Mr. Mark Blauert, Principal and School ChaplainBlauert Mark 0433

Before arriving in 2018 to serve as the school chaplain at WLS, Mr. Blauert served our Lord and Savior as a teacher in California for ten years, and as a staff minister in the Las Vegas and Chicago areas for eighteen years. He earned a bachelor’s degree at Dr. Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minnesota and a master’s degree at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon, Wisconsin.

Mr. Blauert and his wife Helen have been blessed with two sons, Sam and Jack. They enjoy traveling, having been to all 50 states and about half the national parks. He enjoys playing board games, fantasy football, and following his favorite sports teams - the Packers, Brewers, Bucks, and the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

As school chaplain, Mr. Blauert’s chief objective is to help our students grow spiritually and strengthen our school families by connecting them with the Word and Sacrament through our churches, First Evangelical and Water of Life. As children matriculate through our school system, his hope and prayer is that they continue to grow on what they’ve learned at WLS, and feed their faith through regular church attendance and reading of God’s Word.

One of Mr. Blauert’s favorite sections of scripture is Psalm 46. As we live in an age of such uncertainty, and everything around us seems to be moving and changing at such a rapid pace, we can feel like the world around us could unravel at any minute. This psalm reminds us of the comfort and assurance that God is our fortress and strength, our ever-present help in trouble. Verse ten in particular stands out as God speaks to us through the words of the psalm writer, calming our troubled hearts - “be still and know that I am God.”


Mr. Jerry Marowsky, Academic Dean and ScienceMarowsky Gerald 0442

Mr. Marowsky was born in Milwaukee, WI. He attended grades K-8 at St. John's Lutheran School - Jefferson, WI. His high school education continued at Martin Luther Preparatory School - Prairie du Chien, WI. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Dr. Martin Luther College - New Ulm, MN.

Previously, Mr. Marowsky has taught various grades, five through eight, at Trinity Lutheran School - Marinette, WI; Immanuel Lutheran School - Medford, WI & St. Paul's Lutheran School - Franklin, WI.

Mr. Marowsky is the Acadmic Dean, and also teaches math and social studies to the middle school students. In addition, he works with technology integration both on the staff and student levels.

Mr. Marowsky's personal interests include Amateur Radio (FCC License: N0IMJ), bike riding and home improvement.

Hymn 573 "Hark! The Voice of Jesus Crying" of Christian Worship - A Lutheran Hymnal offers direction and purpose on a daily basis in his teaching career.


Mr. Paul Marquardt, 8th GradeMueller_22_23

Mr. Mr. Paul Marquardt was born in Elgin, Illinois and attended Lutheran schools from kindergarten through 12th grade, graduating from Shoreland Lutheran High School in Somers, Wisconsin, in 1984. He intended to make a living either playing guitar in a rock band, or as a writer/director for TV, but the Lord moved him instead to go into ministry. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in telecommunications from Indiana University in 1988, and with a degree in secondary education (history major; psychology minor) from Wisconsin Lutheran College in Milwaukee in 1990. In 2002, Mr. Marquardt graduated with a master’s degree in systematic theology from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon, WI. He holds two WI state teaching licenses, one for grades 6-12, and the other in alternative education. Mr. Marquardt taught for 17 years in WELS schools (Trinity Lutheran, Caledonia, WI; St. John’s Lutheran, Sleepy Eye, MN; and Calvary Academy, South Milwaukee, WI) and served the last 16 years as Family Minister at Garden Homes Lutheran Church & School in Milwaukee. At Garden Homes, he taught many Bible classes, served as evangelist, played guitar in worship, and ministered before our Lord in many other ways.Here at WLS, Mr. Marquardt serves as 8th grade homeroom teacher, and teaches the Word of God, social studies, writing, math, and music.

In 1990, Paul married his beloved girlfriend, Karen Harbach (Thanks be to God!). The Lord has blessed their marriage with 12 children: Christian, Kathryn, Isaiah, John, Mary, Noah, Joseph, Benjamin, Abigail, Esther, Julia, & Gideon, and 5 grandchildren. His favorite times are date nights with Karen, and family time with their children and grandchildren. In 1999, he released a Christian rock CD, Without Love, We Are Nothing, which contains 23 of his compositions. Despite their losing records, Mr. Marquardt continues to root for his favorite childhood teams, the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears. His most treasured book and source of joy, peace, and guidance is the holy Word of God.

Mr. Marquardt’s favorite Scripture verse is Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” He finds great comfort knowing that no matter what trials or challenges may face us in life, God is still in control and will surely work it out for our good.


Mr. Branden Mueller, 7th Grade and Athletic DirectorMueller_22_23

Mr. Branden Mueller grew up in Howards Grove, WI where he attended St. Paul’s Lutheran School from kindergarten to 8th grade. He then attended Manitowoc Lutheran for high school. He graduated from Martin Luther College in 2022 with a Bachelor’s Degree in secondary math education and a minor in coaching. Before coming to Wisconsin Lutheran Middle School, Branden married his wife, Nicole who teaches 7th grade at Trinity in Caledonia. 

Mr. Mueller is the 7th grade homeroom teacher. He teaches math, reading, religion, and social studies. His interests include; baseball, football, golfing, disc golfing, hiking, fishing, and many other outdoor activities. 

Mr. Mueller's favorite Bible passage is John 10: 27-28 which states, “... no one will snatch them out of my hand.”


Mrs. Ahnsharee Klusmeyer, 6th Gradeimg not available

Mrs. Klusmeyer was born in Fond du Lac, WI. She attended grades K-8 at Waucousta Lutheran Grade School in Campbellsport. She attended Winnebago Lutheran Academy in Fond du Lac and graduated in 2000. In December 2004, she graduated from Martin Luther College with a degree in Elementary Education and a background in Staff Ministry.

Mrs. Klusmeyer is the 6th grade homeroom teacher and teaches English Language Arts in 6th-8th grade. She has previously taught 1st and 2nd grade in Green Lake, WI and Schofield, WI. She has also taught 7th and 8th grade at Good Shepherd’s in West Allis and at Faith in Fond du Lac. She has had experience substitute teaching grades 4K-12th grade. 
 
She and her husband, Pastor Nathan Klusmeyer, have three children: Kaliska, TJ, and Grant. Her hobbies include cheering on her children in their various sporting and extracurricular events, spending time with her many nieces and nephews, and campfires.
 

Her favorite Bible passage is Psalm 46:1- “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” There are so many troubles and trials that we face in this life. We cannot rely on our own strength. The only way we can get through them is to lean on the strength of the Lord and seek the comfort that he only can provide.

 


Mr. Jeff Zilisch, 5th GradeZilisch Jeffrey 0456

MMr. Zilisch was born in Fort Atkinson, WI. He attended grades K-8 at St. Paul’s Lutheran School in Fort Atkinson. His high school years were spent at Lakeside Lutheran High School in Lake Mills, WI. He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education in 1988 from Dr. Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN.

Mr. Zilisch is the 5th grade Homeroom teacher and also instructs grades 3 and 4 in technology. He has experience teaching various grade levels from 4th-8th grade. He previously taught at Immanuel Lutheran School in Medford, WI, from 1988-1996, and at St. John’s Lutheran School in Burlington, WI, from 1996-2019. He has also held the position of Athletic Director and has much coaching experience.

He and his wife Angie have three children: Payton, Kaleb, and Lindsey. He enjoys cheering on the Brewers, Badgers, Bucks, and Packers. He also enjoys spending time with family and friends, taking care of his yard, fires in his fire pit, and being outside in general.

His favorite Bible passage is Jeremiah 29:11 - “For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

 


Miss Deanna Rahn, 4th GradeRahn Deanna 0446

Miss Rahn was born in Watertown, WI and has also lived in northern Wisconsin, North Dakota, Minnesota, and California. She graduated from Martin Luther College in 2006 and has served at St. Stephen in Fallbrook and Ascension in Escondido, both in California, before coming to Wisconsin Lutheran School to teach 6th grade and Language Arts, Art, and Music. Her hobbies include reading, listening to all kinds of music, and spending time with family and friends.

It is her goal to not only provide the students in her classroom the education and skills they need, but also the place for them to grow spiritually, connecting them with their Savior.

One of her favorite Bible passages in Hebrews 11:1, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." It's a great reminder to trust in God no matter the situation.

 


Miss Rachel Buschkopf, 3rd GradeBuschkopf Rachel 0435

Miss Rachel Buschkopf was born and raised in the Midwest.  She grew up in Minneapolis, MN and later moved with her family to Milwaukee, WI where she would attend Wisconsin Lutheran High School.  After graduating, she returned to Minnesota where she studied at Martin Luther College. In 2002, she graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education.

She has taught in a variety of schools and settings both in the United States and internationally.  Mexico, China, Florida, Wisconsin, and Texas are a few of the places she has taught before returning to Wisconsin to teach 3rd grade right here at Wisconsin Lutheran School.

Miss Buschkopf enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, exploring, reading, playing piano, singing, and learning new things!  Her classroom is a place where students are encouraged to be curious, take risks, challenge themselves, be encouragers, contribute, share, appreciate, and grow in the knowledge and love of our Savior, Jesus.

Some of her favorite parts of Scripture include Psalm 139, Ephesians, and Jude 24-25 – “To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy—to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.”

 


Mrs. Mary Rathje, 2nd GradeMakinen Sara 0441

M rs. Rathje grew up in Toronto, Ontario.  She attended Michigan Lutheran Seminary for High School.  In 2002, she graduated with a Bachelor's Degree from Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN.  Mary is married to Jared Rathje and they have been blessed with four children.

"I am so excited to be able to share the good news of Jesus with my students each day.  It is such a great privilege to teach these precious little ones about their Savior."

Her favorite Bible passage is Hebrews 6:19 "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure."

 


Mrs. Debbie Peterson, 1st GradeMrs Peterson

M rs. Peterson was born and raised in lovely Minnesota. She attended St. Paul’s Lutheran School, Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School, and Dr. Martin Luther College, all in her hometown. She graduated from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Science in Education degree in 1997.

Her teaching career spans grades 3K, 4K, Kindergarten, and first grade at schools in Milwaukee, WI, Racine, WI, and Pooler, GA. Mrs. Peterson also has experience in remedial instruction, teaching Art for K-7th grade and Music for K-2nd grade, and Librarianship in both a school and public library setting. She can be found teaching in the first grade room and managing the ECC library.

Mrs. Peterson loves children’s literature, art, music, trees, clouds, coffee, taking photos, hiking, and going on adventures with her family. Her favorite Bible passage is Romans 14:8 “If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”

 


Mrs. Kim Lash, K5Lash Kim 0439

Mrs. Lash was born and raised in Racine. She attended St. Rita’s Grade School and St. Catherine’s High School. She graduated from UW-Whitewater with a Bachelors of Science in Education with a math minor. She then received her Early Childhood Lutheran Synod Certification from Martin Luther college.

She taught 5th grade at St. Edward’s School for seven years. She took eight years off to raise her three children. She was then called to teach Kindergarten at WLS and has loved teaching Jesus’ little lambs the last eleven years.

Mrs. Lash has coached the WLS 5th – 8th grade math teams, and assisted with the forensics and drama programs. She also enjoys spending time with her family, camping, reading and scrapbooking.


Her favorite Bible verse to share with her Kindergartners is John 3:16, “ For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.


Mrs. Alanna Walker, K4Walker Alanna 0453

Mrs. Alanna Walker was born in Waukegan, Illinois. She attended grades K-8 at Faith Evangelical Lutheran School in Antioch, Illinois. She graduated from Shoreland Lutheran High School, and then attended Illinois State University. She graduated from ISU with a Bachelor of Science in Education and a minor in Spanish.

She has taught several grades over the years in both public and private schools. She has taught preschool, kindergarten, 1st, 5th, and 6th grade. She has also taught Spanish to grades 1-8 for many years.

When Mrs. Walker is not teaching she enjoys spending time with her husband Rob and their three children. She also loves working out, cooking, baking, and gardening.

One of her favorite Bible passages is Jeremiah 29:11- “For I know the plans I have for you” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future..”


Mrs. Abbie Laitinen, MusicWalker Alanna 0453

Mrs. Laitinen was born and raised in south central Wisconsin. After attending grade school and high school in the greater Madison area, she attended Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN, graduating with a BS in Education. 

Abbie and her husband Jeremy have served schools and churches in Kenosha, Sun Prairie, Benton Harbor, MI, and Salina, KS, before moving to Racine. She has spent her time in Racine both long and short term substitute teaching at Shoreland Lutheran High School and at WLS. 

Abbie and Jeremy have three sons, all who have either graduated from or are currently attending WLS. 

This year, Abbie is teaching part time at WLS and is looking forward to seeing the students and faculty on a regular basis. It’s where the fun happens. 

The first chapter of the book of John is a beautiful testament to who Jesus Christ is and what he has done for mankind. He is our light and life (v.4). He is God coming to live among us (v.14). He gives of himself to bless us (v.16). And, he is our salvation (v.29).

John 1:16, “For out of his fullness we have all received grace upon grace.”


Mrs. Katie Hutchinson, Teaching Assistant, K4Walker Alanna 0453


Mrs. Katy Roekle, Teaching Assistant, K5Roekle Katherine 0449

Mrs. Roekle was born and raised in Kewaskum,WI. She attended St. Lucas Lutheran School for grades 4-8, graduated from Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School, Jackson, WI, and received her Bachelor of Science in Education from Martin Luther College, New Ulm, MN.

She taught 1st and 2nd grades for one year at the Lutheran School in Peridot, AZ on the Apache Reservation. She has assisted in all of the Wisconsin Lutheran Lower School classrooms over the past 4 years. For the 2012-2013 school year, she will be assisting Mrs. Lash and the K5 class as they take on a full day of fun and learning!

Mrs. Roekle enjoys spending time with her family, watching her sons play sports, walking, biking, gardening, and reading.

Proverbs 22:6 " Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it."


Mrs. Kristen Smith, Teaching Assistant, 1st and 2ndSmith Kristen 0452

 


Mrs. Doreen Lueck, Teaching Assistant, 3rd thru 5thLueck Doreen 0440

Mrs Lueck was born in Cudahy, WI. She attended grade school at Saint Matthews in Oak Creek. She graduated from Horlick high school in 1986.

Mrs. Lueck previously worked for Warren Industries as well as Hi-Image Services before becoming a full-time mom in 1997.
Before joining WLS as Teacher's Assistant Mrs Lueck was active for many years in volunteer activities for WLS, including Home & School, Room Parent, and filling in wherever needed.

Mrs Lueck treasures time with her husband Mike and daughters Samantha and Savannah. She loves serving her family as well as serving here at WLS.

Her favorite hobby is photography (many photos in our yearbook are courtesy of Mrs Lueck) and she is an avid Packer fan who can be found cheering them on anytime they play.

Her favorite Bible verse is John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

A close second is Proverbs 22:6 "Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it."


Pastor John RoekleRoekle John 0448

Pastor Roekle has been a part of Wisconsin Lutheran School since coming to First Evangelical Lutheran Church in 1996 to serve as pastor. He teaches 7th and 8th grade catechism class,leads chapel services, and has been involved in coaching soccer, basketball and softball. Following his graduation from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 1991, he served St. John's Lutheran Church in Florence, Wisconsin for5 years.


Pastor Michael ZarlingZarling Michael 0455

Pastor Zarling has been a part of the Wisconsin Lutheran School family since accepting the call to serve Epiphany Lutheran Church in 2004 as their pastor. He teaches 7th and 8th grade catechism class, leads chapel services, and is also involved in teaching evangelism to the children in the school. Currently he is coaching the boys and girls soccer teams at WLS. He graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 1996. He served as pastor in a home mission congregation in Radcliff, Kentucky for 8 years before being called to Epiphany. In 2021, the congregations of Epiphany and New Hope merged to form Water of Life.

 


Pastor Drew DeyRoekle John 0448

Pastor Drew Dey has been part of the WLS family for over a year since he was first assigned to serve as the second pastor at First Evan in Racine in May of 2021. He is involved in leading chapel on campus as well as teaching Catechism and Apologetics to the 7th and 8th graders along with the other pastors on staff. He graduated from Martin Luther College in 2017 and from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2021. 


Pastor Pastor Nathan KlusmeyerRoekle John 0448