We are 5 WEEKS AWAY from our annual music department mattress fundraiser! 📅
Our music department is looking at taking a trip in the summer of 2028, so help support your students!
Spread the word! 📢📢
Here is the Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Ckjm69Uqt/
Our music department is looking at taking a trip in the summer of 2028, so help support your students!
Spread the word! 📢📢
Here is the Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Ckjm69Uqt/
Congratulations to Clare Schmidt on breaking into finals at state speech in informative.
It's that performance-filled time of the year! 🎶
The high school band and choir Pre-Contest Concert was originally scheduled for Thursday, April 2nd; however, it has been moved to Thursday, April 16th to accommodate for those celebrating Holy Thursday. Mark your calendars! 📅
This concert will also serve as our Music Department Senior Night where we will honor the seniors, their families, and their contributions and support to our music program over the years. 💐
We are excited to see you there! 💛💜 Stay tuned for more updates.
The high school band and choir Pre-Contest Concert was originally scheduled for Thursday, April 2nd; however, it has been moved to Thursday, April 16th to accommodate for those celebrating Holy Thursday. Mark your calendars! 📅
This concert will also serve as our Music Department Senior Night where we will honor the seniors, their families, and their contributions and support to our music program over the years. 💐
We are excited to see you there! 💛💜 Stay tuned for more updates.
Cathy Thompson Retiring
By Grace Herman
When the school year comes to an end, Battle Creek High will say goodbye to guidance counselor Cathy Thompson after 28 years of service to the district and 37 years in education. Thompson grew up in South Sioux City until the age of thirteen when her family moved to Neligh, Nebraska. She graduated from Neligh-Oakdale High School in 1983.
Thompson attended Wayne State College where she earned her bachelor’s degree with endorsements in special education and elementary education. Later, she returned to the school to study toward a Master’s Degree in School Counseling as well as an endorsement in Educational Administration.
Thompson and her husband Rick have two children: Candice, Chief Nursing Officer at Broadstone Memorial Hospital in Superior, Nebraska, and Curtis, who owns his own accounting firm - Ridgeline CPA’s - in Hastings. The couple have five grandchildren.
Before coming to BCHS, Thompson worked at ESU #8 Learning Center at Plattsmouth High School. She stated that her role as school counselor at BCHS has been to support overall student success, and she has greatly enjoyed helping students achieve their academic goals, explore career and college options, face their challenges, embrace a growth mindset, and find their “fit” at Battle Creek High School. When asked to comment on what she is most passionate about with regard to education, Thompson stated, “I love helping students understand that each one of them is unique and that they each have their own gifts. Their future is full of endless possibilities; the challenge is to use those gifts and talents, to push themselves out of their comfort zone, to have courage to fail and the persistence to keep working, and to commit each day to becoming a greater human being.”
In her free time, Thompson enjoys reading, gardening, walking, cooking, Husker sports, and following her grandkids’ activities. Unsure of what the future has in store for her, she is hoping to spend more time with family, follow her grandkids’ activities, volunteer, and travel. She stated that what she looks most forward to in retirement is sleeping in, as she is a “night owl.” She stated that one of the first things she plans to do is move closer to her kids and grandkids.
When asked to name something she will miss about BCHS, Thompson said this: “I will miss our outstanding students and staff. Battle Creek High School is a very special place, and it takes great people to make it that way.”
By Grace Herman
When the school year comes to an end, Battle Creek High will say goodbye to guidance counselor Cathy Thompson after 28 years of service to the district and 37 years in education. Thompson grew up in South Sioux City until the age of thirteen when her family moved to Neligh, Nebraska. She graduated from Neligh-Oakdale High School in 1983.
Thompson attended Wayne State College where she earned her bachelor’s degree with endorsements in special education and elementary education. Later, she returned to the school to study toward a Master’s Degree in School Counseling as well as an endorsement in Educational Administration.
Thompson and her husband Rick have two children: Candice, Chief Nursing Officer at Broadstone Memorial Hospital in Superior, Nebraska, and Curtis, who owns his own accounting firm - Ridgeline CPA’s - in Hastings. The couple have five grandchildren.
