 million for a mobile learning lab that will be shared by four local school districts, including ours. This lab will offer STEM opportunities for students, will allow them to learn about industry automation, and learn about various technologies in modern manufacturing. Without the partnership with Ashley Furniture Industries, our students would not have these opportunities.

Nominated by Lance Bagstad, district administrator

Fred Thomas Resort – Fred Thomas Resort opened in 1925 and has been supporting the community ever since. Third generation owners often visit the school district to offer classes on solar education, attend school events, and offer financial support. Second generation owners are involved daily through support and mentoring middle school students, acting as treasurer of the Birchwood Foundation, offering financial support, and tutoring students every morning in the math classroom, and serving on the Community Garden Committee. One could not ask for a better partnership!

Greener’s Budget Lumber – Co-owners Loretta and Brent Greener have s son in the school district and understand the need for community involvement. Not only do they generously support the school district, they often volunteer in the classroom, volunteer as part of the charter Governance Board, and organize many school activities including “Denim and Diamonds” fundraiser, the color run, and the car/craft show. Outstanding people!

Masonite – Last year, Masonite acquired Birchwood Best and has continued as supportive partners. They regularly donate wood and wood products to the school for the Fabrication Lab. They worked hand-in-hand offering tours for all staff members in the school district. We are lucky to have great sponsors!

Rice Lake Weighing – Rice Lake Weighing has consistently financially supported the school district through the Educational Foundation of Birchwood. They golf in the annual golf tournament and stay for dinner and contribute to the silent and live auctions. In addition, they have been a needed partner in developing the school Fabrication Lab, offering advice and sending members to serve on the development committee. Although the company is located in Rice Lake, they support tiny districts like Birchwood.

Nominated by Diane Johnson, superintendent.

Traffic and Parking Control Company, Inc. – TAPCO is a traffic industry leading manufacturer headquartered in Brown Deer, Wisconsin dedicated to manufacturing, distributing and servicing
the latest innovations in safety. The U.S.A. State and Interstate highway system is regarded as the largest public works project in history and like TAPCO it has grown and expanded continually ever since. The school district has partnered with TAPCO to provide tours and job shadowing experiences for our middle/high school students. Additionally, Vice President, Andrew Bergholz has opened his training center for our district-wide in-services and other training throughout the school year. This partnership allows our teachers to better understand the career opportunities for our students right in our own Village. TAPCO has donated employee expertise, resources, and safety signage that has directly touched the lives of our students. TAPCO has been acknowledged by INC™ Magazine Future 5000 list as one of the nation’s fastest-growing privately owned small businesses in America from 2007-2017. We are mot appreciative of TAPCO for their creative and continuous support of our school district.

GenMet Corporation – GenMet is a full-service custom metal fabricator, providing quality fabrications and expertise to OEMs, point of purchase display manufacturers, and a wide variety of other vital industries. GenMet has generously donated funding, time and resources to the district to expand the opportunities for manufacturing for our students and staff. They sponsored a paid teacher internship for our Technical Education teacher to allow manufacturing techniques to be learned and taught at Brown Deer High School. One of our class of 2019 seniors is working at GenMet as a Youth Apprentice, and they have helped us find placements for others in previous years in other companies when they were unable to employ the students themselves. GenMet is an exhibitor in our annual college and career fair promoting manufacturing and showcasing our students in this field.

Education Foundation of Brown Deer – In July 2014, the Education Foundation of Brown Deer, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit organization was created to provide a way for individuals, businesses, and
organizations to share resources and gifts with the Brown Deer School community. The EFBD is committed to advancing educational opportunities for students, families, and staff of the Brown Deer School District. Former board members and parent volunteers have established this vibrant group to support college and career planning, literacy, scholarships for graduating seniors, and mini-grants for professional educators and staff. Community events such as the Color Run, Family Fun in the Field House, Touch a Truck, and 1000 Books Before Kindergarten were established to support the goals of the foundation for all age groups. Unique partnerships with local business have also been established with the National Basketball Players Association Foundation, Greater Milwaukee Foundation, Concordia University, BadgerMeter, UPS Store, and others to provide opportunities for our school community. Since the foundation was established over $247,000 of grants, scholarships, and other projects have been realized. This grassroots approach has included over 300 individual donations to support the work of the foundation. We are grateful for the passion and energy of the foundation that provides this ongoing support for all kids and families in our school district.

General Plastics, Incorporated and Zamora Group International – General Plastics, Inc. (GP) is a full-service custom plastic thermo-former located on the north side of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. General Plastics provides high quality and cost-effective turnkey solutions for Point of Purchase (POP) and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in the following markets: Bus, Rail, Truck, Marine, Office, Lavatory, Medical, Health & Wellness, Gaming, Arcade, Food & Beverage, Construction and Machine Guarding. General Plastics has been a partner with Brown Deer High School for material donations, youth apprenticeships, job shadowing, and internships. Most recently, with their new addition, Gen Plastics graciously sponsored a leadership program – “The Tools for Life and Leadership” for fifty of our high school students in their new the expanded training center in collaboration with facilities, Chuck Zamora. For over two decades, ZAMORA GROUP INTERNATIONAL – The Learning Company has presented and actively developed “The Tools of Life & Leadership” (a program for high school students) across Australia and now offers this program in the USA. This program has touched the lives of more than 93,000 high school students in 3 countries! This program has been designed to take the skills and competencies being taught in the corporate world regarding leadership and personal development and apply them in the educational environment. Chuck was instrumental in acquiring a $5,000 donation for the leadership program. The students also toured the facilities and learned more about the work of Gen Plastics as a vital part of the manufacturing sector in southeast Wisconsin, the United States and Canada.

Al Hurvis/ADAMM and Milwaukee Tennis Classic Association – In partnership with the Al Hurvis/ADAMM Foundation, the MTC has provided scholarships internships and opportunities for our students to use the sport of tennis as a catalyst to achieve life goals. It started with a summer program teaching the basic skills of tennis mentoring students and providing opportunities for students to see tennis played on a national stage. This collaboration was able to provide rackets, indoor tennis nets/standards, training for teachers and staff, and field trip opportunities for our students reacted to the sport of tennis. This past summer was the highlight of our partnership as the Novak Family Field House was the venue for the 1st annual Milwaukee Tennis Exhibition and Education Fair featuring former world #4 tennis, US Davis Cup and USTA Foundation chairperson James Blake and Brown Deer native and alumnus Brandon Currie. The exhibition was sponsored by Al Hurvis/ADAMM Foundation to inspire youth from disadvantaged backgrounds in Milwaukee to play tennis and build character, integrity, stamina, and opportunity in pursuing meaningful life and career goals. The MTCA has provided in-service for our K-12 teachers and Brown Deer Park and Recreation staff with donations of tennis equipment, portable nets, and bleachers.

Building Service, Incorporated (BSI) – Senior Vice President, Roger Daniels, is a former parent and resident of Brown Deer. He also served on the first executive board of the Education Foundation of Brown Deer. He has donated his time to serve on our Project Lead the Way business advisory team and has provided numerous opportunities for students to work at BSI to gain valuable work experience skills. Executive Vice President, Jim Macejkovic, serves on the North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters’ (NCSRCC) Joint Apprenticeship Training Council (JATC) and has been instrumental in supporting Brown Deer MHS’s Industry Advisory. Through Jim’s work, BSI has contributed materials and human power to help make BDMHS’s innovative approach to job preparedness a reality for our students. The Industry Advisory was created in partnership with the NCSRCC JATC board to address an overall shortage (in the Milwaukee market) of skilled craftsmen to work in their field operations. BSI is at the forefront when it comes to reaching out to tap the skills and talents of our high school students and aiding them in the process of learning a craft. To support their client demand for quick, high-quality projects, BSI has a growing need for carpenters, painters, floor coverers, electricians, laborers, furniture installers and service personnel. Brown Deer students have chosen to enter apprenticeship programs and the trades due to the partnership of BSI. One 2018 graduated was hired by BSI, and BSI is excited to provide more opportunities for
more students moving forward.

Nominated by Deb Kerr, superintendent.

The Cochrane-Fountain City Recorder – Our local, weekly newspaper provides exceptional and consistent coverage of our students and school activities. It regularly publishes news and photographs of achievements and activities within our elementary school, as well as the academic and extra-curricular successes of our secondary students. Categories of news items that are prominently featured in the paper include reading awards; field trips; honor rolls; FFA, FBLA, math team and robotics contests and awards; school plays and musicals; music competitions, year-round athletic events and many more. The annual graduation volume features a picture and short biography for each of our graduates.

Our newspaper helps our community to show our learners how important they are to us.

The Recorder often has a reporter at our school board meetings and willingly accepts outside submissions of news articles on school issues. We greatly appreciate the space we have been allocated to provide articles about the need for a facilities referendum and the renovations that have been completed since the referendum was approved.

The Cochrane-Fountain City Recorder focuses on our students and our school weekly. We thank the staff at the Recorder for their involvement and support.

Ashley Furniture Industries – Ashley for the Arts – This is the fifth year that Cochrane-Fountain City School has participated in the Ashley for the Arts program. In return for assistance from our families with ticket taking, parking, selling merchandise and security at their music festival; Ashley has donated up to $5000 to our music programs each year. Our school has been able to purchase travel opportunities for our students as well as risers, instruments and teaching aids for our elementary and secondary music classrooms.

The Cochrane-Fountain City School and community thank Ashley for the Arts for their generous support and assistance.
Many nonprofit organizations in our area benefit from Ashley’s generosity. This year Ashley for the Arts festival raised $535,000 that will be distributed to 51 different nonprofit groups in our area. Thank you to an amazing community partner!

Nominated by Bonnie Breza, school board member.

Rule Construction, Inc. has been extremely generous with their expertise and donation of time and materials as we have upgraded our athletic facilities.  They transformed an open field into an excellent facility for baseball and are currently in the process of recreating our seating area for our athletic field.  Neither of these projects would have happened without their contributions neighboring in the area of $100,000.  Beyond their donations, Dave Rule has also contributed many hours of his time to the planning of these facilities.

Nominated by Jeff Jacobson, district administrator

Grace Lutheran Communities – Grace Lutheran Communities has partnered with the Eau Claire Area School District to initiate a Certified Nursing Assistant Youth Apprenticeship program for our students. This partnership also includes a coordination with the UW-Eau Claire Upward Bound program, making the program an example of how Grace Lutheran Communities and the Eau Claire Area School District is working to be inclusive and to ensure that opportunities are provided to students from all backgrounds.

Wisconsin Restaurant Association – The Wisconsin Restaurant Association has given countless hours to partnering with the Eau Claire Area School District in an effort to improve upon the culinary classrooms in the district. Their continued work has helped to evaluate plans, strategize fundraising, and support our student’s diverse needs as we work to provide industry-relevant education to our students.

Reality Works – Reality Works has a longstanding partnership with the Eau Claire Area School District to provide opportunities for select students to work as engineers, enabling those students to learn industry standards, time management, problem solving, and how to leverage creativity and technology to design or test innovative products. Our students have had the opportunity to design products that are eventually manufactured for sale and were recently invited to demonstrate some of these products for the Governor.

Metropolis Resort/Action City – Metropolis Resort/Action City partners with the Eau Claire Area School District in a couple of meaningful ways. Safety patrol students from elementary schools from across the district attend a celebration for their work at Action City at the end of every year. This event helps to reward students for conscientious work and helps the district build a culture of safety and student ownership. As a great community member, Action City gives our school district a partner rate for this event which allows it to be sustainable. Metropolis Resort/Action City also provides Youth Apprenticeship opportunities in hospitality for students interested in pursuing a career in hospitality management.

Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association – The Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association represents hundreds of construction and construction-related businesses in our area. In order to extend work-based learning opportunities for our students, and to ensure that the opportunity has the greatest possible benefit to each participating student, the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association coordinates Youth Apprenticeship applications in carpentry, electrician, and plumbing and works to fit the right student with the right employer in the area.

Nominated by Mary Ann Hardebeck, superintendent.

Today’s TMJ4 – In its work on student career exploration, Greendale Schools developed community partnership teams. The group, featuring professionals in media and communications, was led by Today’s TMJ4 News Anchor Vince Vitrano. TMJ4 hosted more than 100 students from Greendale High School Speech and Communication, Theater, Publications, Photo and Graphic Design classes at its studios (Milwaukee’s Radio City) to learn about various career opportunities in the media. The students spent close to a half-day touring where, guided by Vitrano, they visited radio and television operations, and watched the “Live at Noon” news broadcast from inside the studio and the control room. Vitrano highlighted the various jobs both on air and behind the scenes and discussed education required for them. Work on a media careers panel discussion opportunity that will take place in the coming year is ongoing. TMJ4 and Vitrano have supported Greendale Schools by acting as the emcee for Greendale Education Foundation and YEA Greendale events.

Southeast Wisconsin Carpentry Training Center – Greendale Schools partnered with five union training centers to offer students a unique experience to explore opportunities in the trades in the summer of 2018. The Southeast Wisconsin Carpentry Training Center, under the leadership of Joelle Hunter, served as a strong advocate and active promoter of the Summer Trades Institute, from developing the concept for the program and being actively involved in planning the experience for students, to working on logistical elements like the union members paying for the lunch for students.

During the trades institute, students learned about the apprenticeship program, completed simple rough construction, and created a speaker box requiring some finish carpentry work. Students feedback reflected a positive experience and surprise at the scope of opportunities through the training center. The District and trades partners are excited to plan for the summer of 2019 and make the program even better for participating students.

Drilling’s Panther Pub & Eatery – Since being established in 2013, Mike Drilling’s Panther Pub and Eatery has been a cornerstone to the community and school district. The Panther Pub itself, is an homage to Greendale Athletics and History with walls covered in Greendale memorabilia and memorable photos of current and past Greendale Teams.

Over the past few years, the Panther Pub and Eatery has always stepped up to the plate to help the Greendale School District. Whether it is offering its space to host Booster Club events, sponsoring a variety of annual Greendale Schools fundraising events, or donating thousands of dollars for new Baseball and Softball Scoreboards. The Panther Pub is always there to back the Greendale Panthers!

Nominated by Kitty Goyette, communications director.

Colony Brands – Each year Colony Brands hosts a career fair for our seniors. They provide transportation, a day long event and then for all students that attend, they give them a $350 scholarship! Colony Brands provides job shadowing, employment opportunities and career related support for our students. They are also very generous in their donations for events like post prom and other fundraising events.

Carter and Gruenewald – Carter and Gruenewald supports our students and staff through scholarships, monetary donations and career related opportunities. They support the United Way, which in turn supports our students and families. They have been long term supporters of the Juda School District.

L and S Truck Service – The L and S Truck Service business has been a long time supporter of the Juda Schools in many different areas. They provide scholarships each year to students. They have provided job opportunities and other career related supports for our students.

Rackow Family Sausages – The Rackow Family Sausages has been a supporter of the Juda Schools for many years. They have been especially supportive of the FFA Chapter and the FFA Alumni Chapter. They have donated the use of their facilities for events and have donated meals for banquets. They often donate money or items for prizes. They work with the school on fundraising opportunities.

Olin Juda Oasis – The Juda Oasis has donated money for science and technology initiatives for several years. They often donate money for sponsorships and other needs of the district. They have hosted our Spanish students in a Day of the Dead presentation.

Nominated by Traci Davis, superintendent.

Key Benefits Concept – Key Benefit Concepts has organized a “Run for Education” for the Kettle Moraine community for the last two years. The goal of the event is to bring the schools and community together to promote wellness, all while raising funds to support teacher grants and student scholarships through the Kettle Moraine Education Foundation. The event includes a Children’s Run around the Kettle Moraine High School track and a 5K run/walk around the Village of Wales. Staff members at Key Benefit Concepts coordinate all aspects of this event as a community service. This includes securing sponsorships and prizes, managing registrations, recruiting volunteers, coordinating logistics and running the actual event. We are extremely grateful for their support!

More information: https://keybenefits.com/run-for-education/ 

Aurora Medical Center Summit – Aurora has provided students with place-based learning experiences in six major areas of interest within the medical center. These experiences lead to student certification and employment as well as social emotional learning for students seeking careers within the healthcare field. Student certification is primarily in the field of nursing assistants and place-based learning has a focus of surgery, nursing, therapy, imaging, and emergency services, all allowing students the opportunity to find a taste for their career niche. Aurora has opened its doors to learning and exploration, allowing our students a better understanding of who they are as people and who they want to become as professionals.

Lake Country Fire and Rescue – Lake country Fire and Rescue has provided students with place-based learning experiences in emergency and rescue services. These experiences lead to student certification and employment as well as social emotional learning for students seeking careers within the healthcare field. Student certification is primarily in the field of emergency medicine, specifically EMR or first Responder and EMT, Emergency Medical Technician -Basic. Additional place-based learning has a focus of certifying all students in CPR and providing students with hands and minds on opportunities within emergency services. LCF&R has opened its doors to learning and exploration, allowing our students a better understanding of who they are as people and who they want to become as professionals.

Nominated by Pat Deklotz, superintendent.

Dunn Energy Cooperative and Water Source Heating and Cooling – According to the Dunn County News, in a collaboration, Dunn Energy Cooperative, Water Source Heating and Cooling of Eau Claire, and the School District of the Menomonie Area have successfully completed a project insuring renewable energy for years to come for the district.

Through a grant from the Dunn Energy Cooperative’s Operation Round Up program and the resources of Jesse Green from Water Source Heating and Cooling, the Bjornson Education-Recreation Center — known locally as the Environmental Site — has installed a 3kW photovoltaic array.

This, along with the School District’s participation in the Dunn Energy SunDEC Community Solar array, brings the Environmental Site to a 100 percent renewable status.

See the full article here: https://chippewa.com/dunnconnect/business/community-partnership-yields-solar-power-at-sdma-s-environmental-site/article_02ec4f92-f69a-5d30-bf2a-d6a40d5900eb.html

Nominated by Joe Zydowsky , superintendent.

UW Credit Union – UW Credit Union established its first branch in a public school at Middleton High School in early 2018. They hired MHS students to work at the branch and other nearby locations. They bring staff in to help with financial literacy curriculum. They made scholarships available to graduating seniors. And they helped with the cost of not only constructing the branch office but relocating the athletics concession stand that had been in that location.

 Integral Building Systems – IBS has partnered with us to implement structured low-voltage cabling plants in several of our schools. They are highly professional and provide exceptional value. They have also taken an active interest in our District by providing digital signage at West Middleton Elementary School.

Fleet Feet Sports – Fleet Feet Sports, 8440 Old Sauk Road, Middleton, has been instrumental in helping with the Run-Walk-Move event at Northside Elementary School. Fleet Feet has donating time, staff, tents and race bibs.

Singlewire Software – Singlewire is our partner in providing public address and automated communication and building access response capabilities to our communication systems. They have been instrumental in helping us design a responsive and agile system that allows us to quickly and effectively communicate in and respond to crisis situations, making our schools much safer.

All Channel Electronics – All Channel has been a partner of the District for more than 20 years. They handle most of our safety and security functions within the District. They have become a respected company within the community by being helpful, knowledgeable, trustworthy and reasonable.

Nominated by Perry Hibner, community and media relations.

Milton Area Chamber of Commerce – The Milton Area Chamber of Commerce (MACC) has supported district initiatives and promoted student learning. Several of MACC’s nearly business members have helped provide student learning opportunities in our ever-growing area of school to career programming, including youth apprenticeships, as well as job shadows. MACC also provides 3 scholarships to graduating seniors, in addition to providing guest speakers in our financial literacy class and reality check school to career programs.

Nominated by Tim Schigur, district administrator.

Kohl’s – The Kohl’s team has consistently looked to make MPS teachers’ and administrators’ dreams come true. Last year, Kohl’s donated 10,000 stuffed backpacks to MPS. This gift was valued at over $350,000 and made it possible for the district to present a backpack to every K4, K5 and 1st grade student in the district. This year, the Product Development team is exercising their extraordinary creativity to beautify 4 MPS schools. Murals, room refreshes, outdoor space sprucing and even a chain link mural are among the projects teams of Kohl’s employees will implement. The icing on the cake is that for every 5 volunteers Kohl’s sends to work at MPS schools, $500 will be donated.

The Salvation Army/WISN Channel 12 – For the past 6 years, the Salvation Army in partnership with WISN Channel 12 has raised funds through their phone bank and “stuff the bus” efforts for Milwaukee Public Schools. Each year, students at several MPS schools receive stuffed backpacks. The longevity of this relationship in addition to the significant impact on the students of MPS makes the Salvation Army and WISN worthy of this nomination.

Al Hurvis/ADAMM Education Foundation – The Al Hurvis/ADAMM Education Foundation is a new partner for MPS that has in a very short time, made a huge impact. The Foundation provided $5,000 in sponsorship to ensure that all MPS high school students were able to attend the district’s first Student Job Fair. The Foundation covered all costs to transport students to and from each MPS high school and also served as a vendor to help identify students for employment opportunities with the local ADAMM dealerships. The Job Fair was held at the UW-Milwaukee Student Union. In addition, the Foundation provides MPS college-bound seniors with academic scholarships. The Foundation has adopted an MPS school as part of the Adopt-a-School/Business Partners Program. Through this relationship, regular and on-going support has been provided to meet the academic and extra-curricular needs of the middle school students of Milwaukee School of Languages.

The Milwaukee Bucks – The Milwaukee Bucks, through their Corporate Social Responsibility arm, provided support to MPS’ attendance program by encouraging signature players to meet with students, have provided an endless supplies of tickets, Bucks swag and unique opportunities for students. Members of the CSR team personally mentored MPS students, participated in MPS’ Day One and Read Across America volunteer opportunities, participated as a Student Job Fair vendor, and arranged opportunities for members of the MPS high school basketball teams to meet and talk with Bucks alumni such as Kareem Abdul Jabar, Sidney Moncrief and Michael Redd. The Bucks offered volunteers to refresh the playground of Golda Meir elementary school and gave an MPS student the opportunity of a lifetime to meet and shadow a Bucks announcer.

Nominated by Kellie Sigh, director of the division of customer service.

Badger Welding – Badger Welding of Mineral Point has been a great partner for the welding classes at MPHS. When the school installed a new laser cutter, employees helped set it up and provided training with students. They have been wonderful mentors and a great support system for students interested in welding.

Midwest Roofing – Midwest Roofing of Dodgeville is a Victory Club Donor for the Stadium Project, the second highest donation level available. Their support was key in helping the fundraising project come to fruition, with the first varsity football game being played on the field end of August 2018. Their services were also utilized for a summer roofing project this year at the middle/high school building.

Orthopedic Institute at Southwest Health – Mineral Point School District has a fabulous relationship with the Orthopedic Institute at Southwest Health in Platteville. Coaches and students find Athletic Trainer Brad Vamstad a valuable asset to the district, being knowledgeable, friendly, and diligent with his work. In addition, the Orthopedic Institute at Southwest Health is a Championship Club Donor for the Stadium Project, the highest donation level available. Their support was key in helping the fundraising project come to fruition, with the first varsity football game being played on the field end of August 2018. Southwest Health is also welcoming of our students interested in science and healthcare to tour their facilities to learn more about these career paths. Also new this past spring was a scholarship available for MPHS Seniors from Southwest Health.

SSM Health – SSM Health (formerly Dean) is a Championship Club Donor for the Stadium Project, the highest donation level available. Their support was key in helping the fundraising project come to fruition, with the first varsity football game being played on the field end of August 2018. In addition, the SSM Dean Clinic in Mineral Point is very generous in allowing one of their employees, Dr. Aaron Dunn, to serve as a voluntary sideline physician for football games.

Nominated by Joelle Doye, communications director.

D & S Machine Service – On Wednesday, August 8th at Mishicot High School, Mr. and Mrs. Russell Nowak, owners of D&S Machine Service of Luxemburg presented Mishicot High School with a donation of new milling equipment in the amount of $105,690.00. The new equipment includes:

1. A Hass CNC Toolroom Lathe

2. A Hass Mini VMC

3. A Multipurpose Milling Machine

4. 2 3 Axis Digital Read out metal Lathes

5. 2 Haas Simulators

Mishicot High School has established itself as a leader in providing students with a strong Career and Technical Education (CTE) experience. We provide opportunities for Youth Apprenticeship placements in multiple career fields including manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, education and construction.

Paul Orlich, Superintendent of Mishicot School District, explained “We are creating opportunities and partnership with business to supply them with a workforce to continue to ensure that our area business prosper. “ Orlich said “If the kids don’t have access to the newest manufacturing tools then we are unable to interest them to pursue a career in the industry, with this contribution, it enables Mishicot to have that ability. Mishicot High School is very fortunate to have been chosen by D & S Machine Service to have this opportunity to provide more relevant educational experiences for their students.

Progress Lakeshore a partner with Mishicot School District stated that getting students to have hands on experience on the news equipment, shows the students how those skills may translate into a career, is imperative. Seeing this contribution of manufacturing equipment is a significant step in moving Mishicot High School forward as a leader in providing new innovative manufacturing education to our community.

KNM Machining and Industrial Maintenance – KNM donated 10 electrical test panels valued at $7,500.00 to our technical education program. These panels were manufactured by KNM specifically for our programs need.

Nominated by Paul Orlich, superintendent.

Marquis Energy-Wisconsin LLC – Marquis Energy has provided ongoing support to students through learning lunches, in which students can learn about the business and job opportunities, local scholarships, industry tours, and a recent sizable donation to create a middle school makerspace lab. These student-centered benefits would not be possible without their wonderful partnership. Marquis Energy has also partnered with the school district to assist with safety plans and training. We are proud to consider Marquis Energy a reliable partner that consistently serves the best interests of students and the larger school community. In a small rural school district, these partnerships are especially valued, and should be honored and celebrated.

Nominated by Tanya Kotlowski, superintendent.

PPG Industries – PPG Industries has been an instrumental partner in education for the Oak Creek-Franklin Joint School District for a number of years. During the 2017-2018 school year, PPG donated over $37,000 to the district. PPG continues to be a strong supporter of Oak Creek High School’s Knight Construction Program and STEM Club. PPG also serves on the high school’s Career and Technical Education Advisory Board Committee and participated in the Department’s first Interview Summit.

Martin Law Office – Martin Law Office continues to be a strong supporter of the Oak Creek High School athletics program, including being an anchor sponsor for the new video display scoreboards at Knight Community Stadium and in the high school gym.

Midwest Orthopedic Specialty Hospital – Midwest Orthopedic Specialty Hospital has been a strong supporter of the athletics program at Oak Creek High School for a number of years. As an anchor sponsor for the new video display scoreboards at Knight Community Stadium and in the high school main gym, Midwest Orthopedic Specialty Hospital continues to show their support for Oak Creek High School.

Educators Credit Union – Educators Credit Union is a great resource for the Career and Technical Education (CTE) department of Oak Creek High School. In addition to serving on the Oak Creek High School CTE Advisory Board, Educators Credit Union also participated in the school’s Interview Summit, providing students with the opportunity to participate in mock interviews. Educators Credit Union also partners with Oak Creek High School to provide students with work-based learning opportunities through the Youth Apprenticeship program.

Ebenezer Child Care – Ebenezer Child Care is a valued partner of Oak Creek High School’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) department. During the 2017-2018 school year, Ebenezer served on the CTE Advisory Board and participated in the department’s Interview Summit. Ebenezer also provides opportunities for high school students to complete hours necessary to earn industry-recognized credentials.

Nominated by Lindsey Ziarnik, communications specialist.

Generac Power Systems, Inc. – Generac Power Systems has generously supported our district in a variety of capacities. This recent partnership has provided financial and educational support for our students and families. Kelly Davis, Community Relations Program Manager for Generac, has been instrumental in forging these opportunities. Several engineers from the company led engaging and hands-on activities during the Eagle Elementary S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Mathematics) afternoon. Another Generac professional read a favorite book to students during the school’s annual D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything And Read) event. Generac has purchased gifts for area families during the holiday season. They have graciously sponsored our district newsletter and calendar. Additionally, the organization has donated funds for our annual Athletic Booster Club golf outing, Project Graduation and track resurfacing project. This year the corporation also provided two substantial scholarships for graduating seniors.

Fort HealthCare – Fort HealthCare has recently become a valued business partner for our school district. The Pediatric Wellness Team from the local healthcare provider hosted a Health PEP Rally for both Eagle and Palmyra Elementary Schools. The program focused on three issues related to healthy choices: Play more, Eat right, and Push away the screen. The event shared those messages through age-appropriate fun and games. The company also lent their Railyard Fitness System to both schools. This indoor obstacle course was utilized during physical education class and incorporated a whole workout disguised as fun. Fort HealthCare additionally sponsored and staffed two free open gyms for public use to utilize the apparatus. The organization also supports the district in a financial sense by sponsoring our district newsletter, calendar and athletic programs. Palmyra-Eagle has also been fortunate to successfully contract our athletic trainer and district nurse with Fort HealthCare for multiple years.

Standard Process, Inc. – Standard Process has been a longstanding partner with the Palmyra-Eagle Area School District. The large local business annually gifts funds to the Powers Memorial Library in Palmyra to be used at the Scholastic Book Fair held at Palmyra Elementary which supports the reading curriculum at the school. The company frequently organizes school supply drives for the elementary schools. Standard Process provides significant financial support for our district in several means. Our high school athletic complex and Palmyra Elementary playground were enhanced by contributions from the organization. Sizeable donations are made to the high school Project Graduation event and several valuable scholarships are presented to the graduating seniors. Our district is fortunate to have the corporation continually sponsor our district newsletter. Standard Process also generously sponsors multiple district families in need during the holiday season.

Pleasant Valley Acres, LLC – Pleasant Valley Acres has been a key supporter of the Palmyra-Eagle Area School District for many years. This local farm is a tremendous asset for the district’s FFA (Future Farmers of America) program. The company regularly offers an apprenticeship opportunity for high school students. Educational field trips to the farm are enjoyed by many of our elementary classes. Tom and Tracey Novak, the owners, generously donate pumpkins and other goods for the Palmyra Elementary Monster Mash and additional district events. The couple has also brought several of their livestock to our FFA sponsored Petting Zoos and Agriculture Adventure Day and taught students about the animals and life on the farm. Pleasant Valley Acres also generously sponsors our district newsletter and calendars on a regular basis.

Nominated by Stephanie Schroeder, public relations specialist.

BayTek Games – BayTek Games supports our schools and district through their time in volunteering in our school buildings, their resources by allowing their employees to make donations via the company, providing games for school and community events, and financially as a company by reaching out to meet the needs in our schools by repurposing resources from the company that we can use or by sponsoring needs identified within the district. We can always count on BayTek Games to be there as a community partner!

