Marissa Grace Hitz, daughter of Troy and Teresa Hitz, attended St. John Lutheran School in Battle Creek before coming to Battle Creek High School at the start of her freshman year. Marissa is a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church.
Marissa participated in volleyball during all four years of high school, serving as captain her senior year. For her efforts on the court, Marissa earned two varsity letters and received the AVCA team academic award her junior year. Aside from volleyball, Marissa has also been involved in FFA all four years, qualifying for state all four years. She served as the organization’s secretary as a senior. She earned the FFA Greenhand Award, FFA Discovery Degree, and FFA State Degree. Throughout high school, Marissa has been on the A Honorable Mention Honor Roll, and she was selected for a Character Student of the Month on one occasion.
When asked to name a favorite teacher at the school, Marissa listed Mr. and Mrs. O’Brien. She stated, “They are both very understanding and very kind. They are always there if you ever need anything, even if it’s not school-related.” Marissa named Culinary as her favorite class saying, “I enjoyed it because it was fun to learn about food in different cultures, and it was good to learn the basics about cooking and baking: life skills everyone will need.” When asked to name a fondest memory, Marissa listed when they won the district final game on their home court to make it to state volleyball. She says that it was her favorite because “it was such a great environment in our gym that day.”
Outside of school, Marissa works at Scooter’s Coffee as a barista, a position she has held for almost two years. During her free time, she enjoys being outdoors, spending time with friends and family, and baking.
After graduation, Marissa plans to attend Northeast Community College to earn her Associate’s of Applied Science in Business. She will minor in Business Entrepreneurship.
Marissa participated in volleyball during all four years of high school, serving as captain her senior year. For her efforts on the court, Marissa earned two varsity letters and received the AVCA team academic award her junior year. Aside from volleyball, Marissa has also been involved in FFA all four years, qualifying for state all four years. She served as the organization’s secretary as a senior. She earned the FFA Greenhand Award, FFA Discovery Degree, and FFA State Degree. Throughout high school, Marissa has been on the A Honorable Mention Honor Roll, and she was selected for a Character Student of the Month on one occasion.
When asked to name a favorite teacher at the school, Marissa listed Mr. and Mrs. O’Brien. She stated, “They are both very understanding and very kind. They are always there if you ever need anything, even if it’s not school-related.” Marissa named Culinary as her favorite class saying, “I enjoyed it because it was fun to learn about food in different cultures, and it was good to learn the basics about cooking and baking: life skills everyone will need.” When asked to name a fondest memory, Marissa listed when they won the district final game on their home court to make it to state volleyball. She says that it was her favorite because “it was such a great environment in our gym that day.”
Outside of school, Marissa works at Scooter’s Coffee as a barista, a position she has held for almost two years. During her free time, she enjoys being outdoors, spending time with friends and family, and baking.
After graduation, Marissa plans to attend Northeast Community College to earn her Associate’s of Applied Science in Business. She will minor in Business Entrepreneurship.
Join us Sunday night for BC Speech's Pre-District Showcase!
The event is open to the public and will be your final chance to catch these performances before the team travels to districts on Tuesday.
Hope to see you there!
Xander David Larson, son of James and Stacey Larson, attended St. John Lutheran School in Battle Creek before coming to Battle Creek High School at the beginning of his freshman year. Xander is an active member of St. John Lutheran Church.
Xander participated in basketball and track during all four years of high school, earning three and four letters, respectively. He played football for one season. Xander served as a captain of the basketball team his senior year.
Aside from athletics, Xander was a member of the National Honor Society for two years, serving as vice president his senior year. Xander also served as a Trailblazer for the past two years. Throughout high school, Xander served many leadership positions: he was class president as a freshman and sophomore, and he was vice president of his junior and senior classes.
For his efforts in the classroom, Xander received Student of the Month honors on four occasions. Xander listed his favorite teacher as Mr. Ryan Heller, stating, “He knows how to have fun and be productive. He cracks jokes that are on topic, and he is a great teacher. He never lets a student fall behind.” Xander listed his favorite subject as math because “the answer is either right or wrong.” Xander’s favorite memory from his time at BCHS involves a prank he played on Mr. Junior Aguilar: he flipped all the drawers and posters in his classroom upside down, “stole” his large periodic table, and wrapped his car in Saran Wrap.
After high school, Xander plans to play basketball at Doane University in Crete, Nebraska. While there, he will study engineering.
Xander participated in basketball and track during all four years of high school, earning three and four letters, respectively. He played football for one season. Xander served as a captain of the basketball team his senior year.
