Beloved in the Lord!

As the pastor at Faith Lutheran Church, it is with tremendous joy that I serve the children of Concordia Lutheran School along with a most amazing faculty and staff!

I, myself, am a product of Lutheran schools. My Kindergarten through Eighth Grade education was at St. John’s Lutheran School in Lombard, IL. This is the school of the church in which I was baptized and formed in the faith. It was during my years at St. John’s that the Lord instilled in me the desire to serve Him as a pastor in His Church. After St. John’s, I attended Valley Lutheran High School in St. Charles, IL. I then attended and graduated Concordia University Wisconsin having majored in theological languages. My seminary formation was at our Synod’s Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN. While at seminary, I served a summer vicarage at St. Paul Lutheran Church in International Falls, MN. My full year of vicarage was spent at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cleveland, OH—a bilingual German-English parish.

Upon graduation from seminary, I was ordained and installed in my first parish, Immanuel Lutheran Church in Copperas Cove, TX. I served the Lord’s people there for five years before receiving and accepting a call to Faith Lutheran Church in Corning, NY where I served for over 20 years before receiving and accepting the call to serve at Faith Lutheran, Sturtevant.

I have also worked on several projects over the years. The first was the translation of a daily devotion from the sermons of C.F.W. Walther, founding father of our Missouri Synod. When my parish in Texas was remodeling and expanding the parish hall, a box of junk was uncovered. In it was Das Walte Gott!, the original book from 1894. Thinking this book was too important and valuable to be left inaccessible to the English reader, I began translation of it. It was published in the summer of 2006 by Concordia Publishing House under the title, God Grant It.   Although now out of print, this book can still be found on Amazon and as one of Concordia’s “Print on Demand” books.

I also worked as part of the translation team to bring into English, Exodus of the Eight Hundred,  by Ingerose Paust. This was published by Concordia University Press, Austin, TX in 2015 and recognized by the Concordia Historical Institute. This popular German historical novel, details with gripping drama and exciting adventure, the emigration of the Lutheran Saxons in 1838 and their arrival and settlement in St. Louis and Perry County in 1839. This is the only current work of historical fiction that places the narrative into the hands of the general reader.

Through all these years the Lord has been working on me and leading me into greater faith and knowledge of Him and His holy word. It is my prayer that I will be an instrument of the Holy Spirit to lead the people of Faith, Sturtevant and the children of Concordia Lutheran School to grow in their faith and love of our gracious Triune God and Savior.

Concordia Lutheran School exists for the purpose of "Bringing Christ and academic excellence to our students for life and forever." The school celebrated its 50th anniversary in January of 2020. We give thanks that He has blessed our mission and ministry each of these years. I am privileged to have been part of the ministry at Concordia since 1986, coming as a graduate of Concordia, Mequon to teach second grade initially.

My interest in pursuing a career in the teaching ministry was encouraged and developed by outstanding educators I encountered in my experience in a Lutheran elementary school. Later, a desire to pursue administrative coursework was furthered by family, friends, colleagues, and the work of the Holy Spirit. In 2002, I completed the School Leadership Development Project, receiving certification for principalship in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. In 2004, I accepted the position of principal and at that time also served as part-time third grade teacher.

It is an incredible blessing to work with a very talented, caring group of servants who are committed to bringing students into a closer relationship with their Lord and each other. At Concordia, the students, teachers, and parents work together as a team, both in and out of the classroom. The sense of family and dedicated service that I have been a part of, and which anchors me at Concordia, is one that encourages a love for learning and life-long service. It is my prayer that just as my life was touched by educators committed to preparing God's people, that the staff and I together inspire our students to service in His kingdom.

Teaching Information: Concordia Lutheran School extended a Call to me to serve as the second grade teacher in 1986, as a graduate of Concordia University Wisconsin. The Lord led me from one Concordia to another and this has been my home ever since. Many of my 28 years teaching were spent in second grade or third grade, but I have also enjoyed teaching fourth grade, and third and fourth grades combined. At the conclusion of the 2013-14 school year, I moved from the classroom to full time administration.

