Fall at Wayland is a time of excitement, new beginnings, and a chance to try new experiences. For the students, it's getting to know the ins and outs of the Academy. It is a time to figure out time management, how late you can sleep in without missing the start of class, and which is the best place to get pizza delivered late into the evening. For us as parents, it is a chance to reflect and act on how we can support our students, faculty, and staff as they settle in for the coming year by building on Wayland's four pillars: Scholarship, Faith, Health, and Service.
With October right around the corner, the Parents Council is looking forward to Homecoming Weekend (October 13-15). This is a great opportunity for families to come visit their students, see the Academy in full swing, and see firsthand how our kids are evolving. The weekend kicks off Friday morning with an all-school assembly, mini-classes, the Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Pep Rally on Friday night that showcases the student's enthusiasm for Wayland.The event is loud, exciting, and oftentimes filled with amazing feats performed by the students. This is a must-see event as we, the parents, get loud too! There are college meetings, parent conferences, and athletic competitions.The homecoming dance is Saturday night, with members of each class being announced as the Homecoming court, and with the Royalty selected for the Senior Class. This is a time-honored tradition within American high schools.
After taking tons of photos, parents are invited to the Alumni Dinner just up the road at Old Hickory Golf Club. This is an opportunity for current parents to mingle with alumni and former faculty, and toshare stories new and old of what it means to be Wayland Made.
We are so excited to have the school year starting back up! We are also very thankful for the opportunity to serve as the co-chairs of the Parents Council.
Hope to see you on campus soon!!
Pete and Angie Fogarty, P`20, `24, and `26 Co-Chairs of the Wayland Parents Council
As a Wayland parent, you've officially earned your P` year too! Add your student's class year to distinguish yourself in the campus community.
About the Parents Council
The Wayland Parents Council is a dedicated group of volunteer parents representing both boarding and day students. These parents, whether living close to the Academy or around the globe, offer their unwavering support. They coordinate Town Hall meetings, aid in student recruitment, assist fundraising efforts, and volunteer at signature events like Homecoming and the Spring Gala & Auction, ensuring that the Wayland experience remains exceptional. The council passionately works to promote the values of “Gifts that Give Back”, aiding the Academy with time, talent, and treasure. Private schools like Wayland can't thrive on tuition alone. It indeed requires a community of volunteers to make Wayland unique. Should you wish to join these noble endeavors, please reach out to the advancement team. Your contributions will undoubtedly enhance our students' experiences.
Staying Connected at Wayland
There are a lot of things happening on campus, and a lot of ways to keep up with the chatter! Here are our tips on staying up to date on all things Wayland:
Here are our tips for staying up to date:
Bookmark MyWayland to view the most current academic schedules, your student's assignments, the lunch menu, and more. MyWayland is key.
Visit our Flickr page often to see photos of Wayland student life, sports, fine arts events, and more.
Join the Wayland Parents groupon Facebook to connect with other parents and families. Group members can share photos, offer tips, ask questions, and connect with other parents by engaging on the page.
Wayland welcomed many new team members this fall, all of whom share our mission of preparing each student for college and beyond.
Peter Bredlau `85, P`24
Director of Major Gifts
As a day student at Wayland in the early 1980s, Mr. Bredlau participated in cross country, swimming, track, and theater. After 25 years of serving nonprofits and congregations in the Philadelphia area, he and his family have returned to his alma mater in Beaver Dam.
Andrea Chesley
Dean of Enrollment and Financial Aid
In her previous positions at boarding high schools, Ms. Chesley has done it all! She's taught courses, coached teams, dorm parented, and developed successful domestic and international recruitment strategies. Now, she says she's thrilled to be in the Midwest as she continues her career in education.
Lisa Conde Fondeur Modern Languages Department Chair
Ms. Conde raised five children before moving to Spain to teach English for seven years. Her experience working in boarding schools and her love for adventure attracted her to Beaver Dam and this position at Wayland Academy.
Daniel Donovan Director of STEAM
Mr. Donovan has been teaching STEAM and the arts for 12 years. His work has been featured in several professional art shows and exhibits across the country. He looks forward to working with students on all things science, technology, engineering, art, and math.
Carolina Ganske Spanish Faculty
Born and raised in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, Ms. Ganske earned a degree in marketing and advertising (initially working as a news anchor) before moving to the United States in 2007. Now, she holds a master's degree in secondary education and has experience translating for local families.
Rev. Meredith Harmon P`22, `24
Student Success Coach
A lifelong learner and explorer, Rev. Harmon has traveled the world collecting memories and cultural knowledge. Now, she's settled in nearby Columbus, WI and focuses her work on social justice and interfaith relationship and community-building.
Elise Krause `04
Mathematics Faculty
Ms. Krause `04 has spent plenty of time at Wayland...first as a student, and now as a returning faculty member. Over the years she has taught English, math, psychology, and humanities, and worked in our College Counseling program too. Welcome back!
Jeana Meyer
Mental Health Specialist
Licensed Professional Counselor Jeana Meyer has joined Wayland’s health center team. Born and raised in Zimbabwe, she earned her first master’s degree in biotechnology and taught science for six years—before moving to the U.S. in 2004 and earning a second master's degree, this time in counseling.
Leah Steuer
Director of Media Studies and Swan Library
Mrs. Steuer grew up in New York and worked on several TV/film production crews while living in Los Angeles. She is excited to bring her love for communications and popular culture to Wayland's growing media studies program.
Know a family that'd be a good fit at Wayland? They're invited to come tour campus in early November! Visitors will get to talk with students and faculty, tour the campus, and learn about the admissions process and boarding school life.
Achieving SMART goals in academics, athletics, and in life.
The Student Success Program at Wayland is back for its second year, and even better than before! Read the update on how it's helping prepare your child for college and beyond.
The Wayland Big Red has had an eventful fall season! See how the football, volleyball, soccer, tennis, cross country, and rowing teams are doing this season.
Save the Date: Parents are Invited
The Fall Sports Awards Ceremony is Wednesday, Oct. 25. Keep an eye on the Wayland Weekly for more information.
Wayland athletics has partnered with Justagame to bring you livestream coverage of the athletic events played at Janik Field House, including volleyball and basketball. Some competing schools also provide streaming for away games.
Good news! The Wayland Made campaign is in the home stretch toward our $10 million goal. Can you help us reach the finish line? Join us in the Wayland Made crowdfunding challenge as alumni, families, and friends come together to raise money for our upgraded biology labs, a brand new dormitory for girls, as well as our endowment.
Miss the back-to-school parent meeting in July? No worries! Watch the recording on our website and get caught up on everything new for parents this year.
Save the Date:
The next Parent Town Hall is January 23, 2024 at 12 noon CST. Put the date in your calendar now and plan to attend. Registration opens in November.
Parent Town Hall meetings are recorded and posted online and on MyWayland.