Aside from athletics, Xander was a member of the National Honor Society for two years, serving as vice president his senior year. Xander also served as a Trailblazer for the past two years. Throughout high school, Xander served many leadership positions: he was class president as a freshman and sophomore, and he was vice president of his junior and senior classes.
For his efforts in the classroom, Xander received Student of the Month honors on four occasions. Xander listed his favorite teacher as Mr. Ryan Heller, stating, “He knows how to have fun and be productive. He cracks jokes that are on topic, and he is a great teacher. He never lets a student fall behind.” Xander listed his favorite subject as math because “the answer is either right or wrong.” Xander’s favorite memory from his time at BCHS involves a prank he played on Mr. Junior Aguilar: he flipped all the drawers and posters in his classroom upside down, “stole” his large periodic table, and wrapped his car in Saran Wrap.
After high school, Xander plans to play basketball at Doane University in Crete, Nebraska. While there, he will study engineering.
Jacey Kiera Hassler, daughter of Chris and Melinda Hassler, attended St. John Lutheran School in Battle Creek before coming to Battle Creek High School at the start of her seventh grade year. Jacey is an active member of St. John Lutheran Church in Battle Creek.
While at BCHS, Jacey was involved in numerous activities. She participated in FCCLA and One Act Play Production during all four years of high school. She participated in speech for three seasons and was a member of FFA as a freshman and sophomore. As a freshman, she competed in wrestling. Jacey also served as a Trailblazer for the past two years.
When asked to name a favorite staff member at BCHS, Jacey listed Mrs. Stephanie Nelson because “she is very easy to talk to and makes her class very fun.” Jacey named art as her favorite class during the day because she can express her creativity.
Outside of school, Jacey is employed at Heritage of Bel - Air as a CNA. In her free time, she likes to paint, go shopping, and spend time with friends and family.
After graduation, Jacey will attend Northeast Community College as part of the Physical Therapy Assistant Program.
While at BCHS, Jacey was involved in numerous activities. She participated in FCCLA and One Act Play Production during all four years of high school. She participated in speech for three seasons and was a member of FFA as a freshman and sophomore. As a freshman, she competed in wrestling. Jacey also served as a Trailblazer for the past two years.
When asked to name a favorite staff member at BCHS, Jacey listed Mrs. Stephanie Nelson because “she is very easy to talk to and makes her class very fun.” Jacey named art as her favorite class during the day because she can express her creativity.
Outside of school, Jacey is employed at Heritage of Bel - Air as a CNA. In her free time, she likes to paint, go shopping, and spend time with friends and family.
After graduation, Jacey will attend Northeast Community College as part of the Physical Therapy Assistant Program.
Trenten Frank Volk, son of Ryan and Ashley Volk, attended Battle Creek Public Schools for all fourteen years of his education.
Trent was active in football and FFA during high school. When asked to name a favorite staff member at BCHS, Trent listed Mr. Mark Keith because he offered practical advice and life lessons that have prepared him for the future.
Outside of school, Trent enjoys farming, hunting, autobody work, auto repair, shooting hoops, playing video games, camping, and spending time with friends.
After graduation, he will pursue his dream career in auto collision repair at Southeast Community College in Milford.
Trent was active in football and FFA during high school. When asked to name a favorite staff member at BCHS, Trent listed Mr. Mark Keith because he offered practical advice and life lessons that have prepared him for the future.
Outside of school, Trent enjoys farming, hunting, autobody work, auto repair, shooting hoops, playing video games, camping, and spending time with friends.
After graduation, he will pursue his dream career in auto collision repair at Southeast Community College in Milford.
3-PEAT!! 🎉 State Wrestling Championship shirts are now available online! Be sure to place your order before March 27 at 10 AM.
https://bc3peat2026.itemorder.com/shop/home/
https://bc3peat2026.itemorder.com/shop/home/
Reminder that the State FCCLA store closes TOMORROW at 10:00am! No late orders will be accepted.
https://bcstatefccla2026.itemorder.com/shop/home/
https://bcstatefccla2026.itemorder.com/shop/home/
The BC Speech Team had another very successful weekend of competition. On Saturday, the team traveled to Creighton for the Prime Time Invite. Out of 22 schools, the team finished the day as tournament champions! With a quick turnaround, the team then traveled to Riverside on Monday for one final tune-up before districts. Out of 19 schools, BC finished as tournament runner-up. This Sunday, the 15th, the district team will be showcasing all of their events at the high school starting at 6:00 PM. Next Tuesday, the team will head out to Atkinson for the C1–5 District Tournament.
The BC Boys Golf apparel store is open! ⛳ Check out BC Golf gear and great generic BC apparel you can wear to support Battle Creek at any event.
🗓 Orders close Monday, March 16 at 10:00 AM.
Shop here: https://bc-boys-golf-26.itemorder.com/shop/home/
This BC crew has prepared all day at WSC for the Mid State Conference Instrumental Music Concert! This will be Mrs. Lade's last Conference concert as the leader of our band, as she transitions to a new role at BC next year. A big shoutout to her for all she has done!
Korbyn Lee Barefield Greve, son of Donita and Brian Summers, attended Battle Creek Public Schools for all fourteen years of his education.
While at BCHS, Korbyn played football and participated in track for four seasons each. In football, he was an all district honorable mention athlete. Korbyn was also a member of the band throughout high school.
When asked to name a favorite staff member at BCHS, Korbyn listed Mr. Andy Erbst, stating, “He is just a really great guy.” Korbyn named Construction as his favorite class because of the hands-on work that goes into the class. His fondest memory at BCHS took place in Construction class junior year when he shot a nail through his finger.
Outside of school, Korbyn works at Cornhusker International, a job he has held for almost a year. In his free time, Korbyn likes to go to the race track and he enjoys playing poker with his friends.
After graduation, Korbyn plans to go directly into the workforce; he plans to remain with Cornhusker International. He will train with them to become a diesel technician.
While at BCHS, Korbyn played football and participated in track for four seasons each. In football, he was an all district honorable mention athlete. Korbyn was also a member of the band throughout high school.
When asked to name a favorite staff member at BCHS, Korbyn listed Mr. Andy Erbst, stating, “He is just a really great guy.” Korbyn named Construction as his favorite class because of the hands-on work that goes into the class. His fondest memory at BCHS took place in Construction class junior year when he shot a nail through his finger.
Outside of school, Korbyn works at Cornhusker International, a job he has held for almost a year. In his free time, Korbyn likes to go to the race track and he enjoys playing poker with his friends.
After graduation, Korbyn plans to go directly into the workforce; he plans to remain with Cornhusker International. He will train with them to become a diesel technician.
Xander Foulk, son of Curt and Jasmine Foulk, came to Battle Creek Public Schools in the fourth grade.
When asked to name a favorite class at BCHS, Xander listed English IV because he loves the small group and enjoys the books that they read. Xander mentioned that his favorite instructor from his time at the school was former shop teacher Mr. Mike Couch. Xander stated that Mr. Couch was very funny and got him interested in the construction industry. When asked to name a fondest memory, Xander mentioned his first time going to a football game with all his friends.
Outside of school, Xander holds a job at Kentucky Fried Chicken where he has been a cook for the past three years. During his free time, Xander enjoys working and hanging out with friends.
After high school, Xander will attend Northeast Community College where he will take the six-week trucking course to earn his CDL license.
When asked to name a favorite class at BCHS, Xander listed English IV because he loves the small group and enjoys the books that they read. Xander mentioned that his favorite instructor from his time at the school was former shop teacher Mr. Mike Couch. Xander stated that Mr. Couch was very funny and got him interested in the construction industry. When asked to name a fondest memory, Xander mentioned his first time going to a football game with all his friends.
Outside of school, Xander holds a job at Kentucky Fried Chicken where he has been a cook for the past three years. During his free time, Xander enjoys working and hanging out with friends.
After high school, Xander will attend Northeast Community College where he will take the six-week trucking course to earn his CDL license.
The BCPS Hall of Fame committee is looking for nominations for the upcoming Hall of Fame Class of 2026!! Nominating is quick and easy! Just follow this link and fill out any of the nomination forms! https://www.battlecreekschools.net/page/hall-of-fame-nomination-forms
March 9th - 13th Weekly Update...
#CommittedToExcellence!
#SmallConsistentActions!
#CommittedToExcellence!
#SmallConsistentActions!
There's still time to get your State FCCLA Shirt before the store closes Thursday at 10:00am! No late orders will be accepted.
https://bcstatefccla2026.itemorder.com/shop/home/
Kolby Grace Kummer, daughter of Brent and Sally Kummer, attended Norfolk Catholic until third grade, when she came to Battle Creek Public Schools. Kolby is an active member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.
Kolby was an active member of the band for eight years, qualifying for the Class B+C All State Band and Wayne State and Northeast Hawkfest Honor Bands. She was a member of speech during all four years of high school, earning the following honors: Speech Underclassman of the Year and Newcomer of the Year. For her efforts in speech, Kolby was a state medalist. In One Act Play Production, Kolby earned various outstanding performer awards.