I have three children, Brenden (Concordia Lutheran School graduate - Class of 2003), Kellen (Concordia Lutheran School graduate - Class of 2007) and Shaylyn (Concordia Lutheran School graduate - Class of 2009). Seeing their faith and friendships grow at Concordia was truly one of life's greatest pleasures. Their time at Concordia most definitely helped shape their future and develop the character and work ethic that they possess as adults. (Yes, I am a proud mom – but recognize that their teachers were significant in contributing to the successes they enjoy today.)

My husband Norman and I enjoy country music, as well as supporting our Milwaukee Brewers, Wisconsin Badgers and Green Packers.

My history with Concordia has been a long one. It started when I was just three years old and my dad took a call to be pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church. I attended Concordia starting in kindergarten (they didn’t have a preschool program back then) and was fortunate enough to have Jeannine Klein as my third and fourth grade teacher. I graduated from Racine Lutheran High School and went on to attend the University of Wisconsin – Platteville, majoring in Elementary Education with a minor in Early Childhood.

During my time at Platteville, God blessed me with many opportunities to work in the classrooms at Highland Elementary School before I ended up student teaching at Concordia in the fourth grade class under the direction of Mrs. Kosmala. Immediately after graduating in 2006, I took at long term substitute position at Concordia in the 7th grade classroom teaching literature and technology to the upper grades. The following fall, I long term subbed in the fifth grade classroom teaching math to the middle schoolers.

Shortly following my time at Concordia, I took a position at Shepherds College as an academic advisor and instructor where I worked alongside young adults with disabilities. As an academic advisor, I had 8-10 students on my caseload. Because students come from all over the world, they reside at the school, which means that as an advisor, I was responsible for everything from finance to hygiene to behaviors. While at Shepherds, I taught a myriad of classes including math, language arts, study skills, communications, life finance, and trained for life. I believe that each student is created by God on and for a purpose with specific gifts and abilities. This means that each student is either a visual, auditory, written, or kinesthetic learner. I try to have each of those learning styles in the lessons I teach in order to maximize the amount of information a student retains.

I brought all the knowledge and passion I have for teaching back to Concordia as I joined the staff as the second-grade teacher in 2014. I transitioned from teaching into an administrative role as Assistant Principal in 2017. As I work alongside the teachers, I am excited to bring the Gospel and the love of God to each student. We want to see the students grow into the gifts and abilities that God has given them and strive to reach their maximum potential.

Now for a little about me personally. I enjoy playing the piano, leading worship/directing choir, reading books by Torey Hayden, and cheering for the Packers with my family.

Hello, I am Jacqueline Voss. My wonderful husband Steve and I have been married for twenty-six years and counting. We have three wonderful children, David, Ian, and Genevieve. All three of our children are graduates of CLS. We love to spend our time as a family going on vacations, boating, fishing, and camping.

As a graduate of Concordia and Racine Lutheran High School I understand the importance and value of a Christian education. I love that I can share my faith with our students, parents, and staff. I received my Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin Parkside.

I was a substitute teacher with Racine Unified for fifteen years and blessed to work at Concordia for the past thirteen years. In that time, I have served as a substitute teacher, third-grade teacher, K4 Aide and am currently serving as the Administrative Assistant.

"I can do all things through him who strengthens me."  Philippians 4:13

I have been blessed since August 2017 to work at Concordia. I worked as the 3rd grade aide for 5 years and last year I moved into the Office Assistant position. I am enjoying this new opportunity! I was born and raised in Racine and have been married to my husband Daniel for 16 years. We have 3 beautiful children, Madelyn, Dylan, and Weston. The boys attend CLS in grade 5 th and 7 th for the 2023/24 school year. Our daughter graduated from CLS and is now a sophomore at Lutheran High School.

While I enjoyed my time working in the finance world, my heart was pulled to be with my own children. I truly believe everything happens for a reason. In December 2014, I left my manager job at Educators Credit Union to become a stay-at-home mom. I worked there just short of 15 years, starting as a teller in 1999. After high school, I attended Gateway Technical College pursuing a Supervisory Management degree.

