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.
We are so proud to announce the students representing Battle Creek High School at Cornhusker Boys & Girls State in Lincoln this summer!✨
Join us in congratulating:
⭐ Makenna Hughes – Girls State Delegate
⭐ Sherridan Kirby – Girls State Alternate
⭐ Cody Renner – Boys State Delegate
These student leaders are recognized for their leadership, character, and civic engagement. They will participate in an immersive week-long experience where they will have the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of the workings of our government, assume leadership roles, and realize that their actions can make a difference in their community. A big thank you to the Battle Creek American Legion Post and Auxiliary for sponsoring these students.
The JH Speech season is almost here! Don't miss your opportunity to get out and support the next generation of Braves and Bravettes! All meets are free to attend and open to the public!
Last week our FFA chapter traveled to Lincoln to compete at state FFA convention. We’d like to send a big congratulations to the following:
Brynn Schmidt- State degree
Lilly Mefford -State degree
Marissa Hitz- State degree
Chloe Wattier- State degree
Piper Strom - State degree
Max Cremers - welding individual 4th place
Gus Richardson- welding individual 10th place.
Ag Issues - top 10 team
Ag Sales -top 10 team
Easton Ogden - Ag Literacy 3rd place Cade Fickes and Camden Ogden- Agriscience Fair Runner-up
Eli Anderson- Agriscience Fair 4th place
Clare Schmidt -6th In Extemp Speaking
Clare Schmidt- 9th in Ag Sales individual
Clare Schmidt- Stare Champion in Agriscience Fair, qualifying her for national FFA convention this October!
We’re proud of all the members hard work and success for this year!
Live streaming for track events will be streamed on:
https://www.youtube.com/@ScotusCentralCatholicMedia
Field events will not be streamed.
https://www.youtube.com/@ScotusCentralCatholicMedia
Field events will not be streamed.
Boys Golf Results @ ITCC
Thompson 84-7th
Lindgren 84-8th
Weinandt 91
Thramer 92
Kuchar 92
Team 351 Runner-up
JV Scores:
Richardson 97
Wolf 100
Sheppard 102
Kilday 104
Mrs. Nelson had quite the day with these 9 high school Art students!
Art Show Reception at Blue Cat Gallery in Wayne. Asher, Rachel and Aislynn's artworks received honors.
Darrell Edward Weed, Jr., son of Kelly and Darrell Weed, Sr., attended Battle Creek Public Schools for all fourteen years of his education.
Darrell was active in one act play production, speech, and quiz bowl during all four years of high school, and he was a cheerleader as a junior. When asked to name a favorite staff member at BCHS, Darrell listed Mr. Jason Schmidt because his class is structured, and he has a good humor.
Outside of school, Darrell enjoys participating in Boy Scouts, fishing, and pin shooting.
After graduation, Darrell plans to attend college but is undecided at this time.
Darrell was active in one act play production, speech, and quiz bowl during all four years of high school, and he was a cheerleader as a junior. When asked to name a favorite staff member at BCHS, Darrell listed Mr. Jason Schmidt because his class is structured, and he has a good humor.
Outside of school, Darrell enjoys participating in Boy Scouts, fishing, and pin shooting.
After graduation, Darrell plans to attend college but is undecided at this time.
Piper Kay Strom, daughter of Waylon and Michaela Stom, attended Battle Creek Public Schools for the entirety of her education. She is an active member of United Methodist Church.
While at BCHS, Piper participated in volleyball and basketball during all four years of high school. She also was a member of track and field for two seasons. In volleyball, she qualified for the state volleyball tournament in 2024, and she was an all-state volleyball honorable mention honoree for the 2025 season. She served as team captain in both volleyball and basketball her senior year.
Aside from athletics, Piper was a member of Trailblazers for two years and participated in FFA for five years, qualifying for the state convention five years in a row. For her dedication to the chapter, Piper was selected to serve as president for the 2025-2026 school year. Piper was also selected as Student of the Month on multiple occasions, and she was a homecoming candidate in the fall.
When asked to name a favorite instructor at the school, Piper listed Mr. Billy O’Brien because she has always enjoyed having the opportunity to participate in FFA and she has enjoyed his classroom activities as well. She stated that Mr. O’Brien greatly improved her leadership skills this year. Piper stated that her favorite class was math. She is good with numbers and really enjoys solving problems. Piper’s favorite memory from her time at BCHS is when the Bravettes made it to the state volleyball tournament her junior year. Piper said, “I loved the environment and most of all, [having the opportunity to play] in those games there.”