Aside from the fine arts, Kolby was a cheerleader throughout high school, and she served as squad captain for two years. She was in student council throughout high school, serving as president her senior year. Kolby also participated in FFA for five years, where she was a state qualifier. She was in FCCLA for three seasons, qualifying for state. Kolby was a Trailblazer and a member of National Honor Society. In addition, she played volleyball for one season.
Outside of school, Kolby dances at TAPS Dance Studio and does piano accompaniment for elementary, junior high, and high school concerts as well as for her church. Kolby also volunteers for Mercy Meals at the Orphan Grain Train Servant Center. During the summers, Kolby nannies for the Hess family and tutors elementary students after school, something she has been doing for the past two years.
When asked to name a favorite teacher, Kolby listed Mrs. Jenni Frey, stating, “She’s always there for her students no matter what. She takes time to listen, support us, and make sure we’re doing okay, not just in school, but in life too. She genuinely cares about each of us and wants to see everyone succeed.” Kolby mentioned that Chemistry was her favorite class because she enjoyed learning about the electromagnetic spectrum. Kolby mentioned that her fondest memory from her time at BCHS was placing at state speech her junior year with her OID team and how meaningful it was because it was a goal that she hadvset for herself and worked hard to achieve.
After graduation, Kolby will attend Wayne State College to major in elementary education. She hopes to teach first or second grade.
Kolby was an active member of the band for eight years, qualifying for the Class B+C All State Band and Wayne State and Northeast Hawkfest Honor Bands. She was a member of speech during all four years of high school, earning the following honors: Speech Underclassman of the Year and Newcomer of the Year. For her efforts in speech, Kolby was a state medalist. In One Act Play Production, Kolby earned various outstanding performer awards.
Aside from the fine arts, Kolby was a cheerleader throughout high school, and she served as squad captain for two years. She was in student council throughout high school, serving as president her senior year. Kolby also participated in FFA for five years, where she was a state qualifier. She was in FCCLA for three seasons, qualifying for state. Kolby was a Trailblazer and a member of National Honor Society. In addition, she played volleyball for one season.
Outside of school, Kolby dances at TAPS Dance Studio and does piano accompaniment for elementary, junior high, and high school concerts as well as for her church. Kolby also volunteers for Mercy Meals at the Orphan Grain Train Servant Center. During the summers, Kolby nannies for the Hess family and tutors elementary students after school, something she has been doing for the past two years.
When asked to name a favorite teacher, Kolby listed Mrs. Jenni Frey, stating, “She’s always there for her students no matter what. She takes time to listen, support us, and make sure we’re doing okay, not just in school, but in life too. She genuinely cares about each of us and wants to see everyone succeed.” Kolby mentioned that Chemistry was her favorite class because she enjoyed learning about the electromagnetic spectrum. Kolby mentioned that her fondest memory from her time at BCHS was placing at state speech her junior year with her OID team and how meaningful it was because it was a goal that she hadvset for herself and worked hard to achieve.
After graduation, Kolby will attend Wayne State College to major in elementary education. She hopes to teach first or second grade.
Big shoutout to our parents of our PTO, as they are this month's sponsor for the 'Heart Cart' at Battle Creek Elementary School. The parents spoiled our staff with homemade cinnamon rolls and all the items on the cart. Thank you from the entire Battle Creek Elementary Staff!
#CommittedToExcellence!
#BattleCreekElementaryPTO
#CommittedToExcellence!
#BattleCreekElementaryPTO
Anderson (Andy) Michael Ricchio, son of Jaci and Jesse Ricchio, attended Norfolk Catholic for preschool before coming to Battle Creek Public Schools in kindergarten. Andy is an active member of the Heart of Jesus Catholic Parishes.
Andy participated in football and track throughout high school, and he played basketball for one season. For his efforts on the gridiron, Andy was named the Most Improved Football Player in 2024 and team captain as a senior. In track, Andy and his teammates hold the school record in the sprint relay. While at the state track meet in 2025, Andy claimed a silver medal for his efforts in the sprint relay, the gold medal in the 200-meter dash, and another silver in the 100-meter dash. In 2025, he was voted the Most Improved Athlete at the school during the spring athletic banquet. Aside from athletics, Andy has served as a Trailblazer at the school during the past two years.
When asked to name a fondest memory from his time at BCHS, Andy mentioned the 2025 track season as well as state track that year. He noted, “It was cool to break the sprint relay record many times during the season, and I enjoyed earning medals at the state meet for the sprints.”
Andy mentioned Physics as his favorite class, stating, "Mr. Junior Aguilar is a fun teacher, and building the projects has been fun.” He listed his favorite teacher as Mr. Dylan Hawk, saying, “Over the past two years, we have bonded in the classroom and out on the field. I look at him as a role model who impacted my life for the better.”
