2012 Graduates Bid Farewell to WLHS - West Lutheran High School

April/May/June 2012 Volume 46
What’s Inside
From the Principal’s Desk
Page 2
Meet the Exchange Students
Page 4
Prom: Underwater Fantasy
Page 8
West Lutheran Serves
Page 9
Spring Sports Shine
Page 11
2012 Graduates Bid Farewell to WLHS
On Saturday, May 26, West Lutheran High School honored its
31st graduating class. The ceremony began as the fifty-four
graduates marched into the gymnasium with the purple and
silver colored class banner hung over the door. The service
opened with the graduating class singing their song selection,
“On Eagle Wings.” Reverend Phillip Mischke of Timothy Lutheran
Church, St. Louis Park served as the liturgist and Pastor
Jonathan Ladner of West Lutheran High School delivered the
sermon with the message of “Band of Brothers.” The Concert
Choir also performed the song “Write Upon My Heart.”
After the worship service, class speaker Kyler Sawtelle addressed
the graduates during the commencement portion of the
ceremony. After Principal Meitner addressed the class of 2012,
the graduates received their diplomas from Board of Regents
member David Wiechmann. The ceremony concluded with the
traditional tossing of the caps and the graduates leaving the
gymnasium holding a Gerbera daisy, their class flower.
The full list of graduates and additional information for the class of 2012 can be found on pages 6-7.
Calendar
June 18-21 Boys Basketball Camp
June 25-28 Girls Basketball Camp
August 6 West Golf Tournament
August 14-16 Football, Soccer, and
Volleyball Camps
August 15 Freshman Picnic
August 24 First Day of School
Freshman
August 26 Opening Day Service
August 27 First Day of School
Grades 10-12
The News from West newsletter is
dedicated in providing the good news
about West Lutheran High School. If
you have questions or concerns about
the newsletter, please contact Karla
Smith, West Lutheran Media Coordinator,
at westadmin@wlhs.net.
West Lutheran High School • 3350 Harbor LN N • Plymouth, MN 55447 • (763) 509-9378 • info@wlhs.net • www.wlhs.net

From the Principal’s Desk
By Merl Meitner
MNSAA Accreditation
For the past 12 years West Lutheran has been accredited through
the Minnesota Non-Public School Accrediting Association (MN-
SAA). This organization is a member of the National Federation
of Nonpublic School Accrediting Associations (NFNSSAA). The
process of accreditation involves each school doing a self study
determining its areas of strengths and challenges and developing
a seven-year strategic plan that will aid in the overall development
of the school’s growth and potential.
This is a fluid plan that is meant to be adapted
to the needs of the school as the school’s
challenges change annually. These areas
include, but are not limited to: staff development,
curriculum and instruction, administration,
communication and marketing, finance, enrollment, and
facilities. This is the third time that West has worked through the
MNSAA process, but it always changes a little.
Once accredited, the school’s administration is responsible for filing
an annual report that is reviewed by a committee of MNSAA,
and an annual renewal certificate is then issued. There are annual
MNSAA meetings and seminars to keep schools involved
and informed regarding educational policies and practices. After
the fifth year of the process, MNSAA begins working with each
school that is nearing the end of their seven
year plan to review the standards that will be
utilized to judge the school’s performance
in the various areas of school life. In May,
West Lutheran began the process of renewing its accreditation
with MNSAA. Mr. Meitner, Mr. Merten, and
Mr. Wiechmann will provide the necessary
leadership in suggesting the best processes
to utilize in the self-study process. They attended
a renewal workshop in May.
During the 2012-13 school-year West will be involved in a selfstudy
which will involve a number of committees researching
the school’s overall performance. Current and former parents,
alumni, board members, and staff may be asked to serve to help
make this process work effectively. If asked, please consider
serving. During the 2013-14 school year the process will culminate
in a visit from a MNSAA team that will analyze the work of
the school, recommend changes, and evaluate the status of the
school.
2012-2013 Opening Service - Commission of the Schroeders
As published in the previous newsletters, Howard and Rachel Schroeder will be serving
in a special ministry opportunity with the WELS Kingdom Workers (WKW) in Mexico
beginning this fall. West Lutheran in conjunction with the WKW wish to commission the
Schroeders as a part of the opening service. In order to accommodate those who would
wish to attend, we are going to hold the opening service on Sunday, August 26 at 4pm.
There will be a light meal and fellowship to follow the service. All students and their
families are invited to celebrate this special occasion and wish the Schroeders special
blessings in their work. Monday, August 27th will be a normal day of school.
Grade School Essay Contest Winners
The 2012 West Lutheran Essay Contest winners have been announced. This
year’s theme was “Ministry in Motion” based on Colossians 3:12 “Therefore as
God’s chosen people, holy, and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion,
kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” All of the winners are from King of
Grace Lutheran School. Read the first place essay from each grade at http://wlhs.
net/2012Essays. Congratulations to all of the winners!
6th grade:
7th grade:
1st Lisa Hoffer 1st Annika Stensland
2nd Briana Leonhardt 2nd Alaina Moeller
3rd Sara Westberg 3rd Lily Nelson
8th grade:
1st Laura Studanski
2nd Maggie Degner
3rd Stefany Johnson
West Lutheran Golf Tournament
Save the
Date!
August 6
The West Lutheran Golf Tournament will be held
on Monday, August 6 at Wild Marsh Golf Course in
Buffalo. The scramble (best ball) format will start
at noon. The proceeds will go toward the West Lutheran
athletic department. For additional information
and registration, see the tournament brochure
at http://wlhs.net/2012Golf.
West Lutheran High School • 3350 Harbor LN N • Plymouth, MN 55447 • (763) 509-9378 • info@wlhs.net • www.wlhs.net

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Memorials
Thank you to the following people who directed their memorials for their loved ones to
West Lutheran High School:
In Memory of . . . . . .