Outside of school, Piper enjoys making memories with friends and family. Her family enjoys watching sports and going to the movies. This year, Piper was employed at Weiland Doors where she did a human resource internship for her work-based learning on Fridays.
After high school, Piper plans to attend Northeast Community College for her associate’s degree before transferring to the University of South Dakota to pursue a career in business administration.
While at BCHS, Piper participated in volleyball and basketball during all four years of high school. She also was a member of track and field for two seasons. In volleyball, she qualified for the state volleyball tournament in 2024, and she was an all-state volleyball honorable mention honoree for the 2025 season. She served as team captain in both volleyball and basketball her senior year.
Aside from athletics, Piper was a member of Trailblazers for two years and participated in FFA for five years, qualifying for the state convention five years in a row. For her dedication to the chapter, Piper was selected to serve as president for the 2025-2026 school year. Piper was also selected as Student of the Month on multiple occasions, and she was a homecoming candidate in the fall.
When asked to name a favorite instructor at the school, Piper listed Mr. Billy O’Brien because she has always enjoyed having the opportunity to participate in FFA and she has enjoyed his classroom activities as well. She stated that Mr. O’Brien greatly improved her leadership skills this year. Piper stated that her favorite class was math. She is good with numbers and really enjoys solving problems. Piper’s favorite memory from her time at BCHS is when the Bravettes made it to the state volleyball tournament her junior year. Piper said, “I loved the environment and most of all, [having the opportunity to play] in those games there.”
Outside of school, Piper enjoys making memories with friends and family. Her family enjoys watching sports and going to the movies. This year, Piper was employed at Weiland Doors where she did a human resource internship for her work-based learning on Fridays.
After high school, Piper plans to attend Northeast Community College for her associate’s degree before transferring to the University of South Dakota to pursue a career in business administration.
The 2026 Junior High Track schedule is here.
Mark your calendars and come watch our Braves and Bravettes compete this spring.
Mark your calendars and come watch our Braves and Bravettes compete this spring.
Support Our Music Department’s Mattress Fundraiser! 🛌
📅 Event Date: Saturday, May 2nd
🕙Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Battle Creek High School Commons
Looking for a better night’s sleep? Now’s the perfect time!
🎶 Our Music Department is
hosting a Mattress Fundraiser Sale featuring brand-new, name-brand
mattresses at great prices – and every purchase supports our students!
🔝 Top Brands: Purple, Helix, Therapedic, Tranquility
💤 Comfort Options: Soft, Medium, Firm
Types Available: Memory Foam, Latex, Pillow Tops, Hybrids, Adjustable Bases &
More
💵 Payment: All forms accepted + Financing available (for approved applicants)
📦 Delivery: Direct to your home in 3–5 weeks
📢 Spread the word to family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and church members —everyone deserves a great night's sleep while supporting a great cause.
🎯 Our Goal: Sell 25+ mattresses to benefit our Music Department and students!
Let’s make this our best fundraiser yet. Thank you for your support! 💛💜
📅 Event Date: Saturday, May 2nd
🕙Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Battle Creek High School Commons
Looking for a better night’s sleep? Now’s the perfect time!
🎶 Our Music Department is
hosting a Mattress Fundraiser Sale featuring brand-new, name-brand
mattresses at great prices – and every purchase supports our students!
🔝 Top Brands: Purple, Helix, Therapedic, Tranquility
💤 Comfort Options: Soft, Medium, Firm
Types Available: Memory Foam, Latex, Pillow Tops, Hybrids, Adjustable Bases &
More
💵 Payment: All forms accepted + Financing available (for approved applicants)
📦 Delivery: Direct to your home in 3–5 weeks
📢 Spread the word to family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and church members —everyone deserves a great night's sleep while supporting a great cause.
🎯 Our Goal: Sell 25+ mattresses to benefit our Music Department and students!
Let’s make this our best fundraiser yet. Thank you for your support! 💛💜
Our 29 state qualifiers are ready to represent Battle Creek Public Schools among the other 1100 competitors at the FCCLA State Leadership conference in Lincoln. Wish these ladies good luck!
