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A community engagement initiative of Central CHSD 71.

NEW

LATEST ISSUE

Winter | 2025

Balancing Sports, Business, and Advocacy at Central

“Whether you’re a starter, a role player, or a student assistant flying the practice drone, you have value. It’s about what you can do, not what you can’t.”

“Art is about more than creating—it’s about finding yourself,” she says. “And at Central, we’ve created a space where students can do just that.”

“The opportunities I had at Central—whether starting a new club or excelling in academic challenges—were instrumental in preparing me for the challenges ahead.”

“Clinton County is a special place. It’s a community that takes pride in its people and works hard to help everyone succeed. I’m proud to carry that spirit with me wherever I go.”

“This is 100% a ‘get to’ job,” she says. “I get to help students find their path, build confidence, and discover what they’re capable of. That’s a privilege I don’t take lightly.”

“I always tell my students: You will find your niche in life. My job is to help you get there.”

“Seeing students find their purpose and their people through agriculture is second to none. It’s not unlike growing a crop—you plant the seeds, nurture them, and watch them flourish.”

“We’re not just writing checks—we’re building partnerships. That’s what makes PAWS so effective.”

“The success of this program isn’t just about trophies. It’s about the lives we’ve touched and the lessons we’ve shared.”

“I’d rather attend a school with strong scholarship opportunities than take on significant debt for a slightly better ranking.”

“The teachers here really care. They push us to work hard and want the best for us. You can feel their passion for teaching.”

“I never planned to be a shop teacher or a golf coach, but everything I’ve done has prepared me for this. It’s about building something—whether it’s a project, a team, or a life—and doing it the right way.”

“It’s about enhancing student opportunity, promoting Central High School, and facilitating community involvement.”

“Music has the power to change lives. And at Central, I get to see that power in action every day.”

The Stories of Us.

Hover to preview, click to read.
Anthony Huegen: Master of Many Paths
Central Football: It’s About the Love.
Crafting a Creative Legacy: Christa Wessel’s Transformative Art Room at Central
Dream Big, Work Hard: Sophia Kennett’s Journey from Clinton County to Stanford University
From the Fields to the Future: Lauren Wolter’s Passionate Pursuit of Excellence
Gina Benhoff’s STEP Program is Transforming Lives at Central
Guiding the Future: Trisha Lohman’s Role in Shaping Central Students’ Journeys
Harley Painter is Cultivating Growth: The Transformative Ag Program at Central
Harnessing Community Strength: PAWS
Julianne Jacob’s Impact as Educator and Cheer Coach
More Than a Number: Grant Creek’s Journey of Excellence at Central
Rising to the Challenge: Jensen Tebbe’s Bountiful Buffet of Opportunity
Shaping Lives with Precision: Steve Ellis and His Multifaceted Legacy at Central
The Backbone of a Community—The Twin Pillars of CSC and PAWS
Tuning Hearts and Minds: Brodie Ordaz and the Musical Revival at Central
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