In my free time I love to camp with my family, spend time at our property up north, read and enjoy walking every day. We enjoy attending and watching all Wisconsin sports, especially our Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers. My greatest joy is spending my time on the bleachers cheering on my kids during baseball, softball, football, soccer and basketball season.

Our family has been blessed with the teachers and staff here. I am so glad to be a part of guiding the lambs of our glorious God.

Hi, my name is Danielle Kosterman. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin- Parkside. I majored in Sociology and minored in Criminal Justice. After graduation I was employed by Children’s Service Society of WI in Milwaukee as a social worker. I worked as an Adoption and Foster Care Specialist for four years. I wore many hats and found this work very rewarding. I am blessed to have assisted in so many children finding permanency.

I met my husband in 2004 and we were married in 2009. We have two children who attend Concordia Lutheran School. When my oldest was one, my husband and I decided I would be a stay at home mom. I was blessed to be home with both of our children for seven years. We decided that it was time for me to return to the workforce in 2018. I worked with Mrs. Eberhardt as a Kindergarten Aide for two years and later switched roles and now I am the Office Assistant. I been blessed to help children achieve permanency, stay home with my children and to be a part of the Concordia family.
I have enjoyed my children attending Concordia Lutheran School. My children have grown intellectually, as well as spiritually, being a part of this school. I enjoy working with the staff and families here at Concordia as well.

On a personal note, I love reading, cheering on our children on in soccer, baseball and basketball, and live music.

My name is Natalie Graichen. My husband and I just celebrated our 17th anniversary, and we have three awesome kids. I’m very active with my church’s photography team and choir. I love music, reading/writing, being outdoors, and (often unsuccessfully) exploring my artistic side.

Since graduating from Concordia Chicago with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Art, God has blessed me with several Calls that have provided many different opportunities to serve Him while growing as an educator and continually growing in Faith. My teaching career began in 2004 at Trinity Lutheran School in Mequon where I taught 3rd Grade for two years. After that, I accepted a Call to a school that holds a very dear place in my heart: Concordia Lutheran School! I taught both 3rd Grade and Kindergarten here at Concordia for four years from 2006-2010. God then Called me to become the director and preschool teacher at Prince of Peace Early Childhood Center for six years from 2010-2016. With a strong desire to again be in the classroom fulltime where I could spend more time with students, more time shaping minds and teaching about Jesus, God directed me back to Concordia Lutheran School!  I am blessed to continue in my passion here, which is early childhood education!  I really enjoy finding creative ways for children to learn as they play every day.  I believe in hands-on, engaging, (and fun!) learning experiences.  In 4K, learning is play and play is learning!

Christian education has been a part of my life since preschool and I am so thankful for it! I look forward to all the good things God has planned for all the children, families, and staff each and every school year.

My name is Bridget Maricque and I have worked various jobs at Concordia for the last seven years. This year I will be working as the K4 aide. I am looking forward to letting Jesus' love shine through me as I provide support to Ms. Baganz in the classroom.

I was born and raised in Green Bay, WI. In 2010, my husband, Jeremy, accepted a position in Racine and relocated our family to the area. My oldest daughter is going to be a sophomore at UW Madison and my youngest will be a sophomore at Union Grove High School.

In my spare time I enjoy traveling (especially to Disney World), visiting my daughter in Madison, reading and cooking.

Hi, my name is Melissa Eberhardt. I am a graduate of Concordia University Wisconsin in Mequon with a degree in Early Childhood Education and a minor in Theater. This is my 23 rd year teaching and my 21 st year at Concordia. I have taught Kindergarten, 1 st grade, and 2 nd grade as well as teaching a half day 3 rd grade and 5 th -6 th combination. I strive to create a supportive and fun learning environment where the children aren’t afraid to take risks and make mistakes. We work to persevere through our challenges during the school year and celebrate successes both large and small.

