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OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP
AWARD FINALISTS
Recognition of outstanding leadership resulting in moving a group to a notable achievement or
improved performance
Colleen Rooney
LEARNING COACH
Colleen Rooney, Learning Coach, brings passion, expertise, and a student-first mindset to everything she does. She leads the PLE and Horizon tech teams, helping teachers meaningfully integrate technology into their classrooms. With her background in STEAM through the National Parks Service, she has expanded hands-on learning opportunities in both elementary schools. This year, Colleen also played a key role in developing district-wide structures to support inclusive learning communities. Her commitment to students is unwavering, and her dedication to continuous learning makes her a trusted resource and invaluable partner to staff across the district.
ATHLETICS AND ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR
Jeff Behrens
Jeff Behrens is the heart of Pewaukee’s athletics—leading with passion, wisdom, and a relentless commitment to excellence. Named the 2025 WIAA Athletic Director of the Year, Jeff has guided the program to numerous state appearances, championships, and national recognition. Under his leadership, the program earned the prestigious QPA award and WIAA Award of Excellence, placing it among the top 0.04% in the nation. A visionary leader, Jeff reframed the Graduate Profile to align athletics with lifelong leadership, shaping athletes into their best selves on and off the field.
HORIZON ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL
Christie Johnson
In her first year at Pewaukee, Christie Johnson, Principal of Horizon Elementary, has made a remarkable impact through her purposeful, heart-centered leadership. Committed to creating a school where both students and staff thrive, she has implemented thoughtful systems and structures that improve outcomes and foster a culture of collaboration and growth. Christie empowers those around her by actively listening, offering meaningful support, and encouraging reflection through insightful questions. She works tirelessly behind the scenes and alongside her team to move the school forward, establishing clear processes that enhance efficiency and align with district goals. Her vision, empathy, and strategic thinking have already made a lasting impression on the Horizon community.
PEWAUKEE LAKE ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL
Brian Siegel
Brian Siegel, Principal of Pewaukee Lake Elementary, leads with unwavering care, integrity, and a deep commitment to the students, staff, and families he serves. His calm and steady presence, paired with a thoughtful, student-centered approach, creates a supportive and empowering environment where everyone feels valued. Approachable and reflective, Brian consistently models a growth mindset, always seeking ways to improve and elevate the school experience for his entire community. His grounded leadership inspires trust and fosters a culture of continuous learning and connection.
CUSTODIAN OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR
Olivia Gill
Olivia Gill, Custodian Operations Supervisor, is a tremendous asset to the Pewaukee School District. Always responsive and positive, Olivia brings a can-do attitude to every request, no matter how challenging. She communicates clearly, follows through with care, and never hesitates to go above and beyond to ensure our buildings are safe, clean, and welcoming. Even in tough situations, she stands strong for her team and helps guide them through with resilience and determination. Her dedication, reliability, and relationship-building make her an invaluable leader and support to all.
Services
OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE
AWARD FINALISTS
Recognition of outstanding achievement which may include substantial professional accomplishment, athletics or club accomplishment, or results in student performance
Cheryl Panka
4K TEACHER
Cheryl Panka, 4K Teacher, is a passionate educator who goes above and beyond to meet the unique needs of every learner in her classroom. She consistently sets a high bar for student achievement, fostering a nurturing environment where young learners feel supported and empowered to thrive. Cheryl brings innovation into her teaching, sparking creativity and a genuine love for learning in her students. Always striving for growth, she continually seeks out new ways to help each child reach their full potential, making her a truly inspiring presence in the early learning community.
GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH AND PHS SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER
Jim Reuter
Jim Reuter, Pewaukee High School social studies teacher and head coach of the girls varsity basketball team, is a shining example of excellence both on and off the court. With a remarkable 25-3 record this season and a well-earned title as the 2024 WBCA Coach of the Year, Jim led the team to its first-ever state championship, building on two consecutive state runner-up finishes in 2022 and 2023. His overall coaching record of 164-29, including four straight conference titles, reflects not only his strategic brilliance but also the strong, positive culture he fosters within the program. As a member of the Pewaukee Coaches Advisory Group and the state coaches association executive board, Jim consistently elevates the standard for coaching in Pewaukee, serving as a role model of leadership, dedication, and integrity for coaches across the district.
5TH GRADE SPECIAL ED TEACHER
Shannon Dusel
Shannon Dusel, Special Education Teacher, Department Chair, and active member of both the Building and School Leadership Teams at Horizon Elementary, is a visionary leader and dedicated advocate for inclusive education. A true big-picture thinker, Shannon brings a thoughtful and strategic lens to every challenge, always centering the needs of students and the greater school community. As a mentor to new staff and a constant source of support for colleagues, she leads with empathy, clarity, and purpose. Shannon never chooses the easy route—instead, she works tirelessly to problem-solve and implement meaningful solutions that benefit not only her students but the entire building. Her commitment, leadership, and deep care make her an invaluable asset to Horizon and the district as a whole.
JULIE PURNEY, JESSIE LOEPFE, CATHERINE PURDY, STEPHANIE BAYER, MATT OPIE, SIERRA GILL, SARA GULL, LAURA HOWARD, KATIE MOEDE (NOT ALL PICTURED)
PLE Encore Team
The Pewaukee Lake Elementary Encore Team—Julie Purney, Jessie Loepfe, Catherine Purdy, Stephanie Bayer, Matt Opie, Sierra Gill, Sara Gull, Laura Howard, and Katie Moede—truly embodies the power of collaboration, creativity, and community. This dynamic team celebrates every student’s unique gifts through engaging and meaningful Encore experiences that foster joy and connection. Their efforts shine brightest during the district’s largest event, the unforgettable Spring Sing, which brings the entire school together in celebration. They also extend PLE’s welcoming spirit through a variety of family nights that open the doors to the broader community. By working in seamless harmony, this team exemplifies what’s possible when a group of passionate educators unite around a shared purpose—the success and celebration of all students.
PHS MATH TEACHER
Katrina Tollenaar
Katrina Tollenaar, PHS Math Teacher, is deeply dedicated to her students’ success. In the first year of AP Precalculus, she achieved a 100% pass rate, a reflection of her hard work, commitment, and care. Always going above and beyond, Katrina is known for her quick grading, constant availability, and ability to adapt to each student's needs. She invests her own time into professional development, grading AP exams, and creating engaging lessons. Her passion, support, and tireless efforts make a lasting impact on students and set a high standard for teaching excellence.
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