Jaiden Linn Ertzner, daughter of Justin and Staci Ertzner, attended Christ Lutheran School and St. John Lutheran School before coming to Battle Creek High School as a freshman. She is an active member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Norfolk.
Jaiden participated in wrestling for one season, and she played volleyball and golfed for two years each.
Aside from athletics, Jaiden was a member of one-act play production, speech, and FCCLA during all four years of high school. In FCCLA, she served as the Chapter Vice President of Competitive Events and the District 8 President during her sophomore year. As a junior, Jaiden served as the Nebraska FCCLA State 1st Vice President, District 8 Representative, and Chapter Vice President of Programs. Over this past year, she was the Chapter President and District 8 Representative. She also earned the Nebraska CommYOUnity and Nebraska FCCLA High Five Awards, was named a National FCCLA Member of the Year semifinalist, and was even finalist for a national office. Jaiden also served as a Trailblazer and a member of the student council for two years.
For her efforts in the classroom, Jaiden has been on the A and B Honor Rolls throughout high school. In golf and one-act play production, Jaiden earned NCPA Academic All-State Honors. She was also named Character Student of the Month on one occasion.
Jaiden stated that she had two favorite classes during her time in high school: Anatomy and Physiology with Mr. Junior Aguilar and Introduction to Literature with Mrs. Leigha Kern. She stated, “Mr. Aguilar does a great job engaging all students” and that the science class bonded so well. She enjoyed Mrs. Kern’s class because of the impact that all of the books had on her. She also greatly appreciated Mrs. Kern’s ability to transform stories into real lessons for the class. Jaiden listed her favorite staff member as Mrs. Bri O’Brien, sharing that since freshman year, she has been a person she feels she can go to for anything. Jaiden said that she pushed her to go for things she never thought possible and instilled a faith in her when she needed it most.
Jaiden’s fondest memory from her time at BCHS was State FCCLA her junior year. She enjoyed getting to lead the conference as a member of the state officer team while also getting to spend time with her fellow chapter members. She says that she will never forget her final moments as a state officer backstage with her team as they said their goodbyes.
Outside of school, Jaiden spends her time reading, playing softball, and hanging out with friends. She has been employed at Subway in Battle Creek for the past two years.
After high school, Jaiden will attend the University of Nebraska at Kearney as a member of the KLOP program where she plans to double major in political science and criminal justice. She hopes to have the chance to intern in Seattle and New York, with dreams of one day becoming a child advocacy attorney or a criminal defense attorney.
Jaiden participated in wrestling for one season, and she played volleyball and golfed for two years each.
Aside from athletics, Jaiden was a member of one-act play production, speech, and FCCLA during all four years of high school. In FCCLA, she served as the Chapter Vice President of Competitive Events and the District 8 President during her sophomore year. As a junior, Jaiden served as the Nebraska FCCLA State 1st Vice President, District 8 Representative, and Chapter Vice President of Programs. Over this past year, she was the Chapter President and District 8 Representative. She also earned the Nebraska CommYOUnity and Nebraska FCCLA High Five Awards, was named a National FCCLA Member of the Year semifinalist, and was even finalist for a national office. Jaiden also served as a Trailblazer and a member of the student council for two years.
For her efforts in the classroom, Jaiden has been on the A and B Honor Rolls throughout high school. In golf and one-act play production, Jaiden earned NCPA Academic All-State Honors. She was also named Character Student of the Month on one occasion.
Jaiden stated that she had two favorite classes during her time in high school: Anatomy and Physiology with Mr. Junior Aguilar and Introduction to Literature with Mrs. Leigha Kern. She stated, “Mr. Aguilar does a great job engaging all students” and that the science class bonded so well. She enjoyed Mrs. Kern’s class because of the impact that all of the books had on her. She also greatly appreciated Mrs. Kern’s ability to transform stories into real lessons for the class. Jaiden listed her favorite staff member as Mrs. Bri O’Brien, sharing that since freshman year, she has been a person she feels she can go to for anything. Jaiden said that she pushed her to go for things she never thought possible and instilled a faith in her when she needed it most.
