News

InspireWI is a digital platform WLHS offers to students for career or work-based learning experiences. Click here to learn more about how students can utilize InspireWI and access the state’s broad network of resources to be career ready. Please note at this time WLHS students only have access the virtual library. Please click here to learn how to register.

WCTC will be hosting high school students to help prepare them to take the ACT college entrance exam. Students will improve study skills through increased reading and memory skills, listening, note taking techniques, vocabulary growth and other test taking skills. Students will learn strategies and review aspects of the ACT including math, reading, writing, science reasoning, and grammar. Please click here to learn more and apply. 

A reminder that every student has access to ACT, SAT, and Financial Literacy Support through Method Learning in their Xello accounts at all times free of cost!

WLHS partners with many colleges or universities throughout the area or region. Providing student's many dual credit opportunities allows a tailored fit for every Academic and Career Plan. The variety of institutions and programs available to our students is strategic providing access to the right courses and experiences that align with our Career Pathways. This month we are highlighting Milwaukee Area Technical College offerings through WLHS. Please click here to learn more about the Start College Now program with MATC. 

Will take place in the atrium and upper lobby at Wisco. Individuals from local companies will be here to meet with students and help them learn and explore potential career pathways. Grades 6-12 are invited to attend and meet with WLHS staff in Student Services and our Trade and Technology Department.

This event is a great way for students to build up their ACP by supporting career pathways and career-based learning experiences. Please click here to see all of the WLHS ACP offerings.

The University of Wisconsin has shared with schools throughout the state helpful information for families regarding FAFSA now that the application has opened. Please view the information below for assistance!

The 2025–26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is now available to submit at fafsa.gov. We encourage every eligible student to file the FAFSA® every year they are a student and as early as possible. Even if students believe that they will not qualify for federal financial aid, it's still important to submit one, as many scholarships and grants still require a FAFSA® for consideration. 

The Viking-2-Viking program invites WLHS alumni to talk about their careers, insights, and stories with current Wisco students. The November 2024 topic focused on careers in business. Thank you to the event speakers for sharing their insights and wisdom with our students:

• Mark Greschner ('04) - VP, Category Planning Manager - Men's & Kid's at Kohl's Corporate
• Katie Lunow ('18) - Commercial Lines Underwriter at Acuity Insurance

For over 100 years, Carnegie Mellon has offered students unique and hands-on educational programs from the fine arts to technology and everything in between. Through Carnegie Mellon's Pre-College Programs, rising juniors and seniors in high school have the opportunity to experience a world-class education on a beautiful, vibrant college campus. These programs prepare students for their upcoming college experience, help them narrow their career focus, and build critical knowledge and skills. Please click the link above to learn more and apply. 

One of the key components of Academic and Career Plans (ACP) is providing students access to courses that prepare them for both colleges and careers. This year we are excited to share that WLHS is adding a number of college-prep and career and technical education courses in numerous departments that will support and enhance a student's ACP. Students that signed up for the career pathway informational meetings in December were introduced to the new courses to be added in 2025-26.

In September, Juniors had their first ACP lesson of the year on potential colleges of interest. Please click here to view notes from the lesson.

The next Junior meetings will take place on November 21, 22, or 25 during study hall. This lesson will focus on career demand. Please click here for an overview of what students can expect at these lessons.

College Goal Wisconsin provides free information and assistance to families completing the FAFSA. College Goal Wisconsin is offering both in-person and virtual FAFSA Completion Events starting in January 2025.
 
To register for a FAFSA Completion Event or to request additional information, please refer to collegegoalwi.org.

For students who are interested in attending a UW university and are unsure of what they want to major in, Go Wisconsin has a great new resource to assist in exploration called MyMajors!

Students are encouraged to complete a free 15-minute MyMajors assessment. They will receive a customized list of majors at UW universities that align with their aptitudes, interests, and personality. Students can also learn more about these majors as well as explore possible career pathways.

Join WRTP | BIG STEP in celebrating National Apprenticeship Week, and jumpstart your career into the skilled trades! Listen to a panel discussion of apprentices sharing their experiences throughout all stages of their apprenticeship journey. Meet and network with area employers, explore the union trades, and hear from those who have traveled the fulfilling pathway to apprenticeship! Whether you're just learning about apprenticeship, or looking to launch a new career, this event is for you! Please click here to learn more and attend. 

Waukesha County Technical College offers Dual Enrollment Academies for the pathways below to support student ACP's and WLHS Career Pathways. Please click here to learn more. 


WCTC will be running open houses in the coming months. Please click here to register and attend!

Waukesha County Technical College is offering an open house on November 14 from 3-7 PM. Please click here to learn more about the event open to the public. Students and parents can also click here to learn about capstone experiences available during the years at WLHS that we partner with WCTC to enhance Academic and Career Planning.

WLHS is among many partner schools in the All-In Milwaukee program. AIM supports high school seniors through college by helping them complete a degree, graduate with less than $16,000 of student loan debt, and matriculate into the Wisconsin workforce. Over the last 5 years AIM has produced impressive numbers to support Milwaukee, the state, and WLHS alumni. 

- 87% graduation rates in college
- 86% of students graduate debt free
- 87% of students "on track" with 2.5 GPA and 6 years or less to graduate degree
- 87% of students who have secured a job or are pursuing a graduate degree are staying in Wisconsin

We are grateful for this successful program that support our students! If you are interested in learning more about this program please click here.