Rita Beise
Duane Beise
Doug & Deb Beise
James Bratten
Paul Byrne
Ted Bruska
Don & Karen Strehler
Ray & Sue Schmidt
Ron Chuba
Len & Florence Healy
Norm & Liz Werner
Milo & Wanda Warnke
Julie Chuba
Hattie Daluge
Ron Vollrath
Gaylerd & Diane Lieder
Darold & Bev Marschel
Darlene Bechtold
Patricia DeBauche
Mike & LuAnn Obraske
Anna Dierson
Wise Penny Thrift Shoppe
Amelia Dorma
Ray & Sue Schmidt
Darlene Bechtold
Mary Anne Freitag
Dan & Bonnie Seichter
Jeff & Sharon Jannick
Mike & LuAnn Obraske
Alumni News
Bev Hanson
Ron Vollrath
Elmer Janisch
Judith Weigand
Leona Koehler
Don & Karen Strehler
Herbert Lucht
Gaylerd & Diane Lieder
Bill Mallory
Paul & Carol Kieffer
Mark Mooney
Doug & Sheri McCallum
Bill & Audrey Reich
Darlene Bechtold
Gaylerd & Diane Lieder
David & Becky Klatt
Lauren & Kathleen Hafften
Darold & Bev Marsch
Doug & Lana Reich
Robert & Brenda Oberlander
Don & Karen Strehler
Betty Obraske
Dan & Bonnie Seichter
Nancy Olseth
Bob & Marianna McCrea
Earl Olson
Wilferd & Diann Strehler
Don & Karen Strehler
John Parker
Bonnie Johnson
Congratulations to Nicole Apelt (’99) on her
engagement to Steve Staupe. A June 29, 2012
wedding is being planned. Nicole is employed
by the FAA and works at the Minneapolis Air
Traffic Control facility in Farmington, MN.
David Rickers (‘02)
& his wife Greta have
both received their
MBAs from Augsburg.
They previously received
their undgraduate
degrees from Concordia
in Moorhead.
They both work for
Target at the corporate
office in Minneapolis.
Michelle Olson (‘08) graduated from UW-
Stout in Menomonie WI with a Bachelors of
Science degree/Concentration in Communication.
She will be transferred to Chicago, IL
to pursue a career with Hormel Foods in their
food sales division.
Jim Patnode
Don & Karen Strehler
Ardis Radintz
Gaylerd & Diane Lieder
Jerry Rux
William & Audrey Reich
Jim Seefeldt
Rev. Mark & Jean Neitzel
Arnie Simon
Paul Byrne
Jim Taylor
Darlene Bechtold
Darold & Beverly Marschel
Frank Ubel
Donald & Marianne Vergin
Audrey Welter
Don & Karen Strehler
Avery Wolff
Dan & Bonnie Seichter
Bernadette Yantes
Duane Beise
Doug & Deb Beise
Jaime & Barb Sherwood
Alan C. Yochim
Leonard Yochim
Jeremy Wosje (‘06) received a call to serve
his vicar year (third year of study at Wisconsin
Lutheran Seminary) at Peace Lutheran
Church in Kokomo, Indiana.
Chelsea Moberg (’08)
was married to Andrew
Agrimson on March
26, 2011 at Parker’s
Lake Baptist Church
in Plymouth. Andrew
is in the 133rd Airlift
Wing of the Minnesota
Air National Guard, and
a short time after they
were married was deployed
to Kuwait for 6 months. He returned
home on December 21st, just in time for
Christmas. They are currently living in Plymouth,
but plan to close on a home in St. Michael
in May.
Bethany Lutheran College student, Sara
Krueger (‘08) presented at the Mathematical
Association of America (MAA) and American
Mathematics Society (AMS) joint conference
in Boston, MA. Sara presented a formal talk
titled “A Reservoir Model of Chagas Disease.”
Association
Congregations
West Lutheran High School is
blessed to have 20 association
congregations that support the
mission of the high school. These
congregations are:
• Abiding Savior – Elk River
• Ascension – Plymouth
• Brooklyn – Brooklyn Park
• Christ – Eden Prairie
• Cross – Rockford
• Cross of Christ – Coon Rapids
• Faith – Excelsior
• Faith – Prior Lake
• Holy Trinity – New Hope
• Hope – Andover
• Immanuel – Buffalo
• King of Grace – Golden Valley
• Mt. Olive – Delano
• Mt. Olive – Shakopee
• Redeemer – Maple Grove
• Redeeming Grace – Rogers
• Salem – Loretto
• St. Paul’s – Montrose
• St. Peter’s – Monticello
• Timothy – St. Louis Park
West Lutheran High School • 3350 Harbor LN N • Plymouth, MN 55447 • (763) 509-9378 • info@wlhs.net • www.wlhs.net

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Meet the West Lutheran Exchange Students
These are the last in a series of interviews with the eight foreign exchange student at West Lutheran for the 2011-2012 school year.
Adam (Hak) Yu comes
to West Lutheran High
School from South Korea.
He is a quiet, pleasant
young man, who has
a great sense of style.
One of Adam’s favorite
pastimes is shopping at
the Mall of America and
he always looks very
fashionable. Adam’s
host family lives in Chanhassen. There are
also two other international students in his
home who attend other schools. Adam is a
sophomore at West Lutheran High School and
plans to return as a junior next fall. Adam’s
hope is to continue his high school education
in the US and complete his college studies in
the US.
Q and A with Adam
Q: How did you decide to come to the US
for school
A: My parents asked if I would like to attend
school in the US and I said “yes.” I knew it
would be a good opportunity to learn English
and to go on to college.
Q: What is different about West and the
school you previously attended
A: Last year I was in the US and attended Minnetonka
Christian Academy. It was a much
smaller school and half of the students were
international students.
Q: What is your favorite thing about the
US
A: The education system. In South Korea the
education system models the Japanese school
system. It is very intense. High school is usually
8am to 10pm every day. Many students
board at school because of the long hours. My
middle school at home was 8am to 4pm.