My husband Matt and I have been married for 21 years and have two children. Logan is 15 years old will be a sophomore in high school this year and Gabriel is 13 and is in 8th grade this year. Matt is a web developer for a company in Waukesha. In my “spare” time, I enjoy reading and spending time outside.

Hi, my name is Hope Bosak, and I look forward to helping your child learn and grow in my position as kindergarten aide, assisting Mrs. Eberhardt for the fourth year.

Seeing the joy in children’s eyes, as they succeed in mastering new skills and growing their intelligence, is a priceless gift. We get to witness this every day in our classroom, as their knowledge is built upon more and more each day. The difference in the
children’s skill set between the beginning and the end of the year is so exciting to be a part of and to observe. The love and care they receive here will assist them in being the best they can be!

Personally, I had many years of experience as a Concordia parent, from 2005-2021, as both my son and daughter graduated from this great school. I’ve also referred many families here, when my opinion was asked about what would be a great school.

As the owner/operator of a state licensed home-based Christian Child Care for 25 years, I would only recommend a school that I felt strongly about, since the bond with these families was very strong. They’ve all loved the valuable learning experiences and opportunities Concordia Lutheran School has provided.

Now I look forward to helping the next generation succeed by truly enjoying helping them meet their educational goals, expanding their social skills and growing in their Christian faith.

Hi! My name is Lori Ratkovec. I am a graduate of Concordia University Wisconsin where I earned a bachelor's degree in Lutheran Elementary Education and two minors in Spanish and Theology.

I am incredibly grateful to be part of the Concordia Lutheran School family! Here, God has blessed me with the opportunity to help His children grow in knowledge and faith! In the 1 st grade classroom, my goal is for children to grow in their understanding and enhance their skills in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. Most importantly, I hope that my students will learn more about the Word of God and all that it teaches us as children of God!

In 2020, I married my high school sweetheart and we moved to Mount Pleasant. We were blessed to expand our family by one in 2023 when God gave us our baby boy! In my spare time, I enjoy camping, walking my dog, watching movies, and spending time with my family!

Hi, my name is Laura Knoch, and this is my 4th year as the first-grade aide. I am very excited to assist Mrs. Lori Ratkovec and to get to know all the new 1st grade students!

I grew up attending Lutheran schools and I’ve been a resident of Racine all my life. I’ve been married 33 years and have two adult children and I’m also a dog mom! I enjoy going on walks with my dog, reading my daily devotions, swimming, doing crafts, and spending time with my family!

Before I started working here, I had the pleasure of working at a Christian child care center as the assistant and I am looking forward to this school year and helping the students grow in their faith!

Hello families of Concordia! My name is Abby Luerssen and I am so excited to be teaching second grade!

I am originally from Antigo, Wisconsin. I graduated from Concordia University Wisconsin with a degree in Lutheran Elementary Education and a minor in English as a Second Language. I began teaching in 2021 and spent two years teaching 2nd grade at St. Paul Lutheran School in Grafton, Wisconsin. I feel incredibly blessed that I have been called to continue my teaching career here at Concordia Lutheran School. My mission as a teacher is to provide my students with a quality education in a welcoming, fun, and engaging learning environment that has a focus on Christ.

During 2nd Grade we will continue learning about numbers and letters, study more about our world, become great readers, and learn about Jesus and His love for us!

I currently live in Gurnee, Illinois and will be getting married in December of 2023! In my free time I like to be outdoors, sing and play the piano, or spend time with my family!

I am a 1995 graduate of Concordia College in Seward, Nebraska. From there I spent my first 7 years of Lutheran teaching at Hope Lutheran in Glendora, California and Faith Lutheran Jr/Sr High in Las Vegas, Nevada. After that, I moved closer to family and started teaching in the public schools. I taught for 9 years in Nebraska and Colorado. I met my husband when I was living in Colorado, and we moved from there to South Carolina where I taught for another 6 years in public schools and a private pre-school. I am now starting my 7th year here at Concordia, and it has been a wonderful teaching experience so far with great kids and an excellent faculty and staff.