WLHS partners with many colleges or universities throughout the area or region. Providing student's many dual credit opportunities allows a tailored fit for every Academic and Career Plan. The variety of institutions and programs available to our students is strategic providing access to the right courses and experiences that align with our Career Pathways. This month we are highlighting advanced placement courses at WLHS. These courses are often lead to the end of a pathway or are capstone courses students take on campus to enhance their ACP. Please click here for an overview of AP courses offered on campus.

Please make an effort to attend an AP or Dual Credit informational meeting during the flex period in November if you make plans to request AP and Dual Credit courses. 

Students who are currently enrolled in an AP course can register now to take the AP exam in May. The cost is $99 per exam and is due to Mr. Biesterfeld in the Students Services Office by Friday, November 15. If you are eligible for the free and reduced lunch program, you will qualify for a discounted test price of $62 for each exam. Note that your payment for the exam must be submitted for your registration to be complete.

WLHS is excited to announce that Jeremiah Alejandro ('26), Ryan Parker ('25), and John Torres-Stewart ('25) are winners of the 2024 National Recognition Program by College Board. College Board connects students to college success and this award is another way to showcase achievements to colleges.

The Career Ready Practices, built on a meta-analysis of over 30 different listings of general professional skills developed by industry and educational institutions, represent the skills needed to succeed in the modern workplace. Advance Career and Technical Education has developed a detailed framework of skills students should learn from younger grades into their career. Please click here to learn more.

There is big news for Career Technical Education (CTE) programs, professionals and the learners they serve! Advance CTE has just released a modernized National Career Clusters® Framework that is intended to be an industry-driven, learner centered, and inclusive roadmap for learners to explore and prepare for good jobs across the entire world of work. The Framework has served as the foundation of CTE programs across the nation for more than two decades, but to meet the rapidly changing world of work and the skills and knowledge learners need to navigate and enter that world required a more modern and dynamic Framework. Below are the new categories that will provide a vision for our future workplace and the counsel we provide students. Please click here for more details including an interactive graphic about each individual career cluster. 

Caring for Communities
- Education
- Health Care and Human Services
- Public Service and Safety 

Building and Moving
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Construction
- Supply Chain and Transportation

Cross Cutting Clusters
- Digital Technology
- Management & Entrepreneurship
- Marketing & Sales

Creating Experiences
- Arts, Entertainment & Design
- Hospitality, Events & Tourism

Cultivating Resources
- Agriculture 
- Energy & Natural Resources

Investing in the Future
- Financial Services

WLHS partners with many colleges or universities throughout the area or region. Providing student's many dual credit opportunities allows a tailored fit for every Academic and Career Plan. The variety of institutions and programs available to our students is strategic providing access to the right courses and experiences that align with our Career Pathways. This coming month we are highlighting Waukesha County Technical College offerings through WLHS. Dual Enrollment Academies (DEA) through WCTC provide students college credit and career-based learning experiences in high demand labor markets. DEA’s are capstone programs students take in their final year(s) at WLHS to complete a pathway program. Please click here to learn more about DEA’s through Waukesha County Technical College. Below are offerings WCTC has for students to obtain college credit through a DEA. 

Students interested in a variety of programs through Marquette University should click here to learn more and apply. These programs are offered in a pre-college format allowing students to help build their ACP in the summer or online during the school year.

In September, Sophomores had their first ACP lesson of the year on work values. Please click here to view notes from the lesson and complete the work values assessment in Xello if you have not already done so. 

The next Sophomore meetings will take place on October 28 or 29 during study hall. This lesson will focus on career and lifestyle costs in addition to completing the Matchmaker Assessment. Please click here for an overview of what students can expect at these lessons.

Did you know that WLHS students have the opportunity to get hands on real world experience through dedicated college and career programs via Career-Based Learning Experiences? CBLEs are key components of a student's Academic and Career Plan to supplement the program of study in a career pathway. WLHS offers a variety of CBLEs which you can view on our main page or reach out to a school counselor for more information.

WLHS will offer informational meetings for students requesting to take an AP or Dual Credit course on campus in the 2025-26 school year. AP and Dual Credit informational meetings will be offered during flex period in November based on the results of this form. These meetings are required for all students requesting an AP or Dual Credit course offered at WLHS in 2025-26. Click here to sign up for the meetings. The form will close on October 27. 

A schedule will be built for you to attend these meetings during November flex periods.

Students at WLHS joined many schools and businesses throughout Milwaukee and Waukesha County to attend the Experience the Trades Expo hosted by the Waukesha County Business Alliance. This career-based learning experience provides students with an opportunity to enhance their Academic and Career Plan. Participants had the chance to meet industry professionals, discover various career opportunities, and gain insights into the skills needed for success in these fields. WLHS attends the Experience the Trades Expo each year providing students an opportunity to support learning in multiple career pathways. If you would like to see a recap of the event please click here.

1. Struggle to balance commitments with friends or family.
2. Feel stressed in current friendships or outside relationships.
3. Are seeking ways to manage conflicts that exist within their friend group or family members.

If you would like to join this group, click here to sign up or contact Mrs. Katie Chavez, school counselor, at katie.chavez@wlhs.org.

Students who are currently enrolled in an AP course or plan to take an AP exam in May can register now. The cost is $99 per exam and is due to Mr. Biesterfeld, in the Students Services Office, by Friday, November 15. If you are eligible for the free and reduced lunch program, you will qualify for a discounted test price of $62 for each exam. Please note that your payment for the exam must be submitted for your registration to be complete.

Hear from UW representatives about admission, campus updates, upcoming special campus events and more. Representatives will be available to answer any questions regarding admission to these universities. Students and families are encouraged to attend. Registration is required.

UW-Milwaukee offers a number of scholarships for students who choose to stay in the town to attend college here in Milwaukee. Please click here to learn more!

The 2025–26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA^®) form will be available on or before December 1, 2024. Additional information and updates can be found at the Federal Student Aid Financial Aid website: financialaidtoolkit.ed.gov/tk.

For further resources and information regarding scholarships or FASFA please read our news section or scholarship section of the resource board or Xello.

SoFi is pleased to announce the 2024 fall edition of our Preparing for College Webinar Series for high school parents of college-bound students. This three part series will help prepare families with the information, insights and tools necessary to navigate college financing, and get ready to complete the FAFSA. Register for one or all of the upcoming events: The Parent College Prep Guide Tuesday, October 15 7:00 p.m. Breaking Down the Basics of College Financing Tuesday, November 12 7:00 p.m. Figuring Out Your FAFSA® Tuesday, December 03 7:00 p.m.

Xello is a key component of the WLHS Academic and Career Plan (ACP) which helps students become college, career, and life ready. Over the time here on campus students can utilize Xello at any time to build self knowledge, explore options, create a plan, and reassess. Through Xello, students will be empowered to create healthy habits for growth and explore potential vocations to be productive Christian citizens in a diverse world. For additional information regarding the robust features of Xello please view the information below available to your family.

The Student Success Center (SSC) serves all students as a staffed venue where students can make-up tests, receive academic support and other help. Typically, students attend the SSC during their free periods or they may be assigned there based on academic performance. The SSC is open until 4:00 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Students must arrive at the SSC located in the library by 3:10 p.m. The SSC will also be open before school on Wednesdays beginning at 7:45 a.m., except the first Wednesday of every month.

Wisconsin Lutheran High School achieved a gold medal in the college credit category of the 2024 Advanced Placement Honor Roll Progress Report. This award reflects the outstanding number of students who scored three or higher on their AP exams. We are incredibly grateful to our dedicated AP teachers and hardworking students, whose commitment and effort played a crucial role in this success. Rigorous AP courses combined with impressive scores prepare our students for future academic endeavors and also allow them to earn valuable college credit.

Xello is a key component of the WLHS Academic and Career Plan (ACP) which helps students become college, career, and life ready. Over the time here on campus students can utilize Xello at any time to build self knowledge, explore options, create a plan, and reassess. Through Xello, students will be empowered to create healthy habits for growth and explore potential vocations to be productive Christian citizens in a diverse world. Below are ways students can engage on their own and lessons delivered throughout the year.

WLHS offers an Academic and Career Plan for every student on campus. A key component of a student's ACP is the sequence of courses and experiences in the programs of study offered on and off campus. Student's enhance their post secondary plan by capitalizing on capstone experiences typically in the senior year. One of the capstone experiences offered to students is a Youth Apprenticeship. A YA provides students with a hands on CTE experience in a potential area of study or career after high school. Students who are interested in this unique career-based learning experiences can click here to learn more about the many pathways for YA available. If you have any questions please reach out to the WLHS YA Coordinator, Mr. Schumacher.

Xello is a key component of the WLHS Academic and Career Plan (ACP) which helps students become college, career, and life ready. Over the time here on campus students can utilize Xello at any time to build self knowledge, explore options, create a plan, and reassess. Through Xello, students will be empowered to create healthy habits for growth and explore potential vocations to be productive Christian citizens in a diverse world. Below are ways students can engage on their own and lessons delivered throughout the year.

Wisconsin Lutheran High School offers a post high school planning night each fall. This year the post high school planning night was on September 18, 2024. The state of Wisconsin also offers post high school planning fairs in the Milwaukee area throughout the year. For families interested in attending these fairs please click here to learn more. These events help students as they develop their Academic and Career Plan.

Xello is a key component of the WLHS Academic and Career Plan (ACP) which helps students become college, career, and life ready. Over the time here on campus students can utilize Xello at any time to build self knowledge, explore options, create a plan, and reassess. Through Xello, students will be empowered to create healthy habits for growth and explore potential vocations to be productive Christian citizens in a diverse world. Below are ways students can engage on their own and lessons delivered throughout the year.

WLHS has redesigned its transcript to communicate students' academic records more efficiently. The new single-page transcript now includes a weighted GPA approved last spring by the Board of Directors to determine class rank for eligibility under The Wisconsin Guarantee. This program automatically accepts students in the top 5% of their class for UW–Madison and all other UW–System schools for students in the top 10% of their class. The weighted GPA is also used to determine academic honors including the class valedictorian, salutatorian, and top 10. The unweighted GPA continues to determine honor roll and eligibility.

School Counselors recently met with every Junior Theology class to deliver the first of six lessons on how to deal with setbacks and challenges in life. Module 1 focused on The Foundation of Mental Wellness providing scriptural application, basic elements, the particular viewpoint of the individual, and protective factors instilled through learning.

The Resilience Project which is part of the WLHS School Wellness Plan is offered in partnership with Christian Family Solutions who has developed the six part series to assist WELS High Schools. If you would like to learn more, click here or reach out to your child's school counselor.

The first Viking-2-Viking event for the 2024-25 school year was focused on healthcare careers. Viking-2-Viking brings together young alumni professionals with juniors and seniors to talk about life after graduation, career paths, and how to be productive, Christ-centered professionals. WLHS was excited to welcome back the following alumni:

• Bria Wigley ('20) - Registered Nurse at Froedtert Hospital

School Counselors have met with all seniors in a group and individual setting to give counsel and direction regarding the needed steps toward graduation in preparation for college, career and life. Please look for a follow-up email in your student account or linked below regarding helpful follow-up information. If you have any questions please reach out to your counselor.

Xello is a key component of the WLHS Academic and Career Plan (ACP) which helps students become college, career, and life ready. Over the time here on campus students can utilize Xello at any time to build self knowledge, explore options, create a plan, and reassess. Through Xello, students will be empowered to create healthy habits for growth and explore potential vocations to be productive Christian citizens in a diverse world. Below are ways students can engage on their own and lessons delivered throughout the year.

The University of Notre Dame’s Pre-College Online Program is a great opportunity for students to explore their interests. The format is highly flexible and courses span the fields of business, law, and STEM, and feature dynamic video lessons that allow students to tune in anytime their schedule allows. Click here to learn more and apply.

College Planning Presentation

FAFSA Presentation

FAFSA Presentation Video

Students interested in attending local fairs in Milwaukee or Kenosha in the month of October with a focus in learning about Christian colleges around the nation should click here to learn more and apply.

Sophomores will participate in essential work value sessions next Monday and Tuesday (9/23-24) during study hall. Led by Director of Student Services, Mr. Davis and school counselors, the sessions will cover navigating high school life and include an assessment to create a personalized Academic and Career Plan. Students will also receive access to Xello, an online tool for ACP. WLHS aims to equip freshmen with the knowledge and resources they need for a successful start. The process is designed to help students confidently manage their high school journey and plan for their futures. All sophomores will be required to complete a Xello Work Values assessment following the lesson in anticipation for the next meeting in November. 

Martin Luther College, the WELS college of ministry will be on campus September 23-24 to meet with students. Look for information coming soon in the daily announcements on how to meet with admissions representatives. If you are interested in learning about all the programs and degrees offered at MLC, click here to learn more.

All students and parents are invited to the WLHS Post High School Planning Night on Wednesday, September 18, from 5:30-8:00 p.m. Event details are below. 

• 5:30 pm: HBCU (Historically Black College or University) Presentation in the atrium
• 6:00-8:00 pm: College Fair in the auxiliary gym
  • Meet representatives from a variety of colleges and universities, including trade and tech schools, two- and four-year institutions, military academies, and fire and police training programs.
• 6:15 pm: College Planning Meeting for juniors and parents in the auditorium
• 7:00 pm: Financial Aid and FAFSA Presentation for seniors and parents in the auditorium (also available via recording after event)

The Future Lawyers Program by Harvard Student Agencies offers a unique learning experience for high school students interested in law. Over 2 weekends, participants will explore essential legal topics, including case analysis, position paper writing, and LSAT preparation, while gaining practical insights into various legal careers. Students interested in this program should click here to learn more and apply. You may also reach out to futureleaders@law.harvard.edu if you have any questions. 

In 2012, Mrs. Katie Chavez completed her Master of Education in school counseling through Concordia University Wisconsin and holds a life-time Wisconsin School Counseling License. Over the past two years, Mrs. Chavez has been taking courses to obtain her Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) certification to further support her work at Wisconsin Lutheran High School (WLHS). She is enrolled in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at Bethany Lutheran College for an additional qualification to help those with mental health issues. In the 2024-25 school year, Mrs. Chavez will be completing her LPC certification, with an internship a couple hours a week, at Christian Family Solutions (CFS) in Germantown, Wis.

An E-mail invite was sent to parents on Wednesday, September 11, to set up Xello family accounts. If you have any questions regarding Xello Family, click here or reach out to Xello support at help@xello.world.

WLHS partners with many colleges and universities to provide students dual credit opportunities for individualized Academic and Career Plans (ACP). Martin Luther College is one of our feature partners in dual credit offerings. If you would like to learn more about Martin Luther College, the WELS College of ministry, click here. If you are interested in dual credit opportunities with MLC, click here. Martin Luther College will be on campus at our Post High School Planning Night, September 18 and MLC Admission Days on September 23-24.

Boys in grades 10-12 who are interested in ministry are encouraged to register and attend an event at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in November or February. Please click here for information and registration.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) is curriculum designed to improve completion of school and to prepare students for potential careers in a diverse world. The needed skills and experiences that a CTE area-focused curriculum has cover gaps that the traditional educational model can’t provide. CTE includes a program of study that involves a multi-year sequence of courses that integrates core academic knowledge with technical and occupational knowledge to provide a pathway to post-secondary careers. In addition to preparing students for college and careers, CTE focuses on life readiness including the soft skills needed to be successful after high school. Wisco partners with students to be to be college, career, and life ready.

Starting August 1, students can begin applying to the Universities of Wisconsin for the Fall 2025 term! The Universities of Wisconsin Admissions Portal will open for students to submit traditional applications for admission. Students participating in the new Direct Admit Wisconsin will also be able to submit Direct Admit forms using this portal. Reach out to apply@wisconsin.edu if you have any questions.

College Possible is currently accepting applications for the 2024-25 junior class. College Possible is a pre-college program that assists juniors and seniors with ACT preparation, essay writing, completing college and scholarship applications, and understanding financial aid. Students will meet one-two times a week during their free period or after school. Students must meet GPA, academic and financial requirements to be eligible for the program.

Critical Thinkers is a counseling group that focuses on identifying feelings of anxiety and depression and finding strategies to positively cope. School Counselors visit classrooms for a series of workshops designed to grow problem solving skills, resiliency, and mindfulness.

Method Learning provides students with support for the ACT, Digital SAT, and Financial Literacy. Every students has a free Methodize account through their Xello account. For information on how to access Methodize and other dashboard resources on Xello please click here.

WLHS is grateful to partner with Christian Family Solutions (CFS) in their school-based counseling program for another school year. Through this program, Mrs. Diana Migacz and Mrs. Melissa Partl, licensed professional therapists, will be at our school five days a week to meet with students and provide therapy services. If you feel your child could benefit from counseling services, please contact your child’s school counselor for a referral to the program. CFS offers three free therapy sessions to every student.

Hope Squad is a peer-to-peer self-harm and suicide prevention program. Students are nominated by their peers as trustworthy leaders of the student body. Members are trained on the direct and indirect signs of self-harm and suicide ideation and how to appropriately intervene and refer students to a trusted adult.

1. The Xello Scholarship Finder, accessible through our college, career, and life readiness software.
2. The Scholarship Catalog, available on the Student Services resource board, provides information on various opportunities to support tuition costs beyond WLHS.

Student Services will have two interns completing field work throughout the 2024-25 school year. One of our interns will be working under our school counselors, Mrs. Emily Rodrigue and the other will be working under our CFS therapists, Carly Schroeder. We are thankful to partner with UW-Superior, Bethany Lutheran College, and Christian Family Solutions to help future School Counselors and therapists complete capstone experiences for their degrees. 

Please reach out to Director of Student Services, Mr. Davis if you have any questions.

The WLHS School Wellness Plan aims to foster a Christian environment that supports the spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional well-being of students, staff, and the broader school community. The goal is to provide a holistic approach to support students in their high school years. Below is an overview of the key components of our school wellness plan. 

1. Physical Health and Nutrition  
2. Mental and Emotional Health 
3. School Safety and Healthy Culture 
4. Communication and Professional Development 
5. School Policies and Environment with Evaluation and Improvement

WLHS partners with many colleges or universities throughout the area or region. Providing student's many dual credit opportunities allows a tailored fit for every Academic and Career Plan. The variety of institutions and programs available to our students is strategic providing access to the right courses and experiences that align with our Career Pathways. This month we are highlighting Wisconsin Lutheran College offerings through WLHS. If you would like to learn more about Wisconsin Lutheran College please click here. WLC will be on campus at our Post High School Planning Night, September 18.

Xello is the WLHS College, Career, and Life Readiness software students use to prepare for post high school. Students learn about God-given gifts and abilities and the world in which is around them. Through this process, WLHS students are prepared better to serve those around them using their passions and skills. Please click here to view Xello's new series "Future Ready Careers" to learn about how careers in technology are changing the world. 

Wisco is grateful to partner with All-In Milwaukee (AIM). The partnership supports young Milwaukee high school seniors with three aims in mind: Complete college. Build careers. Transform Milwaukee. In particular, AIM supports high potential students of color who come from limited family incomes, and are first-generation college students. With AIM’s financial aid, and college and career advising, 80% of their students are projected to graduate from college debt-free in four or five years, secure internships, and receive support after college when they take up work places in Milwaukee.

The Student Success Center (SSC) is designed to serve and support all students at WLHS. It serves as the testing center for students with excused absences that need to take make-up assessments. In addition, the center is also available to help specific students who may have individual learning needs. The Student Success Center is staffed by two special education teachers, Mr. Randall Strutz and Mrs. Liz Koester, and two additional support staff, Mr. Kenton Fabian and Mrs. Stephanie Lamas. If you are interested in learning more about the SSC please stop by or contact Mr. Strutz. 

A school profile communicates an overview of program offerings, GPA and test results, and college entrance trends. This is helpful for students who are applying to post secondary institutions or employment to review in the admission or hiring process. Please click here to view the 2024-25 WLHS School Profile.

Seniors: Please look for direction in the coming month in our news section and from school counselor meetings regarding using the school profile, Common App, and Xello for the college admissions process.

On August 7, the U.S. Department of Education announced that the 2025-2026 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA® form) will be launched through a new process. Starting on October 1, the Department will release the 2025-26 FAFSA form for testing with a limited set of students and institutions. The Department will make the application available to all students on or before December 1. More information will be released in the coming weeks. Please click here for the full press release. 

Seniors: More information will be shared regarding college applications, Common App, and Xello in the coming month in the E-News and meetings with School Counselors. Please click here to review a helpful note for students and parents on 7/15.

WLHS welcomes Mrs. Rachel Rebholz ('04) as our first ever school nurse. This new role will support a wellness program that promotes the overall health of the entire student body including on-call residential student care.

Main outcomes of this position include:

• serving our students and families by supporting students with chronic health conditions,
• developing health policies, procedures, and medical emergency plans that meet state law and standards, and
• being a personal resource for families, students, and staff about health information both in school and at home.

Student schedules will be visible in onCampus on Monday, August 5, by 6:00 p.m. Students who have not turned in last year's Chromebook or charger or have unpaid fees will be unable to see their schedule, as their onCampus account will be on hold. To pay an outstanding balance, you may drop off payment at WLHS during our summer office hours or pay over the phone by calling 414-453-4567 ext. 2021.

The WLHS English department is piloting a program this year with juniors to prepare them for meeting ACT reading test benchmarks. During the flex period this fall and early spring, Dr. Stacy Bitter will be facilitating prep sessions for students whose pre-ACT scores indicate a need for support. In addition, she will be facilitating test prep sessions in the second semester prior to the March 18th ACT test date and open to any students who would welcome extra prep time for the ACT reading test. Please reach out to Dr. Stacy Bitter if you have any questions. 

Mini-Courses ACT Preparation Class prepares 11th-12th graders for the official ACT test. Students gain direct instruction in the math, reading, English, and science reasoning as well as the writing section of the ACT test. Class instruction also covers test taking strategies so students become familiar with the types of questions they will encounter and learn a variety of strategies to answer those questions. Students participate in an unofficial pre-and post-test experience that familiarizes them with the ACT testing process.

Xello is a key component of the WLHS Academic and Career Plan (ACP) which helps students become college, career, and life ready. Over the time here on campus students can utilize Xello at any time to build self knowledge, explore options, create a plan, and reassess. Through Xello, students will be empowered to create healthy habits for growth and explore potential vocations to be productive Christian citizens in a diverse world. For additional information regarding the robust features of Xello please view the information below available to your family. 

Xello Features
Xello Overview
Xello Video Overview
Xello Scope and Sequence 
Xello Student Account Access Information
Xello Family Account Access Information

WLHS provides every student an Academic and Career Plan (ACP) that supports students for readiness in college, career, and life. Each month School Counselors meet with students individually and in small groups during the flex period or classroom instruction. The 2024-25 ACP grade level planning calendar is available for families. Please click here to access the calendar.

Academic and Career Planning (ACP) helps students take ownership in preparing for their future. More information about what ACP is can be found here. The goal is for each student to gain knowledge, explore options, and make a final plan by graduation. WLHS uses faculty and staff, personal counseling, career-based learning experiences, and Xello to support post-secondary readiness and success. Click here for the Academic and Career Planning overview at WLHS.

College Possible Wisconsin is offering free FASFA support. Please click here to learn more about the upcoming sessions. Families may register here for the desired free FAFSA support services. 

SoFi wants to help students and families plan for the costs of college to put themselves in the best position possible when they graduate. Join Brian Walsh, SoFi’s Head of Advice and Planning, on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. to learn how parents and students can effectively manage school finances, from understanding expected costs and financial aid packages, to building a budget and funding the gap with different types of loan options. Please click here to register for this event. A reminder that all information SoFi provides to families can be found here.

American School Counselor Association hosted the national school counseling conference in Kansas City, Missouri from July 13-16. Director of Student Services Mr. Grey Davis attended to learn more about preparing students to be college, career, and life-ready. Wisconsin schools attended the conference with hundreds of school leaders around the nation.

The Medical College of Wisconsin hosts several programs that support learners in their academic and professional journeys in medicine and biomedical science, providing opportunities to engage with their institution. Working with students as early as middle school through medical or graduate school, these programs are offered during both the academic year and summer. Click here to learn more and apply for programs in health science and medical career pathways.

Our Board of Directors approved the implementation of a new grade scale in the 2024-25 school year to better align with common grading standards and ensure a level playing field for competitive scholarships. The new scale will:

• Change the lowest passing score to 60%,
• GPAs will be calculated at the end of each semester and can be viewed on the student's transcript in the progress section of onCampus,

Students now have access to Xello, the WLHS College, Career, and Life Readiness software. Access your student account by clicking on the Xello icon in onCampus in the Resource Board or by clicking here. 

Parents have received an email inviting your family to the Xello Family account. Please click here if you need help with access. 

WLHS is grateful to partner with Christian Family Solutions (CFS) in their school-based counseling program. Licensed professional therapists are on campus five days a week to meet with students and provide mental health services. Students are also able to meet with therapists over the summer months either in person or telehealth. If you feel your child could benefit from counseling services, contact your child’s school counselor for a referral to the program.

Wisconsin Lutheran High School provides an Academic and Career Plan to every student. The ACP system is put in place with the goal to prepare every student to be ready for college, career, and life to find success. Wisco students will be guided to know, explore, plan, and go into the world ready for where God wants them to serve.

SoFi has a dedicated page called Preparing for College to further support you financially for your college-bound students for their next chapter of life. Below are the topics and resources SoFI has provided for families. 

1) FAFSA® Changes: What You Need to Know for the 2024-2025 Academic Year
2) What Merit Scholarships Are and How to Find Them
3) Evaluating College Acceptances, and Appealing
4) Financing your Student’s Education

2024-2025 Guide to Financing College with helpful tips and additional resources

Paying for College Hotline where families can set up an appointment with a financial aid specialist at no cost

The Fair Opportunity Project, a Wisconsin-based and Nationally recognized organization is offering free, one-on-one FAFSA help to students so they can easily navigate the application process and unlock financial resources. Please click here to learn more.

