SPRING 2026
More than Bricks & Ball Fields
As we reflect on the past few years, we are humbled and ever grateful for the many ways God continues to bless our school through the generosity of our parents, congregations, and other supporters. Every gift—whether time, prayers, or resources—plays a meaningful role in advancing the mission of the high school: “…partner with parents and congregations to train teens for lives of service and eternity.”
We have especially seen these gifts in action over the past few months. From facility improvements of the ball fields and continued school floor and parking lot upgrades, to the upcoming replacement of the chiller and the summer 2026 renovations (updating the media center, converting the study hall room into a Student Services suite, converting the English team room into a classroom, and expanding the Foods classroom), your support is not simply funding projects…it is shaping young lives. Every gift and investment strengthens our ability to provide a physical space and programs, where students grow academically, spiritually, and personally.
These gifts reflect a shared commitment to excellence; one not motivated by recognition, but by the need to give our very best in response to God’s blessings. Through this commitment, we shape the next generation of leaders to see and understand God’s blessings to us. Because of you, we are able to pursue that standard of excellence in our classrooms, our cocurriculars, and our lives.
Together, we are building something far greater than new classrooms and ball fields! We are cultivating a generation of young men and women who are prepared to serve with purpose, lead with integrity, and live one day with Jesus in eternity. Thank you for partnering with FVL to help with current needs, and to leave a legacy of Christian education for generations to come!
President Jeffrey J. Loberger
2026 GOLF OUTING
The 34th Annual FVL Golf Outing will be held on Friday, June 12, at Wander Springs Golf Course in Greenleaf. Proceeds will support FVL Athletics.
The day includes 18 holes of golf with cart, food, and prizes. Early-bird registration begins May 1. Space is limited, and spots go quickly!
Please contact Mission Advancement Counselor Cody Bohl if you are interested in event sponsorship opportunities.
- Registration
$125/golfer - QUESTIONS?
Contact Cody Bohl
cbohl@fvlhs.org or 920-560-5122
2026 GRADUATION
The FVL Class of 2026 will celebrate their graduation on Saturday, May 23, at 10:00 AM in the FVL gym.
NEW THIS YEAR - Attendees must have a ticket to enter the gym. All tickets have been allocated to designated groups and families. None are available for general distribution. If you do not receive a ticket, you are invited to view the livestream in the auditorium or watch online. A link to the livestream will be available at fvlhs.org on Graduation Day.
- Class valedictorian is Adam Erdmann (Bethany, Appleton), son of Jeremy and Renee Erdmann. Salutatorian is Layla Smith (Mount Olive, Appleton), daughter of Michael and Amanda Smith.
- Kate Grady and Gabe Heiges were chosen to be the class speakers for the service.
- Rev. Mike Novotny (922 Ministries) will deliver the message, and FVL's Rev. Brad Krause will be the liturgist.
- Psalm 62:1–2 is the class verse: "My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken."
- The class hymn is "My Soul Finds Rest in God Alone."
2026 FVL OPEN HOUSE
Over 200 people, representing nearly 80 families, visited our annual Open House on March 10. Future high schoolers and their parents were able to tour the campus, attend presentations on high school life, and learn about FVL's sports and activities by meeting with representatives at one or more of the 40 booths representing our activities, athletics, and highlighted academics.
FACULTY & STAFF ANNIVERSARIES
The following faculty are celebrating ministry anniversaries this year (pictured above): Miss Julie Detjen (40); Mr. Dave Kolander (40); Mr. Phil Stern (40); Rev. David Wenzel (40); Mr. Dan Vogel (30); Mrs. Amy Gilmet (20); Mrs. Brenda Mears (20); Mrs. Kris Keller (15); Mr. Karl Schwerin (15); Mr. Ben Stern (15); and Mrs. Miranda Radtke (10). There are no staff celebrating landmark anniversaries this year.
SAVE MONEY FOR TUITION BY USING SCRIP
You can help FVL’s Tuition Assistance program and cut costs on your student’s tuition. Buy and use SCRIP gift cards for your usual purchases—groceries, restaurants, gas, retail stores, and more. Each SCRIP purchase builds your cash rebate (amount varies for each participating business). More than 375 families received over $100,000 in tuition credit for the 2025-26 school year by using SCRIP!
The last day to purchase SCRIP for credit in the 2025-26 school year is Sunday, May 31. Please check FVL's online calendar (fvlhs.org/calendar) for our summer hours and any special holiday hours.
CENTER STAGE AWARDS
This year, FVL's production of Disney's Newsies received recognition from the Center Stage High School Musical Theater Program. Junior Gabe Van Nice and senior Caleb Johnson received Outstanding Performance in a Lead Role for their portrayals of Jack Kelly and Crutchie respectively. Junior Ian Luehring received Outstanding Performance in a Supporting Role for his portrayal of Race. Gabe and Caleb will now audition for the chance to represent the Center Stage Program at the Jimmy Awards in New York City. Additionally, they will be performing at the Center Stage Showcase on May 16 at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center.
THANK YOU, BARGAIN GARDEN!
A special thank you to the nearly 100 Bargain Garden volunteers, who not only give their time and talents to help support our ministry, but also lift FVL up in prayers. Also, many thanks to those who drop off donations and shop at the store.
The Bargain Garden continues to be a tremendous blessing to the ministry of FVL. In the 2025-26 school year alone, they have provided nearly $175,000 in financial support for special projects. Their contributions this year funded a large gift toward phase 3 of our concrete project happening this summer, the furniture and new digital screen coming in the Media Center with the 2026 renovation, and a new large passenger van for our students. Thanks to their generosity, FVL can continue making essential improvements that strengthen our gospel-centered mission.
The store is at 2725 N. Meade St. in Appleton. Stop in and see all the great deals!
2026 FOXFEST DINNER AUCTION
FoxFest attendees enjoyed a night in the "Great Outdoors" that included socializing, food, and fundraising on April 17, at the Hilton Appleton Paper Valley. Over 385 FVL supporters attended, with many others joining the silent auction online. Thanks to the countless volunteers who helped make the night a success. Also, thanks for the multitude of donations from individuals and businesses throughout the Federation and the Fox Valley. Proceeds of about $200,000 will benefit Tuition Assistance.
Plan to attend the next FoxFest on Friday, April 16, 2027!
FINANCIAL FOCUS