Most of my free time is spent with my family. My husband and I have two children ages 8 and 1 who keep us busy. I enjoy teaching 3rd grade and am looking forward to another year of the gift of teaching God’s children!

Barb is the 3rd Grade Aide for Concordia Lutheran School.  She lives in Racine, with her husband, daughter, 2 dogs & 2 birds. She has 3 children, 2 of which are married. Barb also has 2 grandchildren, whom she loves to spend most of her free time with.

I was born and raised in Wisconsin and am a product of the Lutheran education system from preschool through college.  I attended Hales Corners Lutheran School for my elementary education and then went to Martin Luther High School in Greendale, WI. I graduated from Concordia University of Wisconsin with a bachelor's degree in elementary education and a minor in English.

After graduation from CUW, my first teaching position was at Bethlehem Lutheran School in Milwaukee where I taught a multi-grade classroom of fifth-sixth graders. I taught at Bethlehem for five years before accepting a position at Pilgrim Lutheran School in Wauwatosa to teach sixth grade. It was during this time that my husband and I were married. We moved to Fort Wayne, IN, where my husband studied at Concordia Theological Seminary. While living in Fort Wayne, I taught at Zion Lutheran Academy as their fifth-sixth grade teacher. Lastly, we returned to the Badger State in 2002, and I took on the position of fifth-eighth grade teacher and headmaster at Peace Lutheran Academy in Sussex, WI.

My husband and I reside in New Berlin and enjoy reading and relaxing on our patio.

Hi, I’m Michele Friesema! I was born and raised in Racine, WI and attended public school in both Raymond and Racine. Over the years, I’ve been involved in several ministries, which include AWANA, Vacation Bible School, Sunday School, various
service/mission trips, and Campus Crusade (in college).

I’ve had various work experiences before landing here at Concordia. In addition to being a “professional sawdust sweeper” for my dad’s former construction company, my summers between my Senior Year of high school and Junior Year of college consisted of working as a Camp Counselor at a day camp for children and adults with disabilities. As a counselor I aided in daily care, as well as facilitated/planned various recreation activities and field trips for the campers.

I attended the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Therapeutic Recreation (TR). During my final semester, I completed my TR Internship at Gio’s Garden in Middleton, WI. Gio’s Garden is a respite-therapy facility for children with developmental and intellectual disabilities. I worked as both a respite caretaker and a Recreation Therapy Intern, where the goal was to enhance abilities through play/planned therapy activities and programs. I graduated in Spring 2021 and passed the TR Certification Exam in early Fall 2021.

After college graduation, I ventured into 1-on-1 therapy working with a boy with Down Syndrome through his family’s homeschool program. Since this was not a full-time position, I was able to volunteer here at Concordia a couple of days a week in the gym. It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had, and when asked if I’d like to return as a classroom aide, the answer was an immediate YES! Although I’m not working in a TR Department, I know this is where God wants me to be right now and He doesn’t make mistakes! I’m so thankful for this opportunity and I look forward to working with your kids!

Outside of work, I enjoy camping, hiking, swimming, volleyball, photography, and hanging out with my family and friends. I’m also a huge Brewers, Badgers, and Packers fan!

Colossians 3:23 - “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men”.

Hello! My name is Julie Arndt. I graduated from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education. This will be my 19th year of teaching, most of them here at Concordia. I have also taught preschool, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grade. I’m also a pianist and organist.

I treasure the time I get to spend with my grandchildren. My hope, as I instruct children, is that they will grow in academic knowledge, and more importantly become more confident and comforted in the peace that Jesus saved them, loves them, and has a well-designed plan for their lives.

Hi, my name is Susan Williams.  I graduated from Westmar College in LeMars, Iowa with a Bachelor’s Degree in elementary education, a minor in early childhood and home economics.  I previously taught Title 1 for three years and third grade in Iowa before moving to Wisconsin.  I have taught fourth grade for 28 years and third grade for 3 years in Racine Unified School District. I retired from RUSD this year.  I am looking forward to working with the staff and children.

