Marylou Nagel | Writer
Big J’s in Humboldt was host to a room full of West Central supporters on Saturday, March 7, for the West Central Education Foundation’s Trojan Night of Distinction. This fun annual event is a chance to honor Teacher of the Year candidates, Characters of the Quarter, Students of the Month and grant award recipients.
The West Central Education Foundation was formed by a group of local West Central supporters partnering with students, teachers and administrators to contribute to future successes. The WCEF grants funds and supports projects for our local classrooms and students. Each donation contributes to classroom grants and educational opportunities for our students.
The Night of Distinction was emceed by West Central students Charlie Berg, Bess Golden and Emma Hagel. They entertained the entire group with their enthusiasm and humor.
Attendees were treated to several varieties of homemade soups, and then had the difficult task of voting for a favorite. Troy Larson’s Shazaam soup came in first, followed by Emily Berg’s Italian sausage soup.
Many local businesses offered baskets full of items for the silent auction. Among the unique selection were gift cards, concert tickets, dog supplies and games.
A raffle was also held for a Traeger grill donated by Hartford Building Center. Congratulations to Mark Rockafellow on winning the grill!
The evening’s activities continued with naming the WCMS and WCHS Characters of the Quarter as well as the Students of the Month. Many of the honored students were present to be recognized by the group. West Central senior, Scott Howard was honored as US Senate Youth Program National Merit Scholarship Finalist.
Vince Reilly with Medicap was chosen as Business Supporter of the Year. Reilly has been a continuous supporter of the West Central School District for many years. Our communities are fortunate to have not only a knowledgeable and friendly local pharmacist but also a good friend and dedicated community member. Congratulations Vince!
The exciting announcement of the 2020 Teacher of the Year was next on the agenda. This year’s outstanding nominees included: Ben Olson, Samantha Meirose, David Tuch, DaNann Kistler and Ashley Payne. Congratulations to West Central’s 2020 Teacher of the Year, DaNann Kistler!
Innovation in Education grants were awarded to Danny Eye, to complete the purchase of 12 electric guitars,
Kristie Raasch for leveled readers, Laurie Gratz for Reading Factory to build confidence in singing abilities, Jen Poulos for skin condition kits, Mackenzie Vander Woude for putting books in all students’ hands, Janel Merkwan for the Math, Minds, and Motion tutoring project, and the Hartford Elementary Kindergarten team for their playful and active approach at teaching math through Boost Up. Congratulations to all recipients!
A big thank you to the volunteers with the West Central Education Foundation for all of their hard work and dedication to our students and staff at West Central. Thank you to Justin and Tina Kjellsen with Big J’s and local business donors for their continued support.