Sturgeon Bay Seeks Tech-Ed Equipment Funding, Southern Door to Offer Capstone Diploma Program

More than 60 percent of the equipment that Sturgeon Bay School District tech-ed teachers and students use is 40-plus years old, which means that it’s often outdated or worn out and does not align with the district’s mission to prepare students for future careers. 

Therefore, the district has launched a campaign to raise $100,000 to purchase new equipment for the machine, metal fