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Today is Monday, October 12, 2026
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Congratulations Silvia Harris, Lucy Davis, Margaret Brown, and Grace Coleman for being selected to represent Whitewater High School at Badger Girls State in 2025!
Badger Girls State is a program designed to develop leadership skills in high school students and train future stateswomen in the science of government. The program will be held at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh from June 15-20. Participants are chosen for their interest in the American Government and their outstanding qualities of leadership, character, cooperativeness, dependability, and participation in extracurricular activities. Thank you to the Whitewater American Legion and Whitewater Rotary Club for sponsoring our awesome delegates again this year! Congratulations!
As was previously announced on the Banner, on October 23 Laura Masbruch was surprised to learn at an all-school assembly that she had been honored with WI Most Valuable Educator Award from TDS Telecom. Masbruch was informed that TDS would be treating her to two tickets to a Packer game as well as the opportunity for around 25 students to travel with her to Lambeau on a charter bus for a tour with a Packers alum and lunch.
“Part I” of the Packers connection took place on January 5. Laura told The Whitewater Banner that she and her sister Jane “were treated to an experience…that included an indoor all you could eat/drink tailgate party, sideline passes for the pre-game warm-ups, and seats on the 50-yard line. TDS also sent us some Packer gear.”
The high school staff decided that the “Part II” trip would be one of the incentives to encourage students to maintain good attendance. The trip will be hosted by Masbruch on February 20.
Kate McNulty, WHS associate principal, told The Banner, “In line with our district goals, we are working to improve overall attendance and decrease habitual absenteeism. At WHS, our attendance goal for the 2024-25 school year is 95%. Last year our goal was 92% and we hit it easily, so we decided to increase it for this year. As a part of that goal, we are having a monthly incentive drawing for students who have [at least a] 95% attendance rate. Each month we’ve done different rewards for the drawings from lunch on us (we order pizza or subs), t-shirts, and special lunch privileges. As for the Packer fieldtrip, students who maintained a 95% attendance rate for the entire 1st semester will have that as an option to select.
We did hold a 95% attendance rate in September, October, and November but unfortunately due to lots of illness, we did dip to a little below 93% in December. The incentives alone are not to credit for this. Additionally, we are making a concerted effort to remind students and families about the value of attendance by regularly sharing Attendance Matters information through our webpage and parent newsletter. Additionally, we host bi-weekly meetings with the Student Services team to discuss attendance issues and monthly we have a district attendance task force consisting of leadership from each building that meets to problem solve challenges and develop consistent practices.”
This past weekend 4 WHS students, Ayden Clark, Alex Clarksen, Sam Nickelsburg, and Willow Vogelzang, performed in the Wisconsin Choral Directors Association (WCDA) All State Treble Choir and All State Bass Choir. The students had the opportunity to work with some of the best college choral directors from across the country and attend performances of other WCDA honors choirs featured at the conference including the world-famous Latvian youth choir BALSIS. Student expressed how inspiring and motivational the experience was, and how they never wanted to leave. Here are two short clips, one for each choir.
Article and Videos Submitted by MacKenzie Gehrke
Whitewater High School Vocal Music Teacher
gehma01@wwusd.org
The Whitewater Girls’ Wrestling Team had a busy week starting off with a trip to Lodi on Monday night, January 6, and closed it out with a 39-team tournament at Muskego on Saturday, January 11. Both of these events were very good for the girls as they had the opportunity to see some teams that they will be training to compete against in the tournament series which is a month away.
The girls wrestled well at Lodi coming in 3rd place out of the 8 teams competing. A’Lani Ross led the way for the Whippets going 3-0 on the night with two pins. Ema Aranda followed by going 2-1 on the night with 2 pins as well. Also going 2-1 was Payton Taylor who had a couple of very good matches that forced her to stay in good position in the closing moments to maintain her lead. She showed good shot defense which was nice to see as it is something we as a team have worked on for the girls.
On Saturday our girls then traveled to Muskego to compete in the 2025 Warrior Cup Girls’ Invitational. The tournament featured 39 teams from both large and small schools. Going into this event, our girls recognized that it would be a challenging day. Eleven girls participated, and they all agreed that their goals were to maintain a positive attitude and put in their best effort. With this focus, they knew they would wrestle well.