My husband of 25 years, James, and I have three daughters and six grandchildren.  The grandchildren keep us very busy going to soccer, baseball, and basketball games. I enjoy watching them play.  I have learned how to crochet and have been enjoying that hobby.  Now I want to learn how to quilt.

Hello! My name is Emily, and I am the new 6th Grade Teacher at CLS. I was born and raised in Plymouth, WI and have gone to Lutheran schools my entire life. I graduated from Concordia Wisconsin with my bachelor’s in Secondary Education and English, along with my Lutheran Teacher diploma.

I am very excited to be part of the CLS family, especially since it is my first teaching job. I hope to make many connections to the families both at the Church and at the School.

In my free time I enjoy reading, writing, dancing, and playing with my nephew (who is also my godson). I have one pet bunny named CeCe who is the loudest rabbit you will ever meet. Fun fact about me is that I can speak German. I am learning to become fluent from my father who was raised in Germany.

My name is Crystal Barron, born and raised in Racine, WI. I have been married to my husband, Omar for 18 years. I have been blessed with three sons, Cesar (27), Vicente (21), and Lenox (13 and a 7th grade Concordia student). I have a 5-year-old grandson, Emmett Mateo.

We came to Concordia when Lenox started Kindergarten. I started working in Afterschool Care when Lenox began 1st grade and then have been further blessed with the opportunity to work in middle school as an aide.

I love family time and enjoy reading, coloring, horses and horseback riding, butterflies, especially ‘raising’ them, the color purple, sunsets and traveling, collecting crosses, church and coffee ;) We are small local business owners and long-time members of Living Hope Lutheran Church/Pentecost Lutheran Church.

I am thankful God has placed me where I can work the best through Him!

Mr. Christopher Drager has been married to Dena since 1996. They have two grown children who live in the Midwest. Christopher and Dena are currently living in Racine.

Mr. Drager grew up in East Grand Forks, Minnesota, graduated from Concordia University-Saint Paul with a Bachelor's Degree in Education, a major in Family Systems and is a certified Director of Christian Education. While serving a congregation in Missouri, he attended Lindenwood University in Saint Charles and worked towards his Master’s in Family Systems and Adolescent Therapy.

Christopher is active and enjoys hanging out with his family and friends, working in his yard, lap swimming, biking, camping, and fishing.

Hello! My name is Brenda Bakke. I feel very blessed to be a part of the Concordia family as the new 7 th grade aide. The last 8 years I have spent working at a Lutheran preschool and prior to that I worked for my family’s business.

I married my high school sweetheart and we have been happily married for 27 years. God blessed us with 2 beautiful daughters who are now grown, making us empty nesters with just our dog, Ace, keeping us company. I am a new grandma to bouncing baby boy and I am enjoying every chance I get to spoil him.

In my free time, I enjoy glamping, playing cribbage, watching movies, and spending time with my family and friends.

I have been blessed to be an aide at Concordia since 2019. I love being able to use my God-given talents to serve our kids! I live in South Milwaukee with my adoptive daughter, Tammy, and my dog, Angel, although Tammy spends more time at college nowadays. I enjoy cooking, walking my dog, reading, and watching TV.

Hello! My name is Kate Martinez. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Whitewater with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Spanish in December 2019. This will be my fourth year here at Concordia Lutheran School. I am very blessed and excited to continue to openly share my faith with the students as they grow and learn in the Word of God, as well as develop a greater understanding of the world around them. The Lutheran Church and Christian education have been a large part of my life since the minute I was born as my father is a pastor and my mother is a Lutheran School Educator as well.

I am married to my husband, Martin. In our free time, we love to go exploring and enjoy the beautiful world God has created by hiking and kayaking. If I'm not outdoors, you will either find me curled up with a good book or whipping up treats in the kitchen.

My name is Beverlee Bohm. I moved to Racine, WI in 1997 from Ceiba, Puerto Rico. I have four fantastic sons Brylan (25), Kevin (22), Tyler (18), and Travis (10 and a 5th grader at Concordia).