Before coming to BCHS, Thompson worked at ESU #8 Learning Center at Plattsmouth High School. She stated that her role as school counselor at BCHS has been to support overall student success, and she has greatly enjoyed helping students achieve their academic goals, explore career and college options, face their challenges, embrace a growth mindset, and find their “fit” at Battle Creek High School. When asked to comment on what she is most passionate about with regard to education, Thompson stated, “I love helping students understand that each one of them is unique and that they each have their own gifts. Their future is full of endless possibilities; the challenge is to use those gifts and talents, to push themselves out of their comfort zone, to have courage to fail and the persistence to keep working, and to commit each day to becoming a greater human being.”
In her free time, Thompson enjoys reading, gardening, walking, cooking, Husker sports, and following her grandkids’ activities. Unsure of what the future has in store for her, she is hoping to spend more time with family, follow her grandkids’ activities, volunteer, and travel. She stated that what she looks most forward to in retirement is sleeping in, as she is a “night owl.” She stated that one of the first things she plans to do is move closer to her kids and grandkids.
When asked to name something she will miss about BCHS, Thompson said this: “I will miss our outstanding students and staff. Battle Creek High School is a very special place, and it takes great people to make it that way.”
The FFA Closing Session, where final results will be announced, will be LIVE STREAMED at 3:00 PM!
Don’t miss it—watch here:
https://neaged.org/
Congratulations to Easton Ogden for being named a finalist in Junior High Ag Literacy!
The Ag Sales team—Brynn Schmidt, Clare Schmidt, Camden Ogden, and Eli Anderson—competed yesterday and represented Battle Creek so well!
A special congratulations to Clare Schmidt for being named a finalist in Ag Sales!
We’re proud of all your hard work and dedication!
Today we want to take a moment to recognize someone who gives so much of himself to our students, often behind the scenes—our incredible athletic trainer, Kurt.
From practices to game days, Kurt is always there to keep our athletes safe, supported, and ready to compete. He doesn’t just help our athletes heal physically—he encourages them, supports them, and reminds them of their strength when they need it most.
Kurt, your dedication, compassion, and commitment to Battle Creek Public Schools do not go unnoticed. You are a vital part of our program and our community, and we are so grateful for all that you do for our kids.
Thank you for being there—every single time. 💜
From practices to game days, Kurt is always there to keep our athletes safe, supported, and ready to compete. He doesn’t just help our athletes heal physically—he encourages them, supports them, and reminds them of their strength when they need it most.
Kurt, your dedication, compassion, and commitment to Battle Creek Public Schools do not go unnoticed. You are a vital part of our program and our community, and we are so grateful for all that you do for our kids.
Thank you for being there—every single time. 💜
A massive shoutout to Clare Schmidt for being named STATE CHAMPION in the Agriscience Fair!!
And congratulations to Cade Fickes and Camden Ogden for earning Runner-Up, an incredible accomplishment!
AND… another big congratulations to Max Cremers and Gus Richardson for advancing to the Individual Welding Finals!
The welding team—Max Cremers, Trevor Hintz, Gus Richardson, and Kanon Warneke—also had an outstanding day. We’re so proud of the effort and skill you all showed!
We are so proud of all of you and your hard work!
Final welding results will be announced tomorrow.
Ashlyn Wolken, Raylin Kurpgeweit, and Clare Schmidt all represented BC FFA in LDEs. Great work, ladies!
A special congratulations to Clare Schmidt for being named a finalist in Extemporaneous Speaking!
Another big congratulations to Lilly Mefford, Marissa Hitz, Brynn Schmidt, Chloe Wattier, and Piper Strom for receiving their FFA State degrees last night. That is the highest honor a member can receive from the state!
We’re excited to share that Cade Fickes and Camden Ogden are finalists at state FFA in their Agriscience Fair division! Clare Schmidt is also a finalist in the Agriscience Fair for her division!