Leading the team was sophomore Ema Aranda, who achieved four impressive victories, propelling her to the championship match, where she fought hard but ultimately finished in second place. A’Lani Ross secured fourth place, gaining positive experiences that will help her improve her wrestling skills. Marianna Kubicz also finished in fourth place. As a team, the girls ended up in eighth place out of 39 teams.
This tournament was an excellent opportunity for the girls to identify areas for improvement both as individuals and as a team. They understand that some of their competitors that day will likely be the same ones they face at the end of the season. The girls are eager to rise to the challenge, work hard, and enhance their wrestling skills as the season progresses.
Article by John Schimming
Whitewater High School Head Wrestling Coach
jschimming@wwusd.org
During the recent Wisconsin Cross Country Coach Association Clinic in Brookfield, the Academic All-State Teams were announced.
The 2024 team of Jack Hefty, Xavier Zei, Miles Nickelsburg, Luc Pomazak, Andrew O’Toole, Onyx Thompson, and Isaac Straight was not only outstanding on race day but also in the classroom. They were so good that they finished third overall across the entire state in division two! Their team GPA of 3.89 is simply outstanding and the epitome of student-athletes.
Congratulations, guys!
Final standings
1. University School of Milwaukee 3.98
2. West Salem 3.92
3. Whitewater 3.89
4. Rhinelander 3.83
5. Monroe 3.80
6. New London 3.80
7. Dodgeville/Mineral Point 3.78
8. New Berlin Eisenhower 3.71
9. Port Washington 3.70
10. Chilton 3.68
11. Osceola 3.68
12. Watertown Luther Prep 3.67
13. Mauston 3.52
Article and Photo Submitted by Chad Carstens
Whitewater High School Head Cross Country Coach
ccarstens@wwusd.org
Join us for an Open House for our NEW Assisted Living on Wednesday, January 15th from 4:00-6:00 pm. The response from those already on our 4th Floor has been amazing and we’re looking forward to seeing who is next to join the Fairhaven Family!
For more information contact Brian Robinson, robinsonb@fairhaven.org or 262-473-2140.
Fairhaven, 435 W. Starin Road, Whitewater
The Whitewater Unified School District School Board has approved a $30 million capital referendum question that will appear on the ballot Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
If approved by voters, the referendum will fund a series of improvement projects across the district’s schools. This includes replacing outdated heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems; repairing roofs; upgrading electrical and plumbing systems; replacing windows; enhancing safety and security; updating the high school auditorium; updating the auditorium space; and expanding/improving the Career and Technical Education space.
“Whitewater schools are known for providing students with an exceptional learning environment that supports their growth and potential,” said Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty, Superintendent. “While we address facility and maintenance needs where we can, some projects exceed what our operational budget can support. This is why we will be engaging with community members about the ways a capital referendum could position WUSD for continued success.”
WUSD partnered with Bray Architects to conduct a comprehensive assessment of its facilities, identifying priority areas for improvement. The full facility report is available at https://bit.ly/WUSDfacilities.
If the referendum is approved, the projected tax impact for the 2025-26 school year would be $.47 per $1,000 of estimated fair market value for a home within the district. For a home assessed at $300,000, this would result in an increase of $141 per year ($11.75 per month).
A fall survey, conducted by an independent firm and garnering 832 responses, found that 69% of WUSD parents residing in the district said they would definitely or probably support a $32 million capital referendum. Support for a referendum among respondents who are not parents or staff was at 43%. Voter approval of at least 50% is necessary for capital referendums to be approved.
The district will share more information about its facility needs and the proposed solution in the weeks ahead. This will include a webpage featuring answers to frequently asked questions.
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater will host the first-ever Youth Safety Summit on February 20-21, 2025, at Wilderness Resort in Wisconsin Dells.
For more than 50 years, the UW-Whitewater’s Continuing Education Services (CES) department has offered athletic, arts, academic and enrichment programs for youth. In recent years, CES has prioritized protecting and empowering youth in their camps, clinics, and events, and now leads the way in sharing expertise.
The Youth Safety Summit is offered by UW-Whitewater in partnership with Tree House Child and Family Center, National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and the Universities of Wisconsin. Session presenters include experts from all organizations, and those from legal, mental health, and substance abuse fields.
“Protecting young people, in our community, and all educational and recreational settings – especially rural and under-resourced K-12 and nonprofit organizations – is of the utmost importance,” said Corey King, chancellor at UW-Whitewater. “We must continually review, assess, and adapt our practices to stay at the forefront of youth safety. Our local partnership with Tree House Child and Family Center makes important events like this summit possible.”
The Youth Safety Summit was developed to bring experts and innovative strategies to the people who work with kids in all different settings and situations. Critical topics such as mental health awareness, digital safety, and emergency preparedness are some of the topics that will be covered. Staff at school districts and youth-serving organizations are encouraged to attend this pioneering event to strengthen our shared commitment to the well-being of the youngest members of our communities.
Staff from the Badgerland Council of Girl Scouts will be attending the summit in February.
“I know the interactive sessions and case studies at the summit will help staff build practical skills, like conflict resolution, crisis intervention, and responding to safety concerns in a proactive and culturally competent manner,” said Nick Harnish, director of education at Badgerland Council. “The team will have the opportunity to connect with other organizations and broaden our network, potentially leading to collaborations, shared resources, and innovative ideas for promoting youth safety.”
On Thursday, Feb. 20, youth leaders are invited to a pre-conference on youth mental health first aid during the morning session. The program is designed for adults who regularly interact with young people, giving them a 5-step action plan for how to help youth in crisis and non-crisis situations. Participants who successfully complete the pre-work and conference session will be certified in youth mental health first aid through the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.
The main conference begins Thursday afternoon and continues through Friday, Feb. 21. The summit will feature a keynote address on peer-to-peer abuse by Glen Pounder, the Chief Safeguarding Officer for Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts). Additional session topics include navigating legal landscapes, responding to child abuse disclosures, and signs of child maltreatment.
Further information about the Youth Safety Summit may be found here. Registration is open at that site until February 13.
About Warhawk Camps
Since 1973, Continuing Education Services has hosted summer camps and clinics on the Whitewater and Rock County campuses. In 2023, more than 6,700 people experienced summer programming, breaking past participation records. Athletic, academic, arts, and enrichment programs are offered every summer for lifelong learners of all ages, in state-of-the-art facilities, with inclusivity, belonging, and safety as core priorities.
Registration for UW-Whitewater’s youth summer camps — where youth protection is a priority — is now open for more than 70 #WarhawkCamps. Children of all ages and abilities are welcome for summer programs ranging from game development to gymnastics, from band to basketball. For more information, visit www.uww.edu/ce/camps/.
About UW-Whitewater
At the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater we inspire, engage and transform lives. Our higher education mission began more than 150 years ago — and we now serve more than 11,000 students at our Whitewater and Rock County campuses, 90% of whom stay in the region after earning their degree. More than 170 undergraduate and graduate majors and minors are offered as well as an education specialist and a doctoral degree. The Warhawk family — led by caring faculty and staff — is devoted to student success within a broad range of academic programs. One of only four Public Colleges of Distinction in the state, the university boasts small class sizes (20:1 ratio), is ranked one of the top public universities in the Midwest by the U.S. News & World Report and is the top-ranked college in the state for serving students with disabilities.
Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the image on the home page by Ortrun Lenz from Pixabay.
Obituaries
Sally A. Schutte, age 73, of Whitewater, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on September 21, 2026, while at Hearthstone Memory Care in Whitewater. Sally was born on November 6, 1952, to Roy and Elsie (Rohloff) Haas. Sally married William Schutte in the spring of 2003. Sally grew up on the family farm in the Town of Hebron and graduated from Jefferson High School. She dedicated nearly her entire career to Fort HealthCare, where her hard work and versatility shone through various roles. Over the years, she served in housekeeping and medical records, Center for Dermatology. Sally … Read more
Zachariah “Zach” Schoenke, 41, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. He was born April 4, 1985, to Keith W. Schoenke and Kathleen Schoenke in Fort Atkinson, WI. He grew up and graduated from Whitewater High School in 2003. Zach worked various jobs over the years but was currently working at Cracker Barrel in Janesville. He was a big Packers Fan and liked to play fantasy football. He enjoyed reading, cooking, and watching horror shows. Zach fiercely loved his son, Lincoln, his sisters, Cami and Cary, his mom and stepdad, and his aunt Robin. He will be dearly … Read more
Carla Winn, 82, died September 5, 2026. Funeral Service will be at 12:00 PM, Saturday, September 12, 2026, at East Heights United Methodist Church, 4407 E Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67218, followed by a burial at 2:00 PM at White Chapel Memorial Garden 1806 N Oliver Ave. Carla is preceded in death by her parents, Vivian Dwight and Wilma Lois Krehbiel; and sister, Jennifer Krehbiel. She is survived by husband, Stephen; daughter, Ashley (Clint) Gagel, of Overland Park; siblings, Paul (Kay) Krehbiel, of Socorro, NM, Lynn (Bill) Oetting, of Wichita, Ellen (John) Querner, of Wichita, Teresa Woodson, of Lawrence, KS, … Read more
Susan Miller Celebration of Life There will be a gathering of friends and acquaintances at Susan’s Farm Store to celebrate Susan’s life on Saturday, September 19th from 2-5 p.m. at N6623 Lake Lorraine Rd., Delavan, Wisconsin
Our loving mother, JoAnn E Harrop, age 95, passed away on September 11, 2026. Our sorrow is deep, but we are filled with gratitude for the many years we had with her. Even as her mind was failing, she remained strong and appreciative of all who cared for her. JoAnn was born on January 13, 1931, daughter to Fred Braun and Evelyn Braun {Storck). She was raised in Whitewater, Wisconsin by her grandparents, Otto and Edith Storck. She attended Whitewater High School and helped at the Storck tavern where she met her husband Earl C. Harrop. They married on November … Read more
Russell O. Johnson “Russ,” 88, passed away on September 4, 2026 in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Russell was born on July 12, 1938, in Janesville, Wisconsin. Russ grew up in Janesville, and after high school he joined the Air Force on May 1, 1958, serving as an aircraft mechanic until June 12, 1962. He then worked at Parker Pen in Janesville for a time, where he met his future wife, Avis. After marrying Avis Mason in April 1964, Russ worked for Gillman Manufacturing for a time, then began a career at Dana until its closing in 1980. In 1981, Russ started working … Read more
Marcia Zingg, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, businesswoman, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, at the age of 75. Marcia will be remembered for her unwavering love, remarkable strength, generous spirit, and lifelong devotion to her family. She shared 40 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Jeffrey Zingg, who considered her not only his wife but also his best friend, business partner, and the love of his life. Together, Marcia and Jeffrey built a successful life rooted in perseverance, hard work, laughter, and love. As entrepreneurs in Whitewater, Wisconsin, they owned and managed new car franchises and … Read more
Amanda Jean Hunter was born to Ralph and Malinda (Thomas) Hunter of Whitewater, Wisconsin, on October 6, 1976. She passed away on August 4, in Fort Worth, Texas, where she lived with her family. Amanda passed peacefully in the hospital, surrounded by her loved ones. Amanda was a kind-hearted free spirit with an unmistakable hippie warmth. Generosity, spontaneity, a quick wit, a macabre sense of humor, and an open heart were traits that she embraced. She was a tireless champion of those in need, an innate characteristic that became among the best of her qualities. She proved to be a … Read more
Ellen Eichmiller, 82, of Whitewater, Wisconsin, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Ellen was born on September 10, 1943, in Monroe, Wisconsin, to Chester “Guy” and Irene (née Holmen) Steig. She married the love of her life, Paul Eichmiller, on December 7, 1963, and together they made their home in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Ellen spent much of her working life as a secretary at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, where she formed many lasting friendships and memories. Ellen cherished her family and friends and treasured the time she spent with those closest to her. She was known for her love of … Read more
Janet Quinn, age 71, of Jefferson passed away on Thursday, August 20th. Janet was born on December 22nd, 1954 in St. Joseph, MI to Robert Mounsey and Edith Christison Mounsey. She was a granddaughter to Herbert Bragg Mounsey, Charlotte Mounsey, and Ester Christison West. She married Michael Durden in 1979 and later married Eury Quinn Jr. (J.R.) in 1988. Janet grew up in Benton Harbor, MI, and subsequently lived in New York and Arkansas before moving to Wisconsin in 2016. She was a dedicated caregiver to her disabled Mother, and worked as a custodian for various employers over the years. … Read more
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