Jaiden’s fondest memory from her time at BCHS was State FCCLA her junior year. She enjoyed getting to lead the conference as a member of the state officer team while also getting to spend time with her fellow chapter members. She says that she will never forget her final moments as a state officer backstage with her team as they said their goodbyes.
Outside of school, Jaiden spends her time reading, playing softball, and hanging out with friends. She has been employed at Subway in Battle Creek for the past two years.
After high school, Jaiden will attend the University of Nebraska at Kearney as a member of the KLOP program where she plans to double major in political science and criminal justice. She hopes to have the chance to intern in Seattle and New York, with dreams of one day becoming a child advocacy attorney or a criminal defense attorney.
Andrea Wintz Leaving BCHS
By Bella Moore
When the 2025-2026 school year comes to an end, Battle Creek High School will be saying goodbye to school nurse Andrea Wintz after twelve years of service.
Mrs. Wintz is an alum of Battle Creek High School, graduating in 2002. Following graduation, she attended the Northeast Community College nursing program, where she received her RN degree. Before coming to BCHS, she worked as a nurse at Faith Regional Health Services (now Faith Health) in Labor and Delivery/Pediatrics.
Andrea and her husband Cody have three children: Ayden, who is attending Wayne State College and majoring in Business Finance; Cali, who is a seventh grader at the high school; and Benny, who is a fifth grader at BC Elementary.
Mrs. Wintz listed that her favorite part about working at BCHS is the students and staff. She stated, “The teachers, coaches, and mentors here care about the betterment of the students and hold them to high standards so that our students will not only survive but thrive in life. They treat students like they are their own kids, and it shows. I will definitely miss seeing these faces every day, but I am so grateful that my kids attend BCPS and learn from the best.”
When asked what she was most passionate about as a nurse, Mrs. Wintz stated, “I think the most meaningful thing one can do in life is help others. Helping individuals gives great fulfillment to my job. I love building relationships and being there for others.”
In her free time, she enjoys watching her kids do what they enjoy, whether it be activities, athletics, or scholastic events.
At the end of the school year, Mrs. Wintz will be starting her new role as a hospice nurse with St. Croix Hospice. When asked what she is most excited about for this new chapter, she stated, “I think being a part of someone’s life is a gift, and I am excited to care for individuals in times of need.”
When asked to name something she will miss about BCHS, she mentioned that she will miss seeing the students every day. She noted, “Each of them brings something special to the school and brings life to the classrooms and hallways. They are all unique, which is fun to witness.”
By Bella Moore
When the 2025-2026 school year comes to an end, Battle Creek High School will be saying goodbye to school nurse Andrea Wintz after twelve years of service.
Mrs. Wintz is an alum of Battle Creek High School, graduating in 2002. Following graduation, she attended the Northeast Community College nursing program, where she received her RN degree. Before coming to BCHS, she worked as a nurse at Faith Regional Health Services (now Faith Health) in Labor and Delivery/Pediatrics.
Andrea and her husband Cody have three children: Ayden, who is attending Wayne State College and majoring in Business Finance; Cali, who is a seventh grader at the high school; and Benny, who is a fifth grader at BC Elementary.
Mrs. Wintz listed that her favorite part about working at BCHS is the students and staff. She stated, “The teachers, coaches, and mentors here care about the betterment of the students and hold them to high standards so that our students will not only survive but thrive in life. They treat students like they are their own kids, and it shows. I will definitely miss seeing these faces every day, but I am so grateful that my kids attend BCPS and learn from the best.”
When asked what she was most passionate about as a nurse, Mrs. Wintz stated, “I think the most meaningful thing one can do in life is help others. Helping individuals gives great fulfillment to my job. I love building relationships and being there for others.”
In her free time, she enjoys watching her kids do what they enjoy, whether it be activities, athletics, or scholastic events.
At the end of the school year, Mrs. Wintz will be starting her new role as a hospice nurse with St. Croix Hospice. When asked what she is most excited about for this new chapter, she stated, “I think being a part of someone’s life is a gift, and I am excited to care for individuals in times of need.”
When asked to name something she will miss about BCHS, she mentioned that she will miss seeing the students every day. She noted, “Each of them brings something special to the school and brings life to the classrooms and hallways. They are all unique, which is fun to witness.”