Our Let the Children Come mortgage payment comes due on October 31 each year. As we near the halfway point this year, just over 20% of the needed donations have been given. We pray we have a strong finish for the mortgage payment in the coming months. May the Lord continue to bless our efforts! Interested in providing a match gift for our annual Giving Day? Contact our Mission Advancement Office.

Many students are only able to attend FVL because of Tuition Assistance. Your generosity helps these families. Every gift counts!

The FVL Foundation helps donors leave a lasting legacy. Our goal is to raise our current $5,800,000 in assets to over $6,000,000.
3 Giving Initiatives
Thanks to generous donors, we have three special opportunities!
- Chiller Replacement
1x1 Matching Fund
$100,000 through May 15 - Ball Fields - $250,000
$150,000 toward lights | $100,000 toward bleachers
Once gifts are received, a generous donor will cover all remaining costs for all ball field improvements, with completion anticipated by fall of 2027. - Soccer Field Lights
3x1 Triple Match up to $50,000
through May 22
2026-2027
BUDGET APPROVAL
IN MAY
On February 23, FVL’s General Board was introduced to the proposed 2026-27 budget. Key factors in budgeting include enrollment projections, staffing decisions, and congregational commitments for the upcoming year. Next year’s enrollment is projected at 825 students. Budget approval is planned for the May meeting, when we will have a more accurate picture of enrollment and other budget-impact figures. Tuition for 2026-27 was approved. We are very thankful that increased congregational giving to FVL's operating budget has helped keep Federation tuition rates at a modest increase. In this budget preview, the Federation congregations would support just over 10% of the cost of operating the high school.
AROUND SCHOOL
Sculpture Class Fun
The FVL Sculpture class welcomed Mrs. Windsor’s 1st graders from Riverview Lutheran for a special, hands-on experience. After the younger students dreamed up and drew their own imaginative monsters, the high school artists brought those ideas to life as 3D creations. When the monsters were revealed this spring, the first graders had the chance to work with the same clay, creating alongside the students who made their ideas a reality.
Winter Sports Honors
In boys basketball, Gabe Heiges and Caleb Dahlke received 1st Team all-conference. For girls basketball, all-conference honors went to Kinley Peterson (1st Team in a unanimous decision), Brianna Dahlke (2nd Team), and Grace Meier (2nd Team). Wrestler Austin Kufner was named 1st Team all-conference, while Elyse Ahrens received 2nd Team.
Cheer & Stunt
Last February, FVL earned 4th place out of 55 schools in Small Varsity Non-Tumble Division II at the National Cheer Competition in Orlando, FL. This is the highest achievement that the Cheer & Stunt team has earned at the national level! And, here in Wisconsin, the athletes brought home the State Championship for the third year in a row.
Student Honors
FVL Junior, Asher Wingerter, has earned a perfect score of 36 on the ACT—a remarkable accomplishment that places him among the top fraction of students nationwide.
This achievement reflects not only exceptional aptitude, but also diligence, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. Asher’s success is a testament to the strong partnership between dedicated teachers, supportive family, and a student willing to make the most of his God-given gifts.
Summer Job Fair
On March 12, about 145 students had the opportunity to connect with representatives from 17 local businesses, opening the door to a wide range of summer job opportunities.
Spring Sports
Be sure to check the online athletic calendar to see when the Foxes will be in action, during this season of unpredictable weather. Go to fvlhs.org/calendar for the schedule.
Host Families Needed for 2026-27
There are still six male international students who are waiting to hear whether or not they can attend FVL because hosts are not yet available. Email Monica Uhlenbrauck at international@fvlhs.org for more information on these or other new international students.
Getting Your FVL News?
The FVL BEACON, Legacy magazine, President's Report, and Fox Tales can all come directly to your email. Complete our online subscription form at fvlhs.org/subscribe, and you will receive an email when those publications are posted.
CALENDAR
MONDAY, May 11
6:30 PM
FVL Band Jazz Concert in the FVL Chapel/Auditorium
Livestream on YouTube
WEDNESDAY, May 13
6:00 PM
Senior Awards Night
SUNDAY, May 17
2:00 PM
FVL Choirs & Choraliers Spring Concert in the FVL Chapel/Auditorium
Livestream on YouTube
TUESDAY, May 19
7:00 PM
General Board Meeting in the FVL Media Center
SATURDAY, May 23
10:00 AM
Graduation in the FVL Gym
Tickets are needed to be seated in the gym - livestream in auditorium and online
FRIDAY, June 12
8:00 AM
FVL Golf Outing at Wander Springs
Get Your FVL News
We are excited to offer familiar publications in an easy-to-read and convenient online format. Whether it's the BEACON, the Legacy magazine, or the President's Report, it can come directly to your email.
Complete the online subscription form to receive an email when your selected publications are released.

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