A big congratulations to Eli for earning a gold rating in the Agriscience Fair. What an incredible accomplishment!
Stay tuned… full results will be announced later today!
This is a reminder that our annual elementary spring concert is still on for tomorrow night! 🎶
NOTE: Student concert attire has been updated to include a Husker shirt and jeans if desired to honor the success of our state team. Dress clothes will still be accepted per usual.
The students have worked very hard, and it's going to be an incredible concert. We are ecstatic to see you there! 💜💛❤️🤍
Battle Creek senior is exploring a future in education through our Work-Based Learning program. She’s gaining valuable experience and learning from one of the best in the business.
Thank you to Mr. Heng for investing your time and making a difference!
#FutureEducatorCoach
Reminder: 3 peat orders are due 3/27 at 10am!
https://bc3peat2026.itemorder.com/shop/home/
https://bc3peat2026.itemorder.com/shop/home/
Mariska Michelle Makelin, daughter of Lucas and Jolynn Makelin and Jessica Gullicksen and Justin Mandl, attended Stanton Public Schools for kindergarten through sixth grade before coming to Battle Creek High School, where she has remained ever since.
Mariska participated in one-act play production for three years, speech for one season, and she was a Trailblazer for two years. Excelling in play production, Mariska received multiple acting awards.
Mariska mentioned that her fondest memory from her time at BCHS was the junior class Blaze Day at Timberlake Ranch. She stated that everyone got along well and had a fun time. When asked to name a favorite instructor at the school, Mariska listed Mrs. Stephanie Nelson, stating, “Her classroom was just easy to be in; she always made class feel comfortable.” She added, “Mrs. Nelson cares about her students, not just about their academics.” Mariska named her favorite class asher college literature course with Mrs. Leigha Kern.
Outside of school, Mariska enjoys working, going on walks, and hanging out with her dog, friends, and boyfriend. She also spends her time working at St. Joseph Rehabilitation and Care Center, a job she has held for about two years.
After graduation, Mariska plans to work for the Norfolk Police Department as a Community Service Officer while taking classes at Northeast Community College. She will study criminal justice. Once she is 21 years old, she will go to the police academy in Grand Island.
Mariska participated in one-act play production for three years, speech for one season, and she was a Trailblazer for two years. Excelling in play production, Mariska received multiple acting awards.
Mariska mentioned that her fondest memory from her time at BCHS was the junior class Blaze Day at Timberlake Ranch. She stated that everyone got along well and had a fun time. When asked to name a favorite instructor at the school, Mariska listed Mrs. Stephanie Nelson, stating, “Her classroom was just easy to be in; she always made class feel comfortable.” She added, “Mrs. Nelson cares about her students, not just about their academics.” Mariska named her favorite class asher college literature course with Mrs. Leigha Kern.
Outside of school, Mariska enjoys working, going on walks, and hanging out with her dog, friends, and boyfriend. She also spends her time working at St. Joseph Rehabilitation and Care Center, a job she has held for about two years.
After graduation, Mariska plans to work for the Norfolk Police Department as a Community Service Officer while taking classes at Northeast Community College. She will study criminal justice. Once she is 21 years old, she will go to the police academy in Grand Island.
Easton James Hardy, son of Marshall and Stacy Hardy, attended Norfolk Public Schools before coming to Battle Creek High School for his junior year. Easton is a member of Lifepoint Church in Norfolk.
Easton participated in track and field during all four years of high school, and he played football for three seasons: two in Norfolk and one in Battle Creek. Additionally, he played summer baseball with the Braves before his junior year of high school.
Aside from athletics, Easton earned Character Student of the Month honors on one occasion. When asked to name a favorite staff member at the school, Easton listed Mr. Dylan Hawk, stating, “He is always positive, and we learn while having fun.” Easton listed History of Nebraska/History of Sports as his favorite class during the day. He mentioned that because the class is small, he has been able to get closer to some students he would not have interacted with otherwise.
Outside of school, Easton is employed at Metcalf Property Services, where he has held a crew manager position for two years. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and playing guitar.