Ryan Austin Ponto, son of Nicole and Aaron Wyatt, went to Battle Creek Public Schools for all 14 years of his schooling.
Ryan was active in basketball during all four years, lettering two seasons. He served as a basketball captain his senior year.
Aside from athletics, Ryan was a two-year Trailblazer and two-year member of the pep club. He also was chosen as Student of the Month on one occasion. Ryan was on the A and B honor rolls throughout high school.
When asked to name a favorite teacher at BCHS, Ryan listed Mr. Ryan Heller, stating, “He makes learning fun during class, and he pushed me to be the best I could be during basketball season.” He listed his favorite course as Personal Finance because he will need to know that information for the rest of his life. Ryan’s favorite moment from his time at BCHS was his junior Blaze Day.
Outside of school, Ryan is employed as a meat clerk at HyVee West in Norfolk. He has worked there since May 2024. In his free time, Ryan enjoys playing basketball, listening to music, and hanging out with friends.
After high school, Ryan will attend Northeast Community College for two years before transferring to the University of Nebraska in Lincoln where he will work toward bachelor's degree in accounting.
Ryan was active in basketball during all four years, lettering two seasons. He served as a basketball captain his senior year.
Aside from athletics, Ryan was a two-year Trailblazer and two-year member of the pep club. He also was chosen as Student of the Month on one occasion. Ryan was on the A and B honor rolls throughout high school.
When asked to name a favorite teacher at BCHS, Ryan listed Mr. Ryan Heller, stating, “He makes learning fun during class, and he pushed me to be the best I could be during basketball season.” He listed his favorite course as Personal Finance because he will need to know that information for the rest of his life. Ryan’s favorite moment from his time at BCHS was his junior Blaze Day.
Outside of school, Ryan is employed as a meat clerk at HyVee West in Norfolk. He has worked there since May 2024. In his free time, Ryan enjoys playing basketball, listening to music, and hanging out with friends.
After high school, Ryan will attend Northeast Community College for two years before transferring to the University of Nebraska in Lincoln where he will work toward bachelor's degree in accounting.
Wiley Gray Anderson, son of Brent and Tina Anderson, has attended Battle Creek Public Schools for all 14 years of his education.
Wiley participated in wrestling from seventh through ninth grade and also played golf during his freshman year. When asked to name a favorite teacher, Wiley mentioned Mr. Kobe Lade, noting that he enjoyed spending time in his classroom, especially playing mini basketball. Wiley also shared that shop class was his favorite subject, as he enjoys hands-on work. One of Wiley’s favorite high school memories was playing games in former Battle Creek teacher Mr. Taylor Baumert’s class.
Outside of school, Wiley enjoys fishing, hunting, and spending time with friends. He is currently employed as a meat clerk at Hy-Vee, a position he has held for the past two years. In addition, he participates in work-based learning on Fridays, assisting Johnson Plumbing and Heating.
After graduation, Wiley plans to attend Northeast Community College, where he will study to become a plumber.
Wiley participated in wrestling from seventh through ninth grade and also played golf during his freshman year. When asked to name a favorite teacher, Wiley mentioned Mr. Kobe Lade, noting that he enjoyed spending time in his classroom, especially playing mini basketball. Wiley also shared that shop class was his favorite subject, as he enjoys hands-on work. One of Wiley’s favorite high school memories was playing games in former Battle Creek teacher Mr. Taylor Baumert’s class.
Outside of school, Wiley enjoys fishing, hunting, and spending time with friends. He is currently employed as a meat clerk at Hy-Vee, a position he has held for the past two years. In addition, he participates in work-based learning on Fridays, assisting Johnson Plumbing and Heating.
After graduation, Wiley plans to attend Northeast Community College, where he will study to become a plumber.
April 6th - 10th Weekly Update and Youth Track and Field Practice Schedule...
#CommittedToExcellence!
#SmallConsistentActions!
#CommittedToExcellence!
#SmallConsistentActions!
Due to the forecasted weather, we will be moving our high school track meet from tomorrow to this Wednesday, 04/08.
10:00 am start time for all field events
12:30 start time for running events
Thank you for your understanding
A big thank you to our school librarian, Mrs. Baber, for creating a welcoming space where curiosity grows and learning never stops. Your dedication, kindness, and passion make a difference every day. We appreciate all that you do!
