What's your title at CLHS?
Mathematics Teacher and Boys Soccer Coach
Are you a Concordia alum or parent?
I graduated from CLHS 1991, both my parents (Roger and Carolyn (Borchelt) Macke) graduated from CLHS 1952. All nine of my older siblings graduated from CLHS, and my son Elijah class of 2022. My daughter Savannah is currently a Freshmen at CLHS.
When did you start at CLHS?
I started coaching soccer Fall of 2001 and teaching mathematics Fall of 2004.
Please describe your position at CLHS.
I currently teach three different mathematics classes. Algebra 1 with Algebra Lab, Geometry, and Career and College Readiness. As a mathematics teacher I enjoy helping students who struggle in mathematics. A good day is observing students persevere through their mathematical challenges. I do my best to guide them to solving problems as well as encouraging them to continue to do their best. The same is true as a soccer coach. I enjoy helping players to develop their soccer skills. I then get to see the joy on their faces as the team is successful on and off the soccer field.
What was your education that led you to CLHS?
I graduated from CLHS 1991 and then graduated with a Bachelor's of Science in 1997 with a Major in Mathematics and a Minor in Secondary Education. I taught middle school mathematics from 1997 to 2004, as well as coached soccer at many different levels. I was privileged to become the boys soccer coach at Concordia fall of 2001, which lead to me being hired as mathematics teacher fall of 2004.
What did you love most about teaching at CLHS?
What I love the most about teaching at CLHS is being able to guide students to their purpose. We all struggle and helping young men and women to find their God given talents is the most important aspect of teaching. We are all made for a purpose and once a student finds that purpose seeing the passion to pursue that purpose is very inspiring.
What's your favorite story about your time at CLHS?
I have so many memories with CLHS that to narrow down to one is impossible. As a child growing up with older siblings at CLHS going to home sporting events, concerts and plays was my favorite times. As a student at CLHS my favorite memory would be sitting in the lounge before or after school with my friends. As a teacher my favorite memory would be coming up with the phrase "It is not hard just new." I had a geometry class that helped with the development. So when students are struggling I remind them many things we struggle with are new. Since new concepts can be tough so practicing them repeatedly gets the new concepts in the main brain.
Who were your mentors in your career to becoming an educator?
I would have to say everyone of my teachers from elementary at Wyneken to CLHS teachers to college professors. They each have had an impact on me as a teacher. At Wyneken my 8th grade teacher Mr. Zimmer did an excellent job guiding me to my passions. Teachers at CLHS Mr. Don Lupke, Mr. Ed Lebeau and Mr. Don Reinking. All three had very different personalities, but all helped me find my purpose. The best mentor I had as a Coach was Skip Sassmannhausen. Coach Sass pushed me to become a full Christian athlete. I did not think I could a great athlete but he continued to encourage me. Finally, the best leaders and mentors I have and had my family. Yes, my parents and each one of my nine older siblings have helped develop me to who I am today. Thank you each and everyone of you. You are a true blessing to me and my family.