Q: What do you enjoy doing here
A: I like going to the Mall of America. I also like
the food – there is so much variety and foods
from all different countries are available here.
I enjoy trying new foods.
Q: What is your least favorite thing about
being in the US
A: Being so far from home. I only get to see
my family if I travel home in the summer. I talk
to them once a week – either on the phone or
via Skype.
Q: What do you miss the most from home
A: I miss the family meals – we always had
breakfast and dinner together as a family.
Q: What differences do you notice between
the US and you home country
A: I have more free time which I enjoy.
Nick (Zhou) Yuning
comes to West Lutheran
High School from Nanchang
City, China where
he attended Nanchang
No. 2 High School. Nick’s
father suggested that
Nick come to the US to
study and Nick saw it as
a great opportunity to experience
a new culture
and continue his studies. Nick is a very polite
young man with a great sense of humor who
loves to learn. He is hosted by the Terry family
who he describes as very hospitable and kind.
He has enjoyed his stay with them immensely
and is grateful for the wonderful experiences
they have provided to him. He especially enjoyed
his trip with them to Florida during spring
break where he got to visit Universal Studios
Theme Park. He also loved the white sand
and the ocean and the green, lush, grass and
vegetation.
Q and A with Nick
Q: What was your first impression of the
US and WLHS
A: It is very different – especially the testing is
very different than in China.
Q: What is your biggest adjustment
A: Being far from friends. I do miss them but
I have not been very homesick. I like the new
experience. Also relationships have been hard
to establish in the US.
Q: What are some of your favorite things
about the US
A: Grass. In my city in China there is pavement
everywhere. I also like the variety of food –
especially barbeque, all the activities that you
can do and shopping. I have been to the Mall
of America a few times and often go to Arbor
Lakes in Maple Grove.
Q: What is your least favorite thing about
the US
A: Lack of good public transportation. If you
do not drive, it is hard to get anywhere. The
distance to travel from place to place is further
and so is not easy to walk.
Q: What do you miss the most from home
A: Family and friends.
Q: What are you most looking forward to
during your stay in the US
A: Continuing my college studies at Missouri
State. I will major in marketing and hopefully
get a job and stay in the US.
Falice (Yu) Wang
came to West Lutheran
High School mid-year
(our 2nd semester) from
Nanchang City, China.
She is staying with
Kim & Linda Class and
daughter Rachel, who is
a senior at West. Falice
has already earned her
high school diploma in
China, but is hoping to add some high school
credits to her accomplishments and continue
in the US for her college career. Falice is a
very polite, poised young lady with a ready
smile and an eagerness to learn.
Q and A with Falice Wang
Q: Why did you decide to come to the US
for your education
A: I believe that the college education in the
US is better.
Q: What was your first impression of the
US
A: It is not crowded. There is more countryside
and rural areas – just more space.
Q: What is the biggest adjustment for you
in the US
A: The language and the culture. Personal
relationships are different. They are harder to
establish. People are more guarded in the US
than in China.
Q: What is your favorite thing about the
US
A: I have more freedom and more free time.
Q: What do you miss the most from home
A: Friends and family.
Q: What is the major difference between
your country and the US that you see
A: People have more activities that they are
involved in.
Q: What is the major difference between
your school at home and West
A: Of course, all of the activities and sports. My
school at home has PE twice a week and that
is the only sports in school. If you want to play
a sport you join a league or team outside of
school. Also the school day – at home school
is 7:30am – 5:30pm, a much longer day. We
also do not change classes. We are always
in the same classroom with the same classmates.
Our teachers rotate in and out of the
classroom.
Q: What are you most looking forward to
during your stay in the US
A: Continuing my education and finishing college
in the US.
West Lutheran High School • 3350 Harbor LN N • Plymouth, MN 55447 • (763) 509-9378 • info@wlhs.net • www.wlhs.net

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Czech Republic Students Visit West
On Tuesday, April
24, West Lutheran
was proud to welcome
nine students
and their chaperone
from Pilzen in
the Czech Republic.
This visit was part
of a two week trip
that has been coordinated
with King
of Grace Lutheran Church and School. The group, mostly
students from Martin Luther Elementary School in Pilzen,
spent the day at West Lutheran attending classes, touring
the school, and enjoying a BBQ meal while watching a Warrior
baseball game.
Hosted by King of Grace families, the Czech visitors have
been attending classes and activities at King of Grace along
with enjoying the Twin Cities and Minnesota. They have
made visits to the Apple store and are planning a visit to
downtown Minneapolis and the Mill City Museum. Some
of the guests attended the Cinderella musical at West,
shopped at the Mall of America and packed food at Feed
My Starving Children as part of a King of Grace service
project. Other plans include going up north to a cabin and
trips to the Albertville Outlet Mall and Stillwater.
The students had a great time and some mentioned that
they would like to attend West Lutheran High School in the
future.
International Students Visit South Dakota
Mar 31 through April 2 was a busy weekend for five international
students. Victor, Joe, Tural, Falice, and Mariama journeyed nine plus
hours to visit the closest National treasure to the midwest - Mt. Rushmore.
While on their three day fun-filled adventure, they also visited the
Corn Palace, Badlands, and Crazy Horse. They explored Jewel Cave, fed
carrots to the donkeys at Custer State Park, ate some buffalo burgers,
and enjoyed the famous doughnuts, coffee, and water from Wall Drug.
Mr. & Mrs. Baures, coordinators and chaperones of the trip, enjoyed
spending time with the international students. One of the most memorable
moments was watching the students play Uno in the back of the
van - each explaining to each other their country’s version of the rules.
We Applaud...
Jacob Behmer and Kyler Sawtelle have
been presented with the 2012 Principal’s
Leadership Award. This principal chosen
award honors student leader(s) on the
basis of their leadership skills, participation
in service organizations and clubs,
and academic record. These award winners
have shown cooperation with faculty
and peers, enthusiasm for the school,
and demonstrated leadership by example.