Battle Creek Elementary recently had several students join new 'Word Clubs' during the month of March. Pictured below are students that joined our 100,000 Word Club, our 250, 000 Word Club, our 500,000 Word Club, our 750,000 Word Club, and our 1,000,000 Word Club! Congratulations to all our Superstar Readers that joined new Word Clubs during the month of March!
#CommittedToExcellence!
#SmallConsistentActions!
Don’t forget Dance Team Practice & Tryouts start next week!!
Reach out to Mrs O for any questions
308-383-6546
solsufka@bcpsne.info
Some very special visitors bounced through the high school halls today, sharing spring treats and plenty of smiles! 🐰🥕🐣
Connie Lade Named New School Counselor
By Brynn Bishop
After 25 years of dedicated service as a music educator, Mrs. Connie Lade is stepping into a new role at Battle Creek High School as the school counselor. Lade will be replacing long-time counselor Cathy Thompson, who is retiring at the end of this school year.
A 1989 graduate of Battle Creek High School, Mrs. Lade began her college education at Northeast Community College, earning an Associate of Arts in Music Education. She then attended Wayne State College, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Music Education. She also completed Master’s Degrees in Curriculum and Instruction and School Counseling from WSC.
During her career at Battle Creek, Mrs. Lade inspired many students through instrumental music. One of her favorite classes to teach was Beginning Band, where she found joy in helping the young musicians grow in skill and confidence. Watching her students develop and create beautiful and complex music was one of the most rewarding parts of her career.
Mrs. Lade is passionate about helping students grow, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love for music and learning. As a teacher, she was always committed to creating a safe and inclusive atmosphere where every student felt valued. This is something she will continue to prioritize in her new role.
As she transitions from the band room to the counseling office, Mrs. Lade wants to support students in a new way. While she may be taking a step back from music, her dedication to student success continues.
Outside of school, Mrs. Lade enjoys spending time with her six children and nine grandchildren, making music with her twelve siblings, reading, golfing, and visiting friends.
Battle Creek is grateful for Mrs. Lade’s years of impact in music education and looks forward to the differences she will make as a school counselor.
By Brynn Bishop
After 25 years of dedicated service as a music educator, Mrs. Connie Lade is stepping into a new role at Battle Creek High School as the school counselor. Lade will be replacing long-time counselor Cathy Thompson, who is retiring at the end of this school year.
A 1989 graduate of Battle Creek High School, Mrs. Lade began her college education at Northeast Community College, earning an Associate of Arts in Music Education. She then attended Wayne State College, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Music Education. She also completed Master’s Degrees in Curriculum and Instruction and School Counseling from WSC.
During her career at Battle Creek, Mrs. Lade inspired many students through instrumental music. One of her favorite classes to teach was Beginning Band, where she found joy in helping the young musicians grow in skill and confidence. Watching her students develop and create beautiful and complex music was one of the most rewarding parts of her career.
Mrs. Lade is passionate about helping students grow, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love for music and learning. As a teacher, she was always committed to creating a safe and inclusive atmosphere where every student felt valued. This is something she will continue to prioritize in her new role.
As she transitions from the band room to the counseling office, Mrs. Lade wants to support students in a new way. While she may be taking a step back from music, her dedication to student success continues.
Outside of school, Mrs. Lade enjoys spending time with her six children and nine grandchildren, making music with her twelve siblings, reading, golfing, and visiting friends.
Battle Creek is grateful for Mrs. Lade’s years of impact in music education and looks forward to the differences she will make as a school counselor.
Paraprofessional Appreciation Day!
BCHS to Welcome New Band Instructor
By Brynn Schmidt
Battle Creek High School is excited to welcome Mr. Joseph Sexe as a new member of the teaching staff in 2026-2027. Mr. Sexe grew up in the Okoboji area of northwest Iowa. He has many fond memories of spending summers on the lake and still enjoys going back to visit family and friends.
Mr. Sexe is a graduate of Estherville-Lincoln Central High School. He began his college education at Iowa Lakes Community College, where he earned an associate of arts degree. He then continued his college career at the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in music education.
