The first week of STEAM was all about collaboration and creativity. It is seeing all of the students’ smiling faces back in the STEAM lab!
LAST CALL! 2026 Homecoming shirts will not be available for order after 8am TOMORROW! : https://isd108.revtrak.net/ and click on High School Fees.
Last year, Central Elementary was fortunate to add new LEGO learning materials to their STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) lab. Since then, our students have enjoyed a new activity that takes focus and determination to create amazing things from their imaginations. Many thanks to the Central Booster Club and the proceeds from their annual Raider Rally!
Our athletic department is hiring new coaches! The following positions are open:
- Middle School Girls Basketball
- Middle School Softball
- C-Squad Softball
- JV Softball
- Varsity Softball
Join our Raider team and apply today! https://www.isd108.org/page/employment
- Middle School Girls Basketball
- Middle School Softball
- C-Squad Softball
- JV Softball
- Varsity Softball
Join our Raider team and apply today! https://www.isd108.org/page/employment
Our next Hall of Fame Honoree is Class of 1992 graduate, Layton Schlueter!
Layton first started playing basketball in first grade at Zion Lutheran School in Cologne where he helped bring the team tournament wins. Layton fondly remembers his high school years, especially being a part of a variety of athletic teams as well as gaining his first experience in the world of construction.
He was involved in basketball, baseball, FFA, and was a Homecoming representative. During his sophomore year, Layton moved up to the varsity basketball team and became a starter after just four games. In his junior year, his points per game record was set in a game against Jordan with 46 points. And during his senior year, he finished his basketball career with 1,296 points.
Layton got a glimpse into the field of construction in Mr. Swiggum’s shop class by building many storage sheds for the school and others in the community.
Following high school, Layton first worked on his family’s farm and later went on to begin a full-time job working in building construction. Later on, he started his very own business Layton Schlueter Construction LLC.
Layton is engaged to Nikki Stuewe and has three daughters Madison, McKenna and Morgan, plus one grandchild with one more on the way. Layton enjoyed years of coaching his daughter’s basketball teams when they were young.
He recalls his favorite part about high school were the memories spent hanging out with friends, playing the sports he loved, and the many achievements he received throughout his basketball career.
The third Annual Raider Rally and Hall of Fame Induction will be on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 5 p.m. at the Hamburg Community Hall. Help us celebrate our Hall of Fame honorees - purchase your tickets to the Raider Rally now: https://108raiderrally.com/
Layton first started playing basketball in first grade at Zion Lutheran School in Cologne where he helped bring the team tournament wins. Layton fondly remembers his high school years, especially being a part of a variety of athletic teams as well as gaining his first experience in the world of construction.
He was involved in basketball, baseball, FFA, and was a Homecoming representative. During his sophomore year, Layton moved up to the varsity basketball team and became a starter after just four games. In his junior year, his points per game record was set in a game against Jordan with 46 points. And during his senior year, he finished his basketball career with 1,296 points.
Layton got a glimpse into the field of construction in Mr. Swiggum’s shop class by building many storage sheds for the school and others in the community.
Following high school, Layton first worked on his family’s farm and later went on to begin a full-time job working in building construction. Later on, he started his very own business Layton Schlueter Construction LLC.
Layton is engaged to Nikki Stuewe and has three daughters Madison, McKenna and Morgan, plus one grandchild with one more on the way. Layton enjoyed years of coaching his daughter’s basketball teams when they were young.
He recalls his favorite part about high school were the memories spent hanging out with friends, playing the sports he loved, and the many achievements he received throughout his basketball career.
The third Annual Raider Rally and Hall of Fame Induction will be on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 5 p.m. at the Hamburg Community Hall. Help us celebrate our Hall of Fame honorees - purchase your tickets to the Raider Rally now: https://108raiderrally.com/
Hello to Courtney Widmer! Not only is she our new elementary paraprofessional, but she is also a Central High School alum!
She shared that she chose to work in Central Public Schools because she wants students to have the same great experience that she had as a student.
Prior to becoming a paraprofessional, Courtney worked in the corporate world for more than 20 years. She always dreamed of working at a school since she was in high school, and decided to make the career change. She said it was the best decision ever!
Her favorite class in high school was psychology with Mr. L.
In her spare time, she loves to go camping and fishing with her family! She also enjoys running and quality Saturday family movie nights.
She shared that she chose to work in Central Public Schools because she wants students to have the same great experience that she had as a student.
Prior to becoming a paraprofessional, Courtney worked in the corporate world for more than 20 years. She always dreamed of working at a school since she was in high school, and decided to make the career change. She said it was the best decision ever!
Her favorite class in high school was psychology with Mr. L.
In her spare time, she loves to go camping and fishing with her family! She also enjoys running and quality Saturday family movie nights.
High school prom is a core memory for our students. Every detail is thoughtfully crafted to create a unique experience each year.
Thanks to the Central Booster Club, and their proceeds from the Raider Rally, beautiful linens were purchased for the tables within the event space creating a magical space to make memories!
Thanks to the Central Booster Club, and their proceeds from the Raider Rally, beautiful linens were purchased for the tables within the event space creating a magical space to make memories!
The Central High School yearbook committee recently benefited from funds donated by the Central Booster Club. A new telephoto lens was purchased for the yearbook team members to capture the memories that will be shared in the annual yearbook.
The funds from the Booster Club and the Raider Rally make wish list items like this a reality and we are so grateful!
The funds from the Booster Club and the Raider Rally make wish list items like this a reality and we are so grateful!
Here’s to another way that the Central Booster Club’s Raider Rally supports our Raider community. Funds from a previous Raider Rally were able to purchase padded and Raiders-branded folding chairs for the varsity gym. The chairs are used at various sporting and community events and are full of Raider pride.
Thank you to the booster club for this perfect addition!
Thank you to the booster club for this perfect addition!
Help us welcome our newest Middle School Health and PE teacher, Jeremiah Kramer!
He chose to work at Central because of the great surrounding communities and the beautiful facilities at the schools.
When asked about how he got into education, Jeremiah shared that he had great relationships with his past teachers and coaches, in turn he wants to help young people in the same ways.
Growing up, his favorite school subject was History. In his free time, he enjoys any kind of games and fishing.
He chose to work at Central because of the great surrounding communities and the beautiful facilities at the schools.
When asked about how he got into education, Jeremiah shared that he had great relationships with his past teachers and coaches, in turn he wants to help young people in the same ways.
Growing up, his favorite school subject was History. In his free time, he enjoys any kind of games and fishing.
Our Central Booster Club supports athletics in many ways to give our Raiders additional support. In 2023, the organization purchased a new scorer's table for the high school gymnasium. The scorer’s table is used for various sporting and community events.
Thank you to the booster club for donating funds to support our students and athletes! Current families are invited to attend the Raider Rally to support more purchases like this.
Thank you to the booster club for donating funds to support our students and athletes! Current families are invited to attend the Raider Rally to support more purchases like this.
Our fourth graders spent time discussing the history and impact of Sept. 11th, focusing on the bravery, compassion, and unity that emerged in its aftermath. Through class discussions, students learned that heroes come in many different forms and facets—from the brave first responders who rushed toward danger to everyday citizens who stepped up to help complete strangers.
By reflecting on these acts of selflessness and courage, our students gained a deeper understanding of community and resilience, ensuring that those affected and the heroes who served will never be forgotten.
By reflecting on these acts of selflessness and courage, our students gained a deeper understanding of community and resilience, ensuring that those affected and the heroes who served will never be forgotten.
Welcome to Central, Morgan Dahlke! Morgan is a new first grade teacher. Let’s get to know her more:
“I chose to work at Central because, coming from a small town myself (Glencoe), I know how special it is to be in a small town community and work closely with the families that are a part of it! Even being new, I’ve already felt the warmth, kindness, and heartfelt welcome from everyone here, and it makes me excited to be a part of such a hard-working, dedicated team here at Central!”
“I began my career in education when I was at Gustavus Adolphus College. I wasn’t sure if education was what I wanted to pursue, but as soon as I got to be in a classroom, help students understand a new concept and see their joy in their own learning, I knew that this career was a passion for me! It brings me so much joy to see students learn and help them reach their goals!”
Favorite subject growing up: “English”
“In my spare time I like to spend time with my family and friends, read books, travel to new places, and relax by the lake :)”
“I chose to work at Central because, coming from a small town myself (Glencoe), I know how special it is to be in a small town community and work closely with the families that are a part of it! Even being new, I’ve already felt the warmth, kindness, and heartfelt welcome from everyone here, and it makes me excited to be a part of such a hard-working, dedicated team here at Central!”
“I began my career in education when I was at Gustavus Adolphus College. I wasn’t sure if education was what I wanted to pursue, but as soon as I got to be in a classroom, help students understand a new concept and see their joy in their own learning, I knew that this career was a passion for me! It brings me so much joy to see students learn and help them reach their goals!”
Favorite subject growing up: “English”
“In my spare time I like to spend time with my family and friends, read books, travel to new places, and relax by the lake :)”
The Raider Rally is the Central Booster Club's largest fundraiser each year. Thanks to the generous support of our community, business sponsors, civic organizations and the Raider Rally attendees, money is donated to support our students in various groups and activities.
Thank you to the following sponsors from the 2025 Raider Rally.
- Steinhagen Enterprises
- Advanced Electric
- Choice Electric
- Hamburg Lions
- Wm Mueller & Sons
- Vos Construction
- VFW Post 1783
This year’s Raider Rally is taking place on Oct. 3. Learn more and purchase your tickets today! https://108raiderrally.com/
Thank you to the following sponsors from the 2025 Raider Rally.
- Steinhagen Enterprises
- Advanced Electric
- Choice Electric
- Hamburg Lions
- Wm Mueller & Sons
- Vos Construction
- VFW Post 1783
This year’s Raider Rally is taking place on Oct. 3. Learn more and purchase your tickets today! https://108raiderrally.com/
Jill Rolf is our new Occupational Therapist! Welcome, Jill! Here are some fun facts she shared:
Why did you choose to work at Central Public Schools?
“Growing up here and now being a parent in the district, I’ve experienced firsthand the strong sense of community and culture at Central. I’m excited to now be part of that community and contribute to a place that has meant so much to my family and me. “
What led you to a career in education?
“Growing up, I always wanted to work with kids and be either a nurse or a teacher. When I discovered occupational therapy and realized I could combine my interests in both healthcare and education, I knew it was the perfect fit for me!”
Favorite subject in school: “Math!”
“In my spare time, I enjoy reading, camping with my family, and spending time outdoors at our farm!”
Why did you choose to work at Central Public Schools?
“Growing up here and now being a parent in the district, I’ve experienced firsthand the strong sense of community and culture at Central. I’m excited to now be part of that community and contribute to a place that has meant so much to my family and me. “
What led you to a career in education?
“Growing up, I always wanted to work with kids and be either a nurse or a teacher. When I discovered occupational therapy and realized I could combine my interests in both healthcare and education, I knew it was the perfect fit for me!”
Favorite subject in school: “Math!”
“In my spare time, I enjoy reading, camping with my family, and spending time outdoors at our farm!”
2026 Homecoming shirts are now available! : https://isd108.revtrak.net/ and click on High School Fees.
The Central Booster Club hosts their annual Raider Rally each fall. The event celebrates the newest inductees into the Central Hall of Fame. These honorees include outstanding former teachers and coaches or students and student-athletes.
Additionally, the Raider Rally is the booster club’s largest fundraiser of the year. The funds raised from the event each year are donated to benefit current students within athletics, fine arts, classrooms and activities.
During the weeks leading up to the Raider Rally, we’ll be featuring how funds have supported numerous projects throughout the district. Nearly $100,000 has been donated to Central Public School students in the past five years by the Central Booster Club.
We appreciate their support of our students and hope that our families will take advantage of this awesome event!
Additionally, the Raider Rally is the booster club’s largest fundraiser of the year. The funds raised from the event each year are donated to benefit current students within athletics, fine arts, classrooms and activities.
During the weeks leading up to the Raider Rally, we’ll be featuring how funds have supported numerous projects throughout the district. Nearly $100,000 has been donated to Central Public School students in the past five years by the Central Booster Club.
We appreciate their support of our students and hope that our families will take advantage of this awesome event!
Help us welcome our newest preschool teacher, Paige Heimerl! She shared a few fun facts about herself:
Paige shared that she is excited to work at Central Public Schools because of the amazing community that supports the staff and school.
While growing up, her mother ran an in-home daycare which encouraged Paige to pursue her passion of teaching young children.
When asked about her favorite school subject, she shared that she loved reading as a kid and still loves it today.
Paige enjoys doing anything outdoors in any season such as hunting, fishing, and hiking. She also likes baking, playing guitar, and watching NFL football.
Paige shared that she is excited to work at Central Public Schools because of the amazing community that supports the staff and school.
While growing up, her mother ran an in-home daycare which encouraged Paige to pursue her passion of teaching young children.
When asked about her favorite school subject, she shared that she loved reading as a kid and still loves it today.
Paige enjoys doing anything outdoors in any season such as hunting, fishing, and hiking. She also likes baking, playing guitar, and watching NFL football.
Lee Hasse and Melanie Lawson’s story is not only one of classic high school sweethearts, but also a story of their love and passion for their community that has created a legacy.
Lee and Melanie met as young children and later became high school scholars, leaders, and track athletes. They even attended three proms together. Lee’s mom and siblings were graduates of Central. Melanie’s siblings were also graduates and their father served as the Superintendent.
During his high school years, Lee participated in ’C’ Club, football, basketball, track, band, choir, class officer, Student Council officer, prom committee, and was a Homecoming Attendant. Melanie participated in ‘C’ Club, Freshman Class President, cheerleading, National Honor Society, Student Council, band, Health Club, volleyball, track. Melanie went to state in the mile as a freshman and was a Homecoming Queen candidate.