After graduation, Easton will attend South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota. He will study architecture.
Easton participated in track and field during all four years of high school, and he played football for three seasons: two in Norfolk and one in Battle Creek. Additionally, he played summer baseball with the Braves before his junior year of high school.
Aside from athletics, Easton earned Character Student of the Month honors on one occasion. When asked to name a favorite staff member at the school, Easton listed Mr. Dylan Hawk, stating, “He is always positive, and we learn while having fun.” Easton listed History of Nebraska/History of Sports as his favorite class during the day. He mentioned that because the class is small, he has been able to get closer to some students he would not have interacted with otherwise.
Outside of school, Easton is employed at Metcalf Property Services, where he has held a crew manager position for two years. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and playing guitar.
After graduation, Easton will attend South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota. He will study architecture.
With tomorrow (March 25th) being National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day, our students and staff at Battle Creek Elementary will be wearing green to raise awareness for Cerebral Palsy. Please join our students and staff wearing green tomorrow!
#CommittedToExcellence!
#SmallConsistentActions!
#CommittedToExcellence!
#SmallConsistentActions!
🥈Congratulations to the 2026 Mid-State Conference 9-10th Grade Division Runners-Up, and 4th-place finishers in the 11-12th grade division. These kids work hard on their academic endeavors and it showed today! 💜💛
Lilly Lorraine Mefford, daughter of Landon and Lisa Mefford, attended Grant Elementary School and Norfolk Middle and Junior High Schools before coming to Battle Creek High School in eighth grade. She is a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Norfolk.
Lilly participated in volleyball for one season, and she was a four-year member of the track and wrestling teams. In wrestling, Lilly served as team captain her senior year and was a four-time letter winner. She was a 3-time state qualifier for her efforts on the mats, lacing fourth as a junior and fifth as a senior. Lilly was named the Most Improved Athlete at the school in 2025.
Aside from athletics, Lilly was a two-year Trailblazer and one-year FCA member. She participated in FFA for four years and qualified for state competition all four years. She will be earning her state degree this year in Lincoln. For her efforts in the classroom, she has been on the A and B honor rolls throughout high school.
When asked to name a favorite teacher at the school, Lilly listed Mrs. Stephanie Nelson, stating, “She is easy to relate to, and class is always fun.” Lilly also mentioned Mr. and Mrs. O’Brien as teachers she enjoyed. Lilly listed her favorite class as Mr. Junior Anguilar’s anatomy class, stating, “He made the class enjoyable.” When asked to name a fondest memory from high school, Lilly said doing the slip and slide at the senior Blaze Day this past fall was something she will always remember.
Outside of school, Lilly held jobs at Renner’s Cleaning Service and St. Joseph's Nursing Home. She currently works at St. Joseph’s as a CNA. In her free time, Lilly enjoys traveling, working, and shopping.
After high school, Lilly will attend Southeast Community College in Lincoln, where she will pursue a degree in nursing.
Lilly participated in volleyball for one season, and she was a four-year member of the track and wrestling teams. In wrestling, Lilly served as team captain her senior year and was a four-time letter winner. She was a 3-time state qualifier for her efforts on the mats, lacing fourth as a junior and fifth as a senior. Lilly was named the Most Improved Athlete at the school in 2025.
Aside from athletics, Lilly was a two-year Trailblazer and one-year FCA member. She participated in FFA for four years and qualified for state competition all four years. She will be earning her state degree this year in Lincoln. For her efforts in the classroom, she has been on the A and B honor rolls throughout high school.
When asked to name a favorite teacher at the school, Lilly listed Mrs. Stephanie Nelson, stating, “She is easy to relate to, and class is always fun.” Lilly also mentioned Mr. and Mrs. O’Brien as teachers she enjoyed. Lilly listed her favorite class as Mr. Junior Anguilar’s anatomy class, stating, “He made the class enjoyable.” When asked to name a fondest memory from high school, Lilly said doing the slip and slide at the senior Blaze Day this past fall was something she will always remember.