Mr. Sexe taught for two years in Avon, South Dakota, where he instructed grades 5-12 in band and music appreciation. Music Appreciation remains his favorite class to teach, as he enjoys introducing students to a wide range of musical styles and exploring how past music shapes what we listen to today. He is especially enthusiastic about teaching the music of The Beatles and the evolution of rock and roll.
Coming from a family of music educators, Mr. Sexe developed a love for music at an early age. With both parents and a brother in the field, teaching music felt like a perfect career choice. Today, he is excited to share his passion for music with his students to inspire the next generation of great musicians.
Outside of the classroom, Mr. Sexe enjoys playing guitar, collaborating with other musicians, watching sports (especially his Minnesota pro teams), golfing, and spending time outdoors.
Mr. Sexe is especially looking forward to this next chapter in his life. He will be getting married over the summer, and his fiance is an orchestra teacher at Norfolk Public Schools. He is excited to settle into a new community, build relationships, and make a positive impact on Battle Creek High School.
By Brynn Schmidt
Battle Creek High School is excited to welcome Mr. Joseph Sexe as a new member of the teaching staff in 2026-2027. Mr. Sexe grew up in the Okoboji area of northwest Iowa. He has many fond memories of spending summers on the lake and still enjoys going back to visit family and friends.
Mr. Sexe is a graduate of Estherville-Lincoln Central High School. He began his college education at Iowa Lakes Community College, where he earned an associate of arts degree. He then continued his college career at the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in music education.
Mr. Sexe taught for two years in Avon, South Dakota, where he instructed grades 5-12 in band and music appreciation. Music Appreciation remains his favorite class to teach, as he enjoys introducing students to a wide range of musical styles and exploring how past music shapes what we listen to today. He is especially enthusiastic about teaching the music of The Beatles and the evolution of rock and roll.
Coming from a family of music educators, Mr. Sexe developed a love for music at an early age. With both parents and a brother in the field, teaching music felt like a perfect career choice. Today, he is excited to share his passion for music with his students to inspire the next generation of great musicians.
Outside of the classroom, Mr. Sexe enjoys playing guitar, collaborating with other musicians, watching sports (especially his Minnesota pro teams), golfing, and spending time outdoors.
Mr. Sexe is especially looking forward to this next chapter in his life. He will be getting married over the summer, and his fiance is an orchestra teacher at Norfolk Public Schools. He is excited to settle into a new community, build relationships, and make a positive impact on Battle Creek High School.
Now that the dust has settled, we want to take a moment to recognize the seven individuals who represented Battle Creek at the State Speech Tournament in Kearney last weekend. Although the day may not have gone the way we had hoped, we are still proud of all the work these students put in to reach the state tournament. Special congratulations to Clare Schmidt for breaking into state finals in informative speaking and finishing in fourth place.
Battle Creek FCCLA attended State Leadership Conference this week, and what an incredible experience it was!
We are thrilled to share that we had 11 national qualifiers!
-Miana Sudbeck and Blakely Wells- Chapter in Review Portfolio level 1
-Ashlyn Wolken- Event Management Lvl 3
-Alexa Wemhoff and Harper Frisch- Hospitality, Tourism, and Recreation lvl 1
-Presley Wolf- Leadership Lvl 3
-Taylor Olsen- Leadership Lvl 2
-Sherridan Kirby- Promote and Publicize FCCLA Lvl 3
-Elle Schmidt- Say YES to FCS Lvl 1
-Jaiden Ertzner- Say YES to FCS Lvl 3
-Alaina Rogat- Say YES to FCS Lvl 2
We are so proud of all our competitors for representing Battle Creek with confidence and excellence. Your effort does not go unnoticed, and you continue to raise the bar for what it means to be a Battle Creek FCCLA member.
Next stop, Washington DC!
Earlier today, Battle Creek Elementary held their March Monthly Assembly. Pictured below are the Overall Student of the Month (Carsyn L.), the Class of the Month (Mrs. Rethwisch's Kindergarten Class), our Student of the Month Nominations, and our March Birthdays!
#CommittedToExcellence!
#SmallConsistentActions!
#CommittedToExcellence!