Wisconsin Lutheran High School is where every student finds success to the glory of God. Student Services offers services and programs to support and counsel students. We aim to help students learn about their God-given abilities to help them find success in life after high school.

SAT registration is open for the 2024-25 testing year. Many colleges consider SAT scores as part of their holistic admission and placement decisions, and your score is a valid way to show what you've learned. Most juniors take their first SAT in the spring, and many take it again in the fall of their senior year to improve their score. It can help you keep your college options open, demonstrate your unique strengths, and even qualify for scholarships.

May 5-11 is National Youth Apprenticeship Week. Many youth apprenticeship programs are offered by the state through the WLHS curriculum and local companies. Youth apprenticeship provides students career related curriculum in combination with hands-on experience. During the school day, students work in potential career fields in local companies to earn a certificate of achievement that can be helpful for college admission and a resume. WLHS students often follow our Career Pathways Catalog and complete a youth apprenticeship as their capstone course into a potential career area of interest.

Wisconsin Lutheran High School prepares young adults for productive, Christ-centered lives in a diverse world. Student Services offers services and programs to support and counsel students. We aim to help students learn about their God-given abilities and guide them to find success in life after high school.

The Association for Career and Technical Education held the National Work-Based Learning Conference in Milwaukee, WI from May 1-3. The conference highlighted ideas, programs, and experiences in education that are built around connecting learning being done on and off campus to potential career paths. WLHS Academic Dean, Mr. Jim Brandt and Director of Student Services, Mr. Grey Davis attended the conference to learn more about ways Wisco students can be prepared for college, career, and life. If you are interested in current WLHS Career and Technical Areas please click here to learn more. 

Several students interested in military service after high school met with Pastor Horn in January. Pastor Horn serves as the WELS chaplain to the military. Those who are interested in military services can register here to connect with WELS Military Ministry. Weekly devotionals for military personnel can be found here. 

Click here to learn more about the work WELS does for current military members.

Student Services offers some important reminders to the families of seniors to ensure a smooth transition to college or career:

Our last Viking-2-Viking of the year took place April 19. Interested juniors and seniors heard from Wisco alums about their experiences in the world of business. Thank you to the event speakers for sharing their insights and wisdom with our students:

Mini-Courses ACT Preparation Class prepares 11th-12th graders for the official ACT test. Students gain direct instruction in the math, reading, English, and science reasoning as well as the writing section of the ACT test. Class instruction also covers test taking strategies so students become familiar with the types of questions they will encounter and learn a variety of strategies to answer those questions. Students participate in an unofficial pre- and post-test experience that familiarizes them with the ACT testing process. Click here to learn more and apply.

WLHS is grateful to partner with Christian Family Solutions (CFS) in their school-based counseling program. Licensed professional therapists are on campus five days a week to meet with students and provide mental health services. Students are also able to meet with therapists over the summer months either in person or telehealth. If you feel your child could benefit from counseling services, contact your child’s school counselor for a referral to the program.

WELS Campus Ministry, a ministry of WELS Home Missions, provides resources, support, and encouragement to WELS congregations that serve college students around the United States and Canada. These congregations are vital in connecting college students with fellow Christians, strengthening their faith with the gospel message, and encouraging them to share that faith with other college students. Seniors, click here to register for WELS Campus Ministry.

School Counselor Mrs. Chavez, Director of Student Services Mr. Davis, and representatives of the WLHS Hope Squad attended the Mental Wellness Student Leadership Summit in Madison, Wis. Students were able to collaborate with school leaders and students from 45 schools across the state on the topics of mental health awareness and prevention. Our students were able to express the Christian hope that we have in the face of worldly challenges.

College visits are an important experience all Wisco students are encouraged to complete by fall of their senior year. This spring we have several colleges coming to campus to meet with current juniors to talk about potential majors or careers. Visiting with our local and national college partners as they visit our campus provides students access to information and offerings available before physically visiting a campus. Please view our Career Pathways Catalog which helps students map out checkpoints like college visits to complete their Academic and Career Plan at WLHS. Information about what colleges will be on campus this spring will be sent to juniors in the coming weeks. 

Congratulations to seniors Ny'Ree Bailey, Janae Lampkin, and Sierra Sager who were selected to participate in the All-In Milwaukee (AIM) scholars program. AIM is a college completion program that provides financial aid, advising, and program and career support to complete college, build meaningful careers, and transform the Milwaukee community. Many of the students who finish this program after college graduate debt free, complete an internship, and secure a job within the Milwaukee community.

All current students have completed the course request portion of the scheduling process. Course requests are final after Monday, April 15, 2024. Students will need to complete the courses they have requested for the entire 2024-25 school year. If students have a conflict with their course request(s) or do not pass a required course, their alternate course request will be selected.

On Tuesday, April 16, all freshman and sophomore students will take the PreACT at Wisconsin Lutheran. This is a required day of school for freshmen and sophomores. Juniors and seniors do not have school that day. Breakfast will be available until 7:45 a.m., but lunch will not be served. Please note: dismissal is at 11:15 a.m. Read more for the test schedule.

NextGrad is a college, career, and life readiness partner many schools in the nation utilize to communicate to students about potential colleges, majors, and career paths. Our NextGrad digital sign and posters will soon be on our campus to assist our goal of having every student college, career, and life ready.

