Baraboo School District Outstanding Educator Recognized with Distinguished Elementary Teacher Award

The School District of Baraboo proudly announces Mrs. Charlee Sarnow, Special Education Teacher at Gordon L. Willson Elementary, as the recipient of this year's prestigious Distinguished Elementary Teacher Award. Recognizing her exemplary commitment to education, Mrs. Sarnow’s passion for teaching and innovative methods have left an indelible mark on her students' lives.

With nearly two decades of experience, Mrs. Sarnow has created an engaging and inclusive learning environment that nurtures each student's unique abilities and talents. Her dedication to individualized instruction ensures that every child reaches their full potential, fostering a love for learning that extends far beyond the classroom walls.

Under Mrs. Sarnow’s guidance, her students have achieved remarkable academic success while developing essential life skills, such as critical thinking and problem-solving. Miss Sandra Conley, a Fifth-Grade Teacher at GLW, said, “Mrs. Sarnow works tirelessly to develop lessons which meet the needs of students while guiding each student to their fullest potential.” 

In addition to her exceptional teaching skills, Mrs. Sarnow is known for her genuine care and support for her colleague's well-being. As a mentor she fosters a nurturing and inclusive learning community, promoting empathy, respect, and understanding. 

The Distinguished Elementary Teacher Award is a testament to Mrs. Sarnow’s unwavering dedication to education and her enduring impact on her students' lives. She exemplifies the ideals of an exceptional educator and serves as an inspiration to her colleagues and the entire Baraboo community. 

Mrs. Sarnow is the 17th recipient of the Distinguished Elementary Teacher Award. The award comes with a stipend for professional development or educational enrichment. 

The Distinguished Elementary Teacher Award was established by Andy Hauge, a Baraboo native, a member of the Baraboo High School Class of 1956, and a retired elementary school teacher who recognized the extraordinary value of the job that elementary teachers do. The award is given in recognition of outstanding teaching skills, leadership, and dedication to the young people of the Baraboo community. Funds are managed by the Community Foundation of South Central Wisconsin.

Outstanding Secondary Teacher Receives Excellence in Education Award

The School District of Baraboo is delighted to announce Ms. Rita Ehlert, English Language Arts Teacher at Jack Young Middle School, as the recipient of this year's highly esteemed Excellence in Education Award for Secondary Teacher of the Year. Her unwavering commitment to her students' academic growth and holistic development sets her apart as an exceptional educator.

Ms. Ehlert, a beloved member of the faculty at JYMS, has consistently gone above and beyond to engage and inspire her students. With her dynamic teaching methods, she brings the subject matter to life, fostering a deep understanding and love for learning among her students. “Her creativity is on display in her teaching, but also on her walls--a classroom that always turns heads for its appeal and focus on learning,” said Ms. Jane McMahon, Director of Secondary Teaching and Learning. 

Beyond the classroom, Ms. Ehlert actively contributes to the school community as the lead tutor for an after-school program that provides academic support services for students who identify as Native American. Her dedication to their success extends beyond the academic realm, ensuring that his students develop essential life skills, including teamwork, leadership, and critical thinking.

The Excellence in Education Award acknowledges Ms. Ehlert’s tireless efforts and her significant impact on the lives of her students. Her passion for education and her ability to inspire young minds make her an exemplary role model for her peers and an asset to the educational community.

Ms. Ehlert is the 17th recipient to be honored as the secondary school teacher of the year. The award comes with a stipend for professional development or educational enrichment to enhance the recipient’s knowledge, instructional skills, and classroom effectiveness.

The Excellence in Education Award was established in 2006 by the Baraboo High School Class of 1956, on the occasion of their 50th reunion, and in honor of the dedicated educators who taught, guided, and inspired them during their years together at BHS. The fund is managed by the Community Foundation of South Central Wisconsin on behalf of the BHS Class of 1956. The Baraboo School District oversees the nomination and annual selection of the recipient.

Baraboo High School Celebrates Graduation with Pride and Optimism

On a beautiful Friday evening, the Class of 2023 bid farewell to their high school years and embraced the promising future that awaits them. The Baraboo High School graduation ceremony was a joyous occasion filled with pride, excitement, and a touch of nostalgia.