Kaitlin Koester and Cassie Pollard
have been awarded the Pipkorn Scholarship.
This $500 scholarship is made
available to sophomores and juniors currently
enrolled at West Lutheran High
School and will be applied toward next
fall’s tuition at WLHS. This scholarship
honors the Christian service of Dennis
Pipkorn and is awarded to students that
show this same sense of loving service in
their lives.
Lauren Tripp will represent West Lutheran
at Girls State at Bethel University
June 10-16. Ross Robinson will be the
West Lutheran representative at Boy
State which will be held June 10-16, 2012
at Southwest Minnesota State University
Marshall, MN. American Legion Boys
State and American Legion Auxiliary Girls
State are the premier programs for teaching
how government works while developing
leadership skills and an appreciation
for your rights as a citizen.
The 2012 Athletes of the Year Awards
have been presented to Riley Gehl and
Megan Steffel. Riley has started and lettered
in all four years of football, basketball,
baseball and one year in track. Riley
has been named captain seven times
in these sports along with being named
All-Conference eight times. Megan has
been a varsity player all four years in volleyball,
basketball and softball and started
on nine of the twelve teams. She has
been captain four times for those sports
and lettered twelve times including once
in track. Megan has been selected five
times All-Conference, once All-Section
in softball, twice for the Great Western
Lutheran Shoot-out Basketball tournament
All-Star team, and once as Volleyball
MVP. She is also the 6th West girl to
score 1,000 points in basketball.
Congratulations to all the students who
received awards at the Spring Awards
ceremony on Tuesday, May 15. The
awards included: High Honors, Student
Council, President’s Award For Academic
Excellence, National Honor Society,
American Math Competition, Perfect Attendance,
Yearbook, Mock Trial, Fine
Arts Letters and Sports Letters. See the
complete list of awards and honorees at
http://wlhs.net/2012SpringAwards.
West Lutheran High School • 3350 Harbor LN N • Plymouth, MN 55447 • (763) 509-9378 • info@wlhs.net • www.wlhs.net

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WEST LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATING SENIORS 2012
Student’s Name Parent’s Names Church Membership Future Plans
Justin Anderson Jack & Kathy Anderson All Saints ELCA Century College – Business/Finance
Katelyn Anderson Scott & Lisa Anderson Salem WELS North Hennepin CC – Nursing
Scott Anderson Mark & Deb Anderson King of Grace ELS Bethany – Exercise Science
Rachel Ask Donald & Shelly Ask St. Paul’s WELS Hennepin Technical College – Floriculture
Jacob Behmer Mark & Linda Behmer King of Grace ELS Bethany – Broad Field Social Studies
Ryan Behmer Mark & Linda Behmer King of Grace ELS Bethany – Sociology/Criminal Justice
Ryan Bensen Chris & Karon Bensen King of Grace ELS Michigan Tech – Biological Sciences
Martin Bilitz Mark & Sarah Bilitz Water of Life Bethany – Aerospace Engineering
Rachel Class Kim & Linda Class Cross of Christ WELS Luther College – Nursing
Joseph DeSplinter Mike & Janine DeSplinter St. John’s LCMS University of St. Thomas – Business
Mackenzie Fischer Shari Fischer & Tim Fischer Ascension WELS Aveda Institute – Esthiology/Cosmetology
Thomas Forsberg Steve & Roxane Forsberg Plymouth Covenant University of St. Thomas – Business
Tiffany Funk Cory & Sandie Funk Cross of Christ WELS U of M Twin Cities – Nursing
Katherine Garaghty Mike & Annette Garaghty Evergreen Church Quinnipiac University – Athletic/Sports Medicine
Riley Gehl Scott & Jill Gehl St. John’s LCMS Bethel – Business & Mathematics
Christopher Hepfner Allen & Amy Hepfner Holy Trinity WELS NDSU – Pharmacology
Rebecca Herzig Jon & Zoe Herzig Pilgrim WELS Concordia University, St. Paul - Psychology
Andrew Holtz Jon & Betsy Holtz Beautiful Savior LCMS North Hennepin CC – Accounting
Mary Janisch Rev. Bruce & Bethel Janisch Ascension WELS University of St. Thomas – Health Promotion
Ami Jensen Del & Brenda Jensen Holy Name of Jesus University of Northern Iowa – Undecided
Stephanie Johnson Greg & Dawn Johnson Pilgrim WELS Martin Luther College - Education
Daniel Kieffer Paul & Carol Kieffer Redeemer LCMS U of M Twin Cities – Biomedical Engineering
Laura Kolander Dan & Lisa Kolander St. John’s LCMS Concordia University, WI – Elementary Education
Christopher Leonhardt David & Alysia Leonhardt Elim ELCA Dakota State University – Video Game Design
Sydney Lien Spencer & Lynne Lien Mt. Olive WELS University of AZ, Tucson – Undecided
Angela MacDonald Larry & Janet MacDonald King of Grace ELS North Hennepin CC – Childcare
Anna Mischke Rev. Philip & Nancy Mischke Timothy WELS North Hennepin CC – Associate of Arts
Blake Molitor Lisa Molitor & Tim Molitor Ascension WELS Des Moines Area CC – Undecided
Shea Molitor Lisa Molitor & Tim Molitor Ascension WELS Des Moines Area CC – Undecided
Aracely Montecinos Fred & Bony Schwanke Cross of Christ WELS U of M, Rochester – Health Sciences
Erin Oakland Rich & Jenny Oakland St. John’s LCMS Carthage College – Classical Studies
Austin Oberlander Robert & Brenda Oberlander Salem WELS Bemidji State – Music/Psychology
Rachel Oelke Steve & Stephanie Oelke Living Word Model College of Hair Design - Cosmetology
Jackson Ohlendorf Chris Ohlendorf & Tracy Ohlendorf King of Grace ELS U of M, Twin Cities – Mechanical Engineering