The Waukesha County Business Alliance partners with WLHS, colleges, and local businesses to offer career-based learning experiences in the Schools2Skills program. This week students toured Glenroy Inc., a flexible packaging producer, to see firsthand advanced and innovative technology in a manufacturing pathway. Students were able to see all parts of production at the factory along with asking questions about potential careers within Glenroy. The afternoon session involved a trip to UW-Milwaukee for a tour of the campus and highlighting key majors the university offers to students. Students were exposed to career clusters connected to the morning manufacturing session. We thank Waukesha County Business Alliance for continued support to help our students learn about careers in our area!

In March, the Viking-2-Viking presentation focused on the field of healthcare. Interested juniors and seniors met to learn more from three of our alumni: Dr. Christopher Roberts ('00) Assistant Professor in Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Mr. Cody J. Fitzwilliams B.S., CNMT ('03) Global Services MICT Technical Instructor, GE Healthcare, and Ms. Hannah Braun ('05) Physician Assistant, Wauwatosa Pediatrics. We thank our alumni for taking time from their busy schedules to share their knowledge and experiences with our students.

Craftsman with Character is a career-based learning experience WLHS has been studying in the 2023-24 school year. CwC recently started in Edgerton, WI at Edgerton Gear Inc. through sponsorship with the US Navy and has now expanded to the Milwaukee area. The creation of CwC was a response to the need for every high school student to develop skills necessary to become career and life ready. The program consists of field visits to local companies in business and trade pathways along with a curriculum that focuses on character development. Participating in this program also links students who are going directly to the workforce after high school to potential employers in the Milwaukee area. Click here to learn more about CwC.

Junior students are reminded that they are required to take the ACT on Tuesday, March 12, as a part of their school-day schedule. Juniors should arrive promptly by 7:30 a.m. A limited grab and go breakfast will be available that morning. Students may bring a calculator for the math portion of the ACT; however, if they don't bring one of their own, there will not be one provided for them. Students will not be admitted to the testing rooms after the test has started. Parents, there is no cost. Students should stop by the Student Services Office for information to set up an ACT account as well as receive a test preparation booklet. This is an official ACT test. Scores from this test are necessary for most college applications. Dismissal will be at 12:30 p.m.  Pizza will be served for lunch at no cost to our students.

We are pleased to share that WLHS is joining many schools around the world by providing a Xello account to every student and parent starting in the 2024-25 school year. Xello is an Academic and Career Planning (ACP) system which will offer families a wider experience and bring all stakeholders together in the ACP process. All information in a student’s Naviance account will be transferred to Xello this summer. Access and information to a student’s Naviance account will be available until August 1, 2024.

An important post secondary readiness tool is now available to the WLHS family which helps all stakeholders in the conference guide our students toward post secondary success. Please click here to view the WLHS College, Career & Life Readiness Blueprint. Our hope is that this scorecard will be a reflective piece for students, parents, and staff as we work together to prepare every student for productive Christ-centered lives in a diverse world. This blueprint can be found on our website along with other helpful resources.

National School Counseling Week highlights the impact school counselors have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career. At WLHS, we are blessed to have dedicated Christian counselors in the Student Services department who are focused on getting students ready for life after high school. Counselors offer guidance in the areas of academics, college and career readiness, and mental health.

Come for a special night organized by students to promote mental health awareness at WLHS on Friday, February 2, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. This event is open to everyone, so bring your family and siblings along! Wear green to show your support. Event highlights include: alumnus speaker, mental health expert, student performances, student art exhibit, and an interactive makerspace. Light refreshments will also be provided. Click here to purchase tickets online for $4 or, students may pay $3 cash through Student Services. All proceeds will go toward funding counseling services for WLHS students with Christian Family Solutions.

Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) is excited to announce a series of engaging events designed to showcase their diverse offerings and provide valuable insights into their programs. Whether you're considering furthering your education or seeking hands-on experiences, WCTC has something for you.

The Viking-2-Viking program invites WLHS alumni to talk about their job and education path with Wisco juniors and seniors. Last week the Viking-2-Viking topic focused on careers in real estate. Thank you to the following alumni who shared their experiences and insights with our students:

More than 75 students, from 6th-12th grades, attended the WLHS Trade Fair on January 18 where they could speak with representatives from 14 local businesses. Businesses included in the event were: Guhring, Inc., Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC), Coach USA, Straight Line Automotive Upholstery, Carpentry Union, and Ultra Tool. Events like these help our students discover future job paths or encourage them to sign up for classes that they can take in high school or college. Stay tuned for future events through WLHS Student Services.

• WLHS Course Catalog
• WLHS Career Pathways Catalog

WLHS is grateful to partner with Christian Family Solutions (CFS) in their school-based counseling program. Mrs. Diana Migacz has been on campus for the past two years and will continue serving Wednesdays-Fridays. This semester, we welcome Mrs. Melissa Partl who is here on Mondays and Tuesdays. Both CFS staff are licensed professional counselors who meet with students in the Student Services office. If you feel your child could benefit from counseling services, please contact your child’s school counselor for a referral to the program.

WLHS will host a Trades Fair on Thursday, January 18 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. in the atrium and upper lobby. Individuals from local companies will be here to meet with students and help them learn and explore potential career pathways. Grades 6-12 are invited to attend and meet with WLHS staff in Student Services and our Trade and Technology Department.

Martin Luther College will be hosting juniors and seniors from WLHS for a Focus on Ministry event February 4-5. If you are interested in attending please contact Pastor Huebner.