Outside of school, Andy enjoys camping with friends and family and deer hunting. He also works part-time for Lingenfelter Electric.
After high school, Andy plans to attend Northeast Community College to study in the electrical and construction programs.
Andy participated in football and track throughout high school, and he played basketball for one season. For his efforts on the gridiron, Andy was named the Most Improved Football Player in 2024 and team captain as a senior. In track, Andy and his teammates hold the school record in the sprint relay. While at the state track meet in 2025, Andy claimed a silver medal for his efforts in the sprint relay, the gold medal in the 200-meter dash, and another silver in the 100-meter dash. In 2025, he was voted the Most Improved Athlete at the school during the spring athletic banquet. Aside from athletics, Andy has served as a Trailblazer at the school during the past two years.
When asked to name a fondest memory from his time at BCHS, Andy mentioned the 2025 track season as well as state track that year. He noted, “It was cool to break the sprint relay record many times during the season, and I enjoyed earning medals at the state meet for the sprints.”
Andy mentioned Physics as his favorite class, stating, "Mr. Junior Aguilar is a fun teacher, and building the projects has been fun.” He listed his favorite teacher as Mr. Dylan Hawk, saying, “Over the past two years, we have bonded in the classroom and out on the field. I look at him as a role model who impacted my life for the better.”
Outside of school, Andy enjoys camping with friends and family and deer hunting. He also works part-time for Lingenfelter Electric.
After high school, Andy plans to attend Northeast Community College to study in the electrical and construction programs.
Chloe May Wattier, daughter of Cassie and Randy Wattier, attended Norfolk Catholic through seventh grade before transferring to Battle Creek High School as an eighth grader. She is an active member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Norfolk.
During her time at Battle Creek, Chloe was involved in numerous activities. She participated in wrestling during her freshman and sophomore years, played volleyball from freshman through junior year, and was an active member of FFA during all four years of high school. Through her dedication to FFA, she qualified for the state convention three times.
When asked to name a favorite teacher, Chloe chose Mr. Billy O’Brien, sharing that she enjoys the agriculture classes he offers and appreciates the many opportunities he provides through FFA. Chloe listed government as her favorite class, as she enjoys learning how the country is run and values staying informed about current events.
One of Chloe’s favorite high school memories was attending the state FFA convention during her sophomore year. She especially enjoyed spending time with her friends and walking around downtown Lincoln.
Outside of school, Chloe works at Menards, a job she has held for the past year. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, going on walks, and shopping.
After graduation, Chloe plans to attend Wayne State College as a Career Scholar, where she will major in human resource management.
During her time at Battle Creek, Chloe was involved in numerous activities. She participated in wrestling during her freshman and sophomore years, played volleyball from freshman through junior year, and was an active member of FFA during all four years of high school. Through her dedication to FFA, she qualified for the state convention three times.
When asked to name a favorite teacher, Chloe chose Mr. Billy O’Brien, sharing that she enjoys the agriculture classes he offers and appreciates the many opportunities he provides through FFA. Chloe listed government as her favorite class, as she enjoys learning how the country is run and values staying informed about current events.
One of Chloe’s favorite high school memories was attending the state FFA convention during her sophomore year. She especially enjoyed spending time with her friends and walking around downtown Lincoln.
Outside of school, Chloe works at Menards, a job she has held for the past year. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, going on walks, and shopping.
After graduation, Chloe plans to attend Wayne State College as a Career Scholar, where she will major in human resource management.
Mason Marley Moore, son of Dana and Carrie Moore, attended Battle Creek Public Schools for all thirteen years of his education.
When asked to name a favorite staff member at the school, Mason listed Mrs. Cati Witzel and Mrs. Janet Miller, stating, “When things feel overwhelming, confusing, or frustrating, they never made me feel less than anyone else. They encourage me when I doubt myself and never let me give up when I want to.” Mason noted that his favorite class was welding.
Outside of school, Mason enjoys driving in his truck and working on it. Mason also holds a part time job at Bomgaars, a position he has held for a year.
After high school, Mason plans to enter the workforce.
When asked to name a favorite staff member at the school, Mason listed Mrs. Cati Witzel and Mrs. Janet Miller, stating, “When things feel overwhelming, confusing, or frustrating, they never made me feel less than anyone else. They encourage me when I doubt myself and never let me give up when I want to.” Mason noted that his favorite class was welding.
Outside of school, Mason enjoys driving in his truck and working on it. Mason also holds a part time job at Bomgaars, a position he has held for a year.
After high school, Mason plans to enter the workforce.