#SmallConsistentActions!
Congratulations to the BC wrestlers who made the Mid State Conference All-Conference Team. 1st teamers were Ryan Hoehne and Ashton Kuchar, while Tyan Thompson, Keaton Kuchar, Hunter Kruse, and Connor Heiderman all made the 2nd team. #BuiltDifferent
Congratulations to our Bravette wrestlers who made the Mid State All-Conference Team! Brynlee Wells, Aceley Hoff, Brinkley Last, Lilly Mefford, and Taylor Ahlman made the 1st Team, with Lacey Kuchar making the 2nd Team! #BuiltDifferent
Isaiah Thomas Bleich, son of Hugo and Cindy Bleich, attended St. John Lutheran School through eighth grade before coming to Battle Creek High School as a freshman. He is an active member of First Christian Church in Norfolk.
During high school, Isaiah participated in football for three seasons, earning Mid-State Conference honorable mention recognition. He also competed in track for three years and played basketball for four years, serving as team captain during his senior year.
When asked to name a favorite teacher, Isaiah listed Mr. Junior Aguilar, noting his ability to make classes both engaging and enjoyable while encouraging open discussion and questions. Isaiah identified Anatomy and Physiology as his favorite course, as it helped solidify his decision to pursue a career in science and health. One of Isaiah’s favorite high school memories was attending his junior Blaze Day at Timberlake Ranch.
Outside of school, Isaiah enjoys weightlifting, staying active, playing guitar, and playing basketball.
Following graduation, Isaiah will attend Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, IA, where he will pursue a degree in kinesiology or sports medicine while playing basketball for the Chargers.
During high school, Isaiah participated in football for three seasons, earning Mid-State Conference honorable mention recognition. He also competed in track for three years and played basketball for four years, serving as team captain during his senior year.
When asked to name a favorite teacher, Isaiah listed Mr. Junior Aguilar, noting his ability to make classes both engaging and enjoyable while encouraging open discussion and questions. Isaiah identified Anatomy and Physiology as his favorite course, as it helped solidify his decision to pursue a career in science and health. One of Isaiah’s favorite high school memories was attending his junior Blaze Day at Timberlake Ranch.
Outside of school, Isaiah enjoys weightlifting, staying active, playing guitar, and playing basketball.
Following graduation, Isaiah will attend Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, IA, where he will pursue a degree in kinesiology or sports medicine while playing basketball for the Chargers.
Britlee Ann Wragge, daughter of Tim and Erin Wragge, attended St. John Lutheran School in Battle Creek through eighth grade before coming to Battle Creek High School as a freshman. She is a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Battle Creek.
Britlee was active in basketball and track and field during all four years of high school. In addition, she played volleyball for three seasons.
Aside from athletics, Britlee was involved in student council, pep club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the National Honor Society. She also served as a Trailblazer for two years. For her efforts in the classroom, Britlee was on the A honor roll throughout high school.
When asked to list a favorite staff member at BCHS, Britlee listed Mrs. Bri O’Brien because she always takes time to check on her students. She added a shout-out to Mrs. Jenni Frey as well, stating, “She is like a mother figure; I know I can go to her with anything.” Britlee mentioned that her favorite class is Relationships with Mrs. O’Brien.
Outside of school, Britlee enjoys running, playing sports, and spending time with friends.
After graduation, she will attend Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska, to pursue a career in elementary education. She was selected for the Career Scholars Program.
Britlee was active in basketball and track and field during all four years of high school. In addition, she played volleyball for three seasons.
Aside from athletics, Britlee was involved in student council, pep club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the National Honor Society. She also served as a Trailblazer for two years. For her efforts in the classroom, Britlee was on the A honor roll throughout high school.
When asked to list a favorite staff member at BCHS, Britlee listed Mrs. Bri O’Brien because she always takes time to check on her students. She added a shout-out to Mrs. Jenni Frey as well, stating, “She is like a mother figure; I know I can go to her with anything.” Britlee mentioned that her favorite class is Relationships with Mrs. O’Brien.
Outside of school, Britlee enjoys running, playing sports, and spending time with friends.
After graduation, she will attend Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska, to pursue a career in elementary education. She was selected for the Career Scholars Program.