After graduation, Lee attended Hennepin Technical College and received a degree in architectural drafting and has been working for many years in the field of design and drafting. He’s planning on retiring in January 2027.
Melanie attended the Minnesota School of Business and was hired as the Billing Coordinator for a law firm in the cities where she worked for 11 years. She then returned to the district, working for Kid’s Company, filling in at the high school and district offices, and then as a middle school paraprofessional. In 2000, Melanie worked in the office at the Waconia Middle School for 22 years and then came back to Central as the Athletic Directors Assistant for a year before leaving to care for her youngest granddaughter.
Lee and Melanie were married during a blizzard in January 1982. They raised three children, Teryn, Tyler and Tanner. Each were Central Graduates who all married fellow Central Graduates including Pat Widmer, Molly Hazelton and Trista Stern. Lee and Melanie have been blessed with seven grandchildren and their time is consumed in their many activities.
When Central had a need for score table workers in the late 1990’s, Lee and Melanie jumped in and have been at center court for all home volleyball and basketball games ever since. Lee also runs the scoreboard at football games and has coached middle school track and basketball and a few teams of their grandchildren.
The Hasses are active members of the community and take pride in their connections to Central Public Schools. Central runs deep in their hearts and they will always bleed Maroon and White and promote school and community pride at any opportunity.
The third Annual Raider Rally and Hall of Fame Induction will be on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 5 p.m. at the Hamburg Community Hall. Help us celebrate our Hall of Fame honorees - purchase your tickets to the Raider Rally now: https://108raiderrally.com/
Lee and Melanie met as young children and later became high school scholars, leaders, and track athletes. They even attended three proms together. Lee’s mom and siblings were graduates of Central. Melanie’s siblings were also graduates and their father served as the Superintendent.
During his high school years, Lee participated in ’C’ Club, football, basketball, track, band, choir, class officer, Student Council officer, prom committee, and was a Homecoming Attendant. Melanie participated in ‘C’ Club, Freshman Class President, cheerleading, National Honor Society, Student Council, band, Health Club, volleyball, track. Melanie went to state in the mile as a freshman and was a Homecoming Queen candidate.
After graduation, Lee attended Hennepin Technical College and received a degree in architectural drafting and has been working for many years in the field of design and drafting. He’s planning on retiring in January 2027.
Melanie attended the Minnesota School of Business and was hired as the Billing Coordinator for a law firm in the cities where she worked for 11 years. She then returned to the district, working for Kid’s Company, filling in at the high school and district offices, and then as a middle school paraprofessional. In 2000, Melanie worked in the office at the Waconia Middle School for 22 years and then came back to Central as the Athletic Directors Assistant for a year before leaving to care for her youngest granddaughter.
Lee and Melanie were married during a blizzard in January 1982. They raised three children, Teryn, Tyler and Tanner. Each were Central Graduates who all married fellow Central Graduates including Pat Widmer, Molly Hazelton and Trista Stern. Lee and Melanie have been blessed with seven grandchildren and their time is consumed in their many activities.
When Central had a need for score table workers in the late 1990’s, Lee and Melanie jumped in and have been at center court for all home volleyball and basketball games ever since. Lee also runs the scoreboard at football games and has coached middle school track and basketball and a few teams of their grandchildren.
The Hasses are active members of the community and take pride in their connections to Central Public Schools. Central runs deep in their hearts and they will always bleed Maroon and White and promote school and community pride at any opportunity.
The third Annual Raider Rally and Hall of Fame Induction will be on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 5 p.m. at the Hamburg Community Hall. Help us celebrate our Hall of Fame honorees - purchase your tickets to the Raider Rally now: https://108raiderrally.com/
Continuing on our introductions of new team members, next up is Sydney Farber! She is our newest first grade teacher. Let’s get to know her!
When asked why she chose to work at Central, she shared that she loves being part of a small community and building strong relationships with each of the students.
Growing up, she loved babysitting and working with kids. She is very passionate about helping students grow in both their education and as people. Sydney shared that she couldn’t see herself doing anything else other than teaching.
Her favorite subject in school was art.
When Sydney is not teaching, she likes to bike, shop, hang out with friends and family, and of course her cat named Cuddles!
When asked why she chose to work at Central, she shared that she loves being part of a small community and building strong relationships with each of the students.
Growing up, she loved babysitting and working with kids. She is very passionate about helping students grow in both their education and as people. Sydney shared that she couldn’t see herself doing anything else other than teaching.
Her favorite subject in school was art.
When Sydney is not teaching, she likes to bike, shop, hang out with friends and family, and of course her cat named Cuddles!