Shaun O’ Neel Tom & Diane O’Neel Mt. Olive WELS USMC
Mariama Owusu Alhaji Razak & Mayfred Owusu Holy Trinity WELS College – Sociology
Jordan Pannier Steve & Cynthia Pannier Redeemer LCMS USMC followed by NDSU – Engineering
Anneliese Preus Erik & Jody Preus St. John’s LCMS Luther College – Nursing
Kyler Sawtelle David & Nancy Sawtelle Redeemer Reformed Hennepin Technical College - Undecided
Leah Sawtelle Rev. Jim & Thelma Sawtelle Redeemer Reformed North Hennepin CC – Music Therapy
Ashley Schendel Billy & Joni Schendel Salem WELS UND – Physical Therapy
Sarah Schulz Cory & Deborah Schulz Redeemer LCMS College - Undecided
Matthew Slauson Lynn Slauson & Michael Slauson St. John’s LCMS Minnesota State Mankato – Computer Engineering
Megan Steffel Dan & Kim Steffel Cross of Christ WELS UW, River Falls – Agronomy
Joshua Stegman Loren & Charlotte Stegman Holy Trinity WELS North Hennepin CC – Law Enforcement
Warren Taylor Rick & Cyndy Taylor King of Grace WELS UW, River Falls – Biology/Pre-Optometry
Andrew Toelle Steven & Laura Toelle Glory of Christ LCMS Anoka Ramsey CC – Associate in Arts
Jordan Vieths David & Kim Vieths Mt. Olive WELS Undecided
Ashley Wald Ron & Michele Wald Plymouth Covenant University of St. Thomas – Marketing
Jonathan Westberg Ed & Kerrie Westberg King of Grace ELS Bethel University – Biological Sciences, Pre-Med
Aimie Wiechmann David & Ann Wiechmann Ascension WELS Bethany – Undecided
Sherif Yousef Farag Youssef & Mergat Girgis Holy Trinity WELS North Hennepin CC – Mechanical Engineering
Yuning Zhou Zhou Zhiyong & Sun Tao Wayzata Free Northwest Missouri State University – Marketing
Tyler Zemke Thomas & Tammie Zemke Grace ELCA National Guard/MN State, Mankato – Undecided
West Lutheran High School • 3350 Harbor LN N • Plymouth, MN 55447 • (763) 509-9378 • info@wlhs.net • www.wlhs.net

2012 Valedictorians and Salutatorians
Based on the highest grade point average, Daniel Kieffer and Warren Taylor both with a 4.05 GPA have been named valedictorians for the Class of
2012 and Riley Gehl and Aimie Wiechmann both with a 3.98 GPA have been named the salutatorians for the Class of 2012.
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Valedictorian: Daniel Kieffer
Daniel participated in basketball, soccer
and golf throughout his years at
West. He was the captain of all three
of those teams his senior year. He was
on the Honor Roll all four years and
a member of the National Honor Society
his junior and senior years. He
is a member at Redeemer Lutheran
Church in Wayzata. Daniel will attend
the University of Minnesota, Twin
Cities where he will study Biomedical
Engineering.
Salutatorian: Riley Gehl
Riley participated in football, basketball,
and baseball all fours years
and track his freshman year. He
was captain of the baseball team his
sophomore, junior and senior years
and captain of the football and basketball
teams his junior and senior
years. Riley was also a member of
Pep Band. He was on the Honor Roll
all four years and a member of the
Student Council and National Honor
Society his junior and senior years.
In addition, he was a state finalist for
the “Triple A” (Academics, Arts and
Athletics) Award in 2012. Riley is a member of St. John’s Lutheran
Church in Corcoran. Next year, he will attend Bethel University
where he will study Business and Mathematics.
2012 Spirit Award
Each year the faculty chooses a student to be the recipient of
the Spirit Award. Each faculty member nominates two individuals
they think are worthy of best exemplifying the kind of school
spirit based on the following criteria: a positive Christian attitude,
leadership, enthusiasm, dependability, and the “encouragement”
of all. This year’s recipient is senior, Erin Oakland.
Erin is the daughter of Rich and Jenny Oakland. She attends
St. John’s Lutheran Church in Corcoran. While at West, Erin
participated in soccer, basketball (captain senior year) and Drama.
Erin was a member of student council where she served
as treasurer and was a member of the National Honor Society.
Erin will be attending Carthage College, in Kenosha, Wisconsin
in the fall, where she will be majoring in classical studies.
Congratulations, Erin!
Valedictorian: Warren Taylor
Warren participated in drama and
lettered both his junior and senior
years. He was on the Honor Roll all
four years and a member of the National
Honor Society his junior and
senior years. He is a member at
King of Grace Lutheran Church in
Golden Valley. Warren will attend
the University of Wisconsin, River
Falls where he will study Biology/
Pre-Optometry.
Salutatorian: Aimie Wiechmann
Aimie participated in soccer her freshman
and sophomore years, volleyball
her junior and senior years, and softball
and basketball all four years. She
was captain of the basketball and softball
team her senior year. Aimie was
on Student Council her freshman and
sophomore years and a member of the
National Honor Society her junior and
senior years. She was on the Honor
Roll all four years. Aimie will attend
Bethany Lutheran College next year
and is undecided on her major.
2012 Class Selections
Class Verse: “Be strong and
courageous. Do not be afraid
or terrified because of them,
for the Lord your God goes
with you; he will never leave
you nor forsake you. “
Deuteronomy 31:6
Class Colors: Purple and Silver
Class Flower: Gerbera Daisy
Class Song: “On Eagles Wings”
See complete list of scholarships awarded to this year’s graduates at
http://wlhs.net/2012Scholarships.