Outside of school, Lilly held jobs at Renner’s Cleaning Service and St. Joseph's Nursing Home. She currently works at St. Joseph’s as a CNA. In her free time, Lilly enjoys traveling, working, and shopping.
After high school, Lilly will attend Southeast Community College in Lincoln, where she will pursue a degree in nursing.
Isaac Matthew Rudloff, son of Matt and Stephanie Rudloff, attended school in Newman Grove from preschool through 4th grade before coming to Battle Creek where he has remained ever since. Isaac is an active member of Fellowship Bible Church in Newman Grove.
Isaac participated in basketball and track during all four years of high school, and he played football for three seasons. As a senior, Isaac chose to give cross country a try. He served as team captain last fall in the sport. In basketball, Isaac served as a team captain was honorably mentioned by the Omaha World Herald and the Lincoln Journal Star for his efforts on the court. In addition, he was named an Elite Eight player. This past winter, Isaac was named to the All Conference first team. He has received the Three Sport Athlete Award on three occasions at the athletic banquet, and he claimed a scholar athlete award as a freshman, sophomore, and junior. When asked to name a favorite memory from his time at the school, Isaac listed his sophomore year of basketball when the team made it to the district final.
When asked to name a favorite subject in school, Isaac listed math and science, stating, “Both subjects were enjoyable to learn, and the teachers were amazing.” Isaac named his favorite teachers as Mr. Ryan Heller and Mr. Junior Aguilar. Isaac said, “They both made learning fun and were always in a good mood. They talk to you about other things and are fun to be around.”
Outside of athletics, Isaac serves the school as a Trailblazer. He was an honor roll student throughout high school and has received Student of the Month and Character Student of the Month honors on multiple occasions. In band, Isaac was chosen for Class C All State Honor Band during his freshman and sophomore years and Class B All State Honor Band as a senior. Isaac was in band for three years.
Outside of school, Isaac enjoys reading, hanging out with friends and family, and camping. Isaac works at the Battle Creek city pool as a lifeguard, a job he has held for three summers.
After graduation, Isaac will attend Northeast Community College to complete the pre-nursing program. He plans to study at the University of Nebraska Medical Center to earn his Bachelor’s in Nursing before studying nurse anesthetics at Bryan College for Health Sciences in Lincoln.
Isaac participated in basketball and track during all four years of high school, and he played football for three seasons. As a senior, Isaac chose to give cross country a try. He served as team captain last fall in the sport. In basketball, Isaac served as a team captain was honorably mentioned by the Omaha World Herald and the Lincoln Journal Star for his efforts on the court. In addition, he was named an Elite Eight player. This past winter, Isaac was named to the All Conference first team. He has received the Three Sport Athlete Award on three occasions at the athletic banquet, and he claimed a scholar athlete award as a freshman, sophomore, and junior. When asked to name a favorite memory from his time at the school, Isaac listed his sophomore year of basketball when the team made it to the district final.
When asked to name a favorite subject in school, Isaac listed math and science, stating, “Both subjects were enjoyable to learn, and the teachers were amazing.” Isaac named his favorite teachers as Mr. Ryan Heller and Mr. Junior Aguilar. Isaac said, “They both made learning fun and were always in a good mood. They talk to you about other things and are fun to be around.”
Outside of athletics, Isaac serves the school as a Trailblazer. He was an honor roll student throughout high school and has received Student of the Month and Character Student of the Month honors on multiple occasions. In band, Isaac was chosen for Class C All State Honor Band during his freshman and sophomore years and Class B All State Honor Band as a senior. Isaac was in band for three years.
Outside of school, Isaac enjoys reading, hanging out with friends and family, and camping. Isaac works at the Battle Creek city pool as a lifeguard, a job he has held for three summers.
After graduation, Isaac will attend Northeast Community College to complete the pre-nursing program. He plans to study at the University of Nebraska Medical Center to earn his Bachelor’s in Nursing before studying nurse anesthetics at Bryan College for Health Sciences in Lincoln.