Amidst a sea of blue caps and gowns, Mr. Glenn Bildsten delivered his final inspiring commencement address as principal of BHS. Mr. Bildsten urged the graduates to have gratitude for all who have supported them through their education. “Your graduation is a matter of immense happiness for all of us and it’s an especially proud and emotional time for me as I preside over my last time as principal of Baraboo High School,” he exclaimed. “I am so privileged for having had the opportunity to watch all of you grow and mature… Enjoy the achievement but remember it’s only just the beginning.”  

Class of 2023 Speaker Leisha Marie Hallis’ speech “The Wonders of the Unknown” resonated deeply with her peers. "The next few years are a fresh start for everyone. Now, it is your turn to decide who you want to be, what you want to do, and how you want to convey yourself. Now, we finally have the freedom to explore the world and ourselves to figure out who we are, and what matter to us" she declared with confidence.

Class of 2023 President Julia Xie Tse reflected on their high school journey. Before presenting the class gift to Principal Bildsen, she shared, "Tonight is the culmination of the hard work, dedication, and ambitions…On behalf of the Class of 2023, I would like to thank all of the faculty of Baraboo High School who have supported us this far…I am excited to announce that our senior class gift will be the construction of a workspace located by the Math Department…We hope that our new study space will allow students to better collaborate on group projects and complete work without disruptions.” 

The atmosphere was filled with a mix of emotions as graduates tossed their caps into the air, symbolizing the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. As the Class of 2023 exited the ceremony, the future looked bright and full of endless possibilities.

Congratulations to the Baraboo High School graduates of 2023!

ABE Field Day Fun

Al Behrman Elementary School was abuzz Tuesday, June 6th for the much-awaited End of Year Field Day!! ABE students and staff had a day of thrilling games, friendly competition, and tons of fun. They celebrate the end of the school year with a bang!

Representative Considine Visits North Freedom Elementary School

On Friday, May 26th, the North Freedom fourth graders began their day with a visit from Representative Dave Considine as a follow-up to their field trip visit to the Capitol. He talked about the best parts of his job and answered many questions that the fourth graders had regarding Wisconsin government, the Capitol building itself, and what a typical day is like in the life of an elected official. We are so appreciative that Representative Considine took time out of his busy schedule to pay North Freedom a visit!

T-bird Band Performs for GLW Students

On Thursday, May 25th the BHS T-Bird Marching Band put on a special performance for the students of Gordon L. Willson Elementary. The fantastic performance was filled with music and school spirit!

BELC 4K Celebrations

Celebrating our little graduates! Baraboo Early Learning Cooperative (BELC) held end-of-the-year events to celebrate the conclusion of 4K, It was a milestone celebration for our 4K students at BELC. The students have grown, learned, and accomplished so much. Congratulations, little graduates!

East Bowling Field Trip

Fun Alert! East Elementary wrapped up the school year with a fantastic bowling field trip! Strikes, laughter, and memories were had to celebrate a successful school year!

6th Grade Orientation!

Get Ready, 5th graders! 

It’s almost time for 6th Grade Orientation!

The staff and students of Jack Young Middle School

invite you

to our 13th annual

Sixth Grade Orientation with our 8th-grade WEB Leaders

8:00 AM -11:30 AM

Thursday, August 17, 2023

JYMS Main Gymnasium/Commons Area

The purpose of this orientation is to make the transition from elementary school to middle school a positive one. Eighth graders will be serving as WEB leaders and mentors to the sixth graders. Large and small group activities are designed to address students’ needs and concerns in an enjoyable manner.

Wear comfortable clothes and don’t bring all your “stuff”...travel light!

If you have any questions, please contact a WEB Coordinator:

 Teresa Kamps tkamps@barabooschools.net OR

Joel Anich at janich@barabooschools.net

*Please RSVP for this event on this form: 6th Grade Orientation

This form is to get an idea for attendance and to organize any transportation needs. If you are unable to complete the form, your student can still attend the event.