West Lutheran High School • 3350 Harbor LN N • Plymouth, MN 55447 • (763) 509-9378 • info@wlhs.net • www.wlhs.net

8
Prom is an Underwater Fantasy
On April 27, sixty-seven students escaped to an enchanting underwater world “In the Depth of the
Sea” at the 2012 West Lutheran Prom held at the Crowne Plaza in Plymouth, MN. The Prom festivities
began with a social hour in the Europa room which was decorated with colorful underwater wall
murals and a sunken ship complete with masts and lost treasure. After the social hour, the students
sailed into the Copenhagen room for dinner where tables were adorned with fish bowl centerpieces
with live fish. Following a welcome and prayer by Greyson St. Martin, the guests dined on Caesar
salad, a choice of fried shrimp with broiled tilapia or chicken, and chocolate passion
dessert.
Once dinner was finished, the students joined their parents who had gathered in the
Europa room. As a pre-Grand March tradition, the students posed with their dates,
friends, grade school classmates and teams to the delight of the parent paparazzi.
The students were then introduced by Sharon Gieseke as they walked through a
hole in the sunken ship during the Grand March. The evening concluded with a
dance from nine to midnight chaperoned by Greg and Melissa Baures.
Seniors Bond at Retreat
As their days at West Lutheran were coming to an end, the senior class had one last opportunity to bond as a group and to make some lasting
memories of their high school experience during the Senior Retreat May 10-13. The seniors stayed at St. Andrew’s Village in Spicer, Minnesota
where they enjoyed kayaking, canoeing, swimming, bonfires, and their favorite activity, seeing how many people can fit in a rowboat.
During the afternoon on Friday, the class and chaperones went paint balling at the Crossfire Course in St. Cloud. Even though some of the girls
were pretty nervous, everyone was entrenched in the paintball wars. Even Pastor Neitzel showed off his impressive duck and roll moves.
The class participated in archery, rock climbing and cooperation programs at Prairie Woods Environmental Center on Saturday. Everyone was
encouraging each other whether it was doing flying squirrel impressions on a high ropes course or climbing the rock wall. Shaun O’Neel even
won the award for most amazing moves on the rock wall.
The seniors enjoyed delicious meals at the camp, along with awesome popcorn and smores at night. After dinner the seniors often got together
and played soccer and volleyball. Mr. Schroeder even showed his impressive moves during the soccer game.
The retreat concluded with chapel and the seniors singing an emotional “I Am But a Stranger Here.” Jake Behmer gave a wonderful chapel devotion
reminding seniors that they have many blessings here but heaven is our true home.
West Lutheran High School • 3350 Harbor LN N • Plymouth, MN 55447 • (763) 509-9378 • info@wlhs.net • www.wlhs.net

9
Students Serve
Others
`
Thirty-five students spent the afternoon
on April 27 making greeting
cards to bring cheer to shut-ins. The
crafting supplies along with pizza and
soda were provided by Thrivent Financial.
The over 100 cards made will be
delivered by grade school students to
individuals in nursing homes as part of
another Thrivent service project.
Students Serve
the World
On May 11, West Lutheran freshmen
and sophomores spent the
morning serving at Feed My Starving
Children in Coon Rapids. With a
total of 84 people (there was another
small group there also), 158 boxes
were filled with 34,128 meals which
is enough to feed 94 kids one meal
a day for a year. The total cost of
the meals boxed was $7508. These
meals will be delivered to Sierra Leone
and Liberia.
Students Serve
Their School
In the afternoon on May 11, the
freshmen and sophomores worked
on various service projects in and
around the school. Inside, students
cleaned classrooms, dusted the
trophy cases, scraped gum off the
floors, and organized storage rooms.
Outside, the students cleaned the
pond, trimmed shrubs, planted perennial
gardens and pulled and
sprayed weeds.
Annual Garage and Bake Sale is a Huge Success
The 2012 West Lutheran Garage and Bake Sale, held on May 11 and 12, was a huge success due to the planning of the garage sale committee
and the hours and donations given by West students, friends and families. Starting the planning for the garage sale in March, the
garage sale committee put in countless hours preparing for the sale including many late evenings. This year’s garage sale committee, consisting
of alumni and current parents and students, included Sarah Bilitz, Lorraine Gerdes, Heather Herzig, Zoe Herzig, JoAnn Hinnenthal,
Patty Lindgren, Marianna McCrea, Carey Moss, Jill Rindt, Cathy Trebesch, and Paige Vollbrecht. Thank you for your expertise and love for
West in producing a successful sale.
During the week of the sale, donations started to pour in on Monday and continued through Thursday. With a dedicated group of thirteen
alumni parents, forty-one current parents, eighteen supporters from our association churches, three alumni students and thirty current students,
the items were sorted, tagged and displayed in preparation for the opening of the sale at 9 a.m. Friday morning. With many being a
part of the National Honor Society, the students put in hours in the evening and their efforts were a huge help. In addition, Mr. Schroeder’s
Accounting students put out flyers and signs and Mrs. Schroeder’s 9th grade PE girls helped sort bags and tag items on Wednesday.
Many parents and association members donated baked goods for the bake sale consisting of freshly baked pies, cookies, bars, cinnamon
rolls, apple butter, breads, muffins, and other goodies. A group of girls stayed up Thursday night baking and decorating cupcakes until
3:00 a.m.
With the sale opening at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 11, twelve freshmen and sophomore students were assigned to greet and assist shoppers
with an additional six students helping out in the afternoon as part of the 9th and 10th grade service day. With their smiling faces greeting
people, offering to help them carry their items and thanking them for shopping, these students provided wonderful customer service. A
steady group of shoppers came through on Friday with the sale ending at 7:00 p.m.
The sale continued on Saturday at 8:00 a.m. and ended at 4:00 p.m. Many shoppers took advantage of the $5.00 bag sale and half price
sale from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Saturday.
Phil Meitner and a group of 9th and 10th grade students came to assist the other volunteers with the huge cleanup task on Saturday evening
after the sale ended. Leftovers were sent to the Wise Penny (part of the proceeds come back to West) and the Salvation Army.