MCL Industries – MCL Industries supports our schools and district through their time in volunteering in our school buildings, their resources by allowing their employees to make donations via the company, providing access to equipment that helps our students be ready for the workforce, and financially as a company by reaching out to meet the needs in our schools by repurposing resources from the company that we can use or by sponsoring needs identified within the district. We can always count on MCL Industries to be there as a community partner!

Cousins Subs and Figaro’s Pizza of Pulaski – Cousin’s Subs and Figaro’s Pizza of Pulaski provide endless support for our students, schools and community. Not only do they generously donate food for school events or for families experiencing trauma, they also provide mentorship and a workplace experience for students through a program called “Pizza Works.” Cindy and Doug also support our student athletes through the Red Raider Field of Dreams which Cindy is a member of the steering committee which has brought new outdoor athletic facilities to the district through community funding.

Prevea Health – Prevea Health has partnered with the Pulaski Community School District in many ways to serve our students, staff and community. For many years, Prevea Health has been building relationships with our students by providing trusted care through our athletic training staff. In recent years, this has expanded to provide greater resources in terms of strength training expertise to assist our coaches in best serving our athletes and CPR training for our students and staff. In January 2018, we started an on-site behavioral care service for our students through Prevea to provide access to mental health services for district students within one of our school buildings.

Bode Boot Camp – PCSD students who engage in alternative physical education classes to adapt to their individual ability have had the unique experience of working out with trainers and staff at Bode Boot Camp along with their teachers and mentors. The staff at Bode provide support and encouragement to our students and have shared with us how this program provides benefits not only for our students and staff but for their staff and trainers as well. We appreciate their partnership!

Nominated by Bec Kurzynske, superintendent.

Kaul Enterprises – The Kaul family has been a strong, long time supporter of the River Valley School District.

Straka Meats – Straka Meats has been a strong, long time supporter of the River Valley School District.

Prem Meats – Prem Meats has been a strong, long time supporter of the River Valley School District.

Gauger & Son Salvage, Inc. – Gauger & Son Salvage, Inc. has been a strong, long time supporter of the River Valley School District.

Sew What Embroidery – Sew What Embroidery has been a strong, long time supporter of the River Valley School District.

Nominated by Brian Krey, business manager.

Serigraph, Inc. – Serigraph, Inc is a graphics part manufacturer established in 1949 in West Bend. Serigraph services companies throughout the world designing, developing, printing, forming, and molding projects from conception to completion. They have continuously evolved with the industry, offering a variety of career opportunities for chemists, engineers, machinists, graphic designers and account managers. John Torinus, CEO for 20 years and current Chairman of the Board, is an active, engaged business leader who consistently seeks to partner and volunteer within the West Bend School District. Through the CTE department and youth apprentice options, Serigraph introduces high school students to a variety of skilled trades and career paths. It is a common occurrence to see students from the high schools’ graphics and manufacturing department touring Serigraph. Serigraph has long supported local and statewide workforce development efforts and seeks to partner with the school district to empower students with the skills necessary to become future Serigraph employees. In addition, Mr. Torinus has particular skills in the area of strategic planning and consumer-driven health care plans and willingly volunteers his expertise to the school board and district administration. He has been a vocal advocate for positive, school board leadership that focuses on community values, long-term vision, and student achievement. Serigraph celebrates an educated, creative, skilled workforce and recognizes strong public schools are a cornerstone to a successful, productive community.

West Bend Mutual Insurance Company – West Bend Mutual Mutual Insurance is the epitome of a generous, hospitable community business partner. Most notably this year, they served as the educational center for the inaugural year of Project SEARCH. Mutual hosted nine students from Washington County, providing them with specific skills training in a variety of departments throughout the company. The year-end celebration was a graduation ceremony at West Bend Mutual with the keynote address given by Governor Walker. In addition, the company provides numerous apprenticeship and internship options for high school and college students. Mutual is an integral part of the West Bend community and seeks to forge partnerships that strengthen our local workforce. They can often be found supporting WBSD fundraisers for the educational foundation, scholarship programs, arts and athletics. Mutual CEO Kevin Steiner, father of 4 West Bend grads, has provided school board development training over the years; his leadership is credited for the company’s positive culture as a top workplace in southeastern Wisconsin. During the district’s recent superintendent search, Mutual provided meeting accommodations that showcased the valuable relationships that exist between local businesses and the school district. They continue to be generous supporters of the MACC Fund, sponsoring community blood drives in honor of Team L&B, two local middle-school students and sisters battling leukemia. West Bend Mutual has a positive energy and spirit that reaches across our community and school district. The WBSD is grateful and humbled by the continuous support of such a successful, local organization.

Nominated by Tiffany Larson, school board president.