I enjoy spending time with my children and my two dogs, photography, poetry, art, and walking in nature. I came to Concordia in 2021 when my son Travis started 3rd grade. I knew right away Concordia was a very special place. Since joining the team here at Concordia, I have become the A Squad Volleyball Coach and the Cheerleading Coach and I absolutely love it.

I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to share the word of God and joy with our students every day!

Growing up, my dad was a pastor at Holy Cross and so I attended Concordia until I was in fourth grade. Knowing Christ and understanding Scripture have been a valuable and intricate part of who I am since I was very young. Concordia's purpose in "Bringing Christ and academic excellence to our students for life and forever" is a vision that resonates with me. The Gospel message is one that is not focused simply on life after death; it is a message of hope and life for the present. It is a message that offers grace to every person in any circumstance.

Just prior to starting my current job here at Concordia, I spent six months in Senegal, West Africa with a missionary couple as they began their first overseas mission assignment. I was the live-in nanny for their two children while they took French lessons and began to acclimate to life in a new culture. This experience gave me a deeper understanding of myself and my priorities in life. It clarified my perspective and the values that I wish to maintain and instill in those around me. Values such as striving for a heart of compassion that reflects the heart of Christ; nurturing a sense of curiosity and creativity; learning to respond with courtesy and respect, especially when human nature defies such a response; and developing the ability to communicate thoughts and emotions with clarity.

My desire is that in everything I do  I would "Preach Christ always and, if necessary, use words" (Francis of Assisi).

Hello, my name is Becky Demuth and I am the Physical Education Teacher here at Concordia. This is my 11th year at Concordia teaching the Concordia students in the gym--I love being a part of the Christian atmosphere and sharing my faith with my students while learning various lifetime skills while engaging in lots of activities/games in the gym!!

I graduated from Racine Lutheran High school in 1983, and then I attended UW-Oshkosh and finished my teaching degree at Purdue University. I have been teaching for over 25+ years and coaching for over 30+ years!

Besides teaching at Concordia, I am also the Varsity Volleyball & Varsity Softball Coach at Racine Lutheran High School.  I can be found in a gym somewhere!! I have been married for 37 years to my husband, Rob, who is semi-retired and working for Wilks Bros., the farm I grew up on in Union Grove. We have raised 3 great kids who are all happily married.  Amber (Andy) - live in Michigan & 2 sons--Carter (3 1/2) & Owen (1 1/2). Tim (Tierney) and 1 son --Graham (14 weeks) & Ty (Amy) live in Mt. Pleasant.  All of us attended and graduated from Racine Lutheran High School. My husband and I live “in the country” in the town of Raymond on the other side of the “I”. I end up putting lots of miles on my car. I do enjoy watching sports, spending time with my family & friends, and photography! My husband and I enjoy UTVing and snowmobiling.

I love being a wife, a mom, but especially a GRAMMY. My favorite activity is spending time with my 3 grandsons--Carter, Owen, & Graham.  I enjoy spoiling them as much as possible. God has blessed me in so many ways with family, coaching, & teaching!

I have resided in Union Grove since moving from Illinois with my family in 1997, when my step-father took over ownership of a well drilling company. I graduated from Union Grove Union High School and began studying Early Childhood Education at Gateway Technical College. In 2005, I started my family of three children. While they were young, prior to entering school, I started a state licensed in-home childcare center. The opportunity to stay at home with my children while promoting socialization and development of other children was priceless.

In 2008, I unexpectedly lost my mother in an auto related accident that also threatened the life of my then 3-year old daughter. Faith is often shaken during times of tragedy. I believe this life changing experience placed me on my path. After 14 days of unknown outcomes my daughter woke-up, 14 days later she walked out of Children’s hospital medication and restriction free. Speech Language, Occupational, and Physical therapy’s assisted in her full recovery. God’s presence, strength, light, and love has surrounded her, me and my family.

In 2009, I began initiating community youth programs as the Village of Union Grove Park and Recreation Assistant. In 2013, I graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Early Childhood from Grand Canyon University. 2014, provided the opportunity to work on the development and implementation of an Early Childhood curriculum. I continued to gain experience through substitute teaching opportunities throughout western Racine County. I was led to discover the power in designing individualized active instruction in 2015, as a curriculum developer at Mrs. Myers’ Reading Room. Providing supplemental education support in Racine County including here at Concordia Lutheran, Sturtevant.

My passion for specialized instruction, prayer, and blessings provided an opportunity in 2016 to serve the students, families, and educators at Concordia Lutheran School as the Special Education Resource teacher. In 2018, I have obtained my Masters of Education in Special Education from Concordia University-Portland.

I spend as much time as possible with my family, we are close and active. I find joy in repurposing; that is turning something old and forgotten into something unique and purposeful. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. In the summers I enjoy live music, gardening, and camping as often as possible.

My name is Bryce Sinnett. I am a speech language pathologist providing services through Mrs. Myer's Playroom. I live in Caledonia with my husband, Logan, my two daughters, Parker and Kendall, and our goldendoodle, Harvey. We enjoy doing outdoor activities as a family, such as camping, swimming, and having bonfires!

I was born and raised in Arkansas, but I have lived in Wisconsin for almost 10 years now! I graduated with my bachelors and masters degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, and I maintain my Certificate of Clinical Competence through the national American Speech Language and Hearing Association.

I began my career as a Speech Language Pathologist in 2018. Over the past 5 years, I have had experiences working with many children with a wide variety of disabilities and needs. I have experience servicing children in public schools, private schools, and a private practice setting. I have found over the years that working with children is a passion of mine. I enjoy teaching and supporting children to learn to communicate and advocate for themselves in order to thrive in school and in everyday life. I look forward to servicing students at Concordia Lutheran School this year!

I'm Sharon Joyce. I attended St. Rose Grade School and J.I. Case High School. I have four children and four grands. Sebastian, is in sixth grade here at Concordia.  I am retired from Racine Unified after twenty-four years as a teaching assistant in special education. I've  been here at Concordia since 2015. I truly enjoy my position here in the before and after school care program.

Hello,  I am Stefanie Eaton — this is my first year working in the Before School Care and Afternoon Care programs,  but my second year as part of the Concordia family. Over the course of the last academic year, I served as a Substitute Teacher/Aide.

Growing up locally, I attended Concordia from preschool to 8th grade, graduating in 2006.  My academic journey continued at Racine Lutheran High, where I graduated with the class of 2010. In 2014 I received my Bachelor of Arts in Communication from UW-Parkside.

In 2016 I married my husband, Daniel, and together we have two amazing daughters and two fur babies (cats).  Our oldest is beyond excited to be starting another school year at Concordia! Meanwhile our youngest is looking forward to starting “grandma preschool”.

Outside of work I enjoy doing all sorts of fun activities with my family, reading, and cooking/baking.

I am looking forward to a great school year and cannot wait to make connections with all of you!

Hello! My name is Sara Ivanoski. This is my first year at Concordia Lutheran’s Librarian. It’s also my first year volunteering as Assistant Cheerleading Coach. Before coming to Concordia, I spent many years working at Linda’s Hallmark store. I’ve also worked for Cree lighting and as a security guard at Amazon.

When not working on the library, I operate my own business, Bubbles of Color, which is a personal laundry service. In my free time I enjoy ANYTHING Harry Potter, Disney, and Hocus Pocus; so much that my interior of my house is decorated with mementos from those genres. I also enjoy traveling to see family. Above all else, I enjoy spending time with my girls and being a mom! My husband Jake and I have 2 girls. They started attending Concordia in 2022. They sure do like to keep us busy, that’s for sure!

FUN FACT: Jake attended Concordia back in the day.

Hi, my name is Christina Morrison. I was born in Spain and moved to the USA when I was 2 years old. I have always lived in Wisconsin since. I married my amazing husband in 2012 and have 4 children. I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, the outdoors, kayaking, and gardening