West grossed $6,508.80 and will receive an additional $750.00 from Thrivent. Funds will go toward Tuition Assistance. Thank you everyone
who contributed, whether it was with a donation, time working, or baking. Also, thank you to Foursome’s clothing store and King of
Grace for loaning their clothing racks.
West Lutheran High School • 3350 Harbor LN N • Plymouth, MN 55447 • (763) 509-9378 • info@wlhs.net • www.wlhs.net

10
West Gives the Gift of Life with Blood Drive
Jordan Vieths giving a double red
blood cell donation.
Life is a precious gift from God. On May 14, West Lutheran High School students, faculty, staff and parents helped
preserve that gift by participating in the Spring Blood Drive in the WLHS gymnasium. The event was sponsored
by the West Student Council. The day began with the Student Council hosting a donor’s breakfast at 7:30 which
included fruit, muffins, and pancakes. With 31 donors, 35 units (pints) of blood, which included 7 double red
blood cell donations, were collected and donated to Memorial Blood Centers of Minneapolis.
Because blood can be broken down into three components, plasma, platelets and red blood cells, the 21 whole
blood and 14 double red cell units collected at the West Lutheran High School drive can be used to save 105 lives.
Double red blood cell donation is similar to whole blood donation, except a machine separates and collects two
units of red blood cells and then returns the remaining blood components, the plasma and platelets, back to you,
along with some saline. Because of the return of the plasma and platelets and the addition of saline, the donor
doesn’t lose the liquid portion of the blood and will actually feel more hydrated after giving.
Since the first Blood Drive at West in March of 2007, the students, faculty, staff and parents of West have given
310 pints of life-saving blood. Thanks to those who donated food and funds toward the breakfast and to West
parents, Becky Clement and Susan Nelson, who helped donors check-in and handed out snacks.
Learning Outside the Classroom
AP History Class Tours Lakewood Cemetery
The AP US history class
took a field trip to the Lakewood
Cemetery in Minneapolis
on Tuesday, May 15.
The class toured the beautiful
chapel where many weddings
are held. Visiting the
crematorium, the students
learned about cremation.
Looking at the beautiful period
cemetery architecture
and gravestones, the students
learned the meaning
of the symbols on the markers.
They also discovered
that there are six former
governors, United States
senators, and even Tiny Tim
buried at the cemetery. Trivia
question...Was Tiny Tim
buried with his famous ukulele
The class was thankful
for the beautiful weather
and for Phil Peterson driving
that big yellow school bus
through the cemetery flawlessly!
(Answer: Yes)
Art and Computer Graphics
Classes Explore Museum
On Tuesday, April 24, twenty-six students
from West visited the Minneapolis Sculpture
Garden and Minneapolis Institute of
Arts (MIA). Students were from the Drawing
and Painting class, Computer Graphics
and Design, and a few International
Seniors went along for the cultural experience.
At the Sculpture Garden, students
took pictures of the early spring flowers and the recently repainted
spoon and cherry. At MIA, the students enjoyed a guided tour of “The
Sports Show” and then explored other areas of the museum.
General Chemistry Conducts a Stream Study
During the final quarter of 11th grade General Chemistry, the class has
been piloting a variation to the traditional course. This class has become
a mixture of chemistry
and environmental topics
such as the geology and
chemistry of our aquifers,
the organic chemistry
behind fossil fuels and
the ecology of our local
streams. Activities have
included comparative
tests of tap water from
student homes, the production
of biodiesel and
as you can see from the
photograph, an analysis
of the Crow River where
it crosses Hwy 55.
Physics Students
Study at ValleyFair
On the last day of school the senior
Physics students took a field
trip to Valleyfair. Here the students
used concepts and skills
they acquired throughout the year
to learn about the engineering required to keep the
rides safe while still providing a thrill. The students
made measurements from a number of rides using
various home-made devices and then where
required to answer a series of questions regarding
the physics of the ride. Of course, they had a great
deal of fun riding these rides too. What a great way
to spend the last day of their high school career!
Students Experience Cultures
On Friday, May 4, the freshman geography class
participated in a field trip to the annual Festival of
Nations World Culture Fair at the River Centre in
St. Paul. Students experienced the many cultures
with tasting of ethnic foods, viewing items in the
country’s booths, and watching demonstrations of dance, games and
crafts. With a mock-passport, the students also were assigned to write
a 2-page detailed report on their experience at the Festival of Nations.
West Lutheran High School • 3350 Harbor LN N • Plymouth, MN 55447 • (763) 509-9378 • info@wlhs.net • www.wlhs.net

11
Field of Dreams is Coming True
With the help of some wonderful friends of West
Lutheran, local businesses and generous volunteers,
the campaign to build a classic ballpark on
our campus to help bring attention to our school
is well underway. If you haven’t visited the field
lately, please stop by and see what has been
done. Here are many of the improvements that
upgrade the spectator and player experience:
• New covered dugouts (special thanks to Mike
Liberato, Bill Schendel, Tim Hallstrom and
Mike Recht)
• New logo dugout windscreens
(thanks to Karla Smith and Steve Forsberg)
• New sound system and electrical infrastructure
• New sponsor recognition bleacher billboard
(thanks to Scott Anderson & Dennis Leerson)
• New sponsor paver brick patio
• New player practice areas
• New bright yellow foul poles
Several improvements have also been made
through collaboration grant we received from
the Twins Fund (thanks to Ken Olson for your
excellent work).
• Upgraded the batter’s box
• Upgraded the catcher’s area
• Upgraded the bases, home plate and pitching
rubber
• Added outfield fence guards
• Repaired chain link fence
• Made turf improvements
The Field of Dreams program is an ongoing fundraiser
still available to anyone who is interested
to help support the West Lutheran Baseball
Program. On behalf of the coaches, the athletic
director, the players, managers, and the Field of
Dreams committee, please accept our sincere
gratitude for all of your support.
New covered dugout with logo windscreen.
Spring Sports Shine
Young Golf Team Ends Season Strong
The spring golf season was very enjoyable for the team, and the weather was very cooperative.
A young team with a promising future is the best depiction of the 2012 team.
The squad consisted of 10 players led by senior captain Dan Kieffer. Also graduating
this year is Tyler Zemke. The lone Junior player was Nathan Studanski. Promising
sophomores included Austin Jensen, Matt Eckberg, Ben Melott and Logan Zemke.
The freshmen golfers included Josh Pannier, Aaron Wald, and the lone Lady Warrior
Sydney Bursch.
The team capped off their season with their best scoring of the year at the Conference
Finals, 369 in the 18 hole event held at Fox Hollow in St. Michael. Most Valuable
Player this year was Austin Jensen, and the Most Improved Player was Josh Pannier.
Girls and Boys Track Make Strides
The West Track team concluded its regular season
on May 19 with the MCAA conference meet
in Richfield. This season the team had seven
track meets: Faribault Invitational, St. Croix,
Maple Lake, Leo Bond, Princeton, Watertown-
Mayer, and the MCAA Conference meet. At the
conference meet on May 19, the girls’ team finished
in 6th place. The guys’ team finished in
2nd place behind New Life Academy. On May
24, the teams participated in the sub-section
track meet to be held at Watertown-Mayer.
During the year, many of the team members continued to make great progress, setting
personal records throughout the season in their various events. Irina Dehn had a
tremendous year, finishing first in the mile at four of the seven track meets. Irina set a
personal record and a school record in the mile at Watertown-Mayer running the mile
in 5:28. Irina and Aracely Montecinos finished 1st and 2nd respectively among the girls
in points accumulated. Among the guys, Shaun O’Neel and AJ Volberding finished first
and second respectively in points accumulated. The most improved track team members
were Alayna Dehn for her work in the triple jump and 100 meter dash and Ryan
Bensen for his work in the 400 meter dash.
We thank our captains for their leadership this year: Aracely Montecinos, Shaun
O’Neel, Scott Anderson, Ryan Behmer, AJ Volberding, and Caleb Skorseth. We also
thank Annie Erickson for being the team manager. Finally, we thank Gary Volberding
for his valuable work with the program for the last three years.
Warrior Baseball has Fantastic Regular Season
The West baseball team ended the regular season 18-1. They are seeded #1 in section
4A. The Warriors are currently ranked 1st in Class A in the MN baseball coaches
poll and have been in the top four all season. Congratulations to our five all-conference
selections: Blake Molitor, Justin Anderson, Dustin Barth, Shea Molitor and Morgan
Barth. Blake Molitor received an additional honor of being selected to the Lions
All-star game (June 21-23) which features the top 80 players in the state.
Warrior Softball Season Concludes
West boys team and coaches with
MCAA Conference 2nd place trophy.
With the regular season ending strong with six straight wins and an overall record of
11-5, the West Lutheran Softball season ended in the second game of the playoffs
with a loss to Legacy Christian Academy. Congratulations to the All-Conference selections:
Ashley Schendel, Aimie Wiechmann, Jordyn Stromback, and Megan Steffel.
Ashley and Amy were also named to the All-Section team.
For team awards: Ashley Schendel and Amy Wiechmann were named MVPs, Laura
Kolander was honored as Most Improved and Megan Steffel received the Hustle
Award. Coaches Bill Schendel and Bill Vollbrecht were proud of their team with their
upbeat and “never give up” attitudes.
The coaches would like to thank assistant coaches Jenna Gehl, Al Stromback, and
Doug Beise for all the hard work and time spent with the team. They are also grateful
for the dedicated parents for their support throughout the season.
West Lutheran High School • 3350 Harbor LN N • Plymouth, MN 55447 • (763) 509-9378 • info@wlhs.net • www.wlhs.net

West Lutheran High School
3350 Harbor Lane N
Plymouth, MN 55447-5255
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
Pops and Awards Concert
Friday, May 18 may have been hot outside
but the music was “cool” at the Pops and
Awards Concert. The evening began with
several pre-concert performances including
a joint band selection which included several
association school band students. The
concert band, freshman choir, concert choir
and Western Accents performed a range
of popular arrangements from the classic
march “Stars and Stripes Forever” to the current
Adele hit “Rolling in the Deep.” Along
with the musical performances, the following
honors and awards were presented: Valedictorians
and Salutatorians, the Principal’s
Leadership Award, Spirit Award, Athletes of
the Year, Band Award and Choir Award.
Western Accents singing “Old Time Rock and Roll.”
West Crowns a Princess
On April 20-22, the West gymnasium was transformed into the magical stage of
Cinderella. Over 600 people attended the three performances and shared many
positive comments with the cast and crew. Whether you were laughing at the King
(Jackson Ohlendorf) trying to put on his
pants, getting swept away by the romance
between Cinderella (Mary Janisch) and the
Prince (Jonah Kuske), or were amazed at
the revealing of the pumpkin carriage (designed
by Jody Preus), all enjoyed a great
time.
The two stepsisters, Joy (Anneliese Preus)
and Portia (Erin Oakland) played off the
crowd and kept the audience falling out of
their chairs. A new addition to West musicals
was a live orchestra pit (Marinda Hoffmann,
Andrew Stavig, Rudy Nelson, Nate
Egeberg, and Jordan Mutterer).
Productions of this magnitude do not happen
without support of parents and friends.
A special thanks to the following adult volunteers
for making this production a success:
Sarah Bilitz and Jody Preus (Props
and Costumes), Jayne Putland (Painting
and Set Design), Del Jensen and Greg
Johnson (Set construction), Susan Nelson
(Hair), Marianna McCrea (Makeup), and
Mel Boyd (Lights and Sound). Thank you
to everyone who supported or encouraged
the cast and crew!
West Lutheran High School • 3350 Harbor LN N • Plymouth, MN 55447 • (763) 509-9378 • info@wlhs.net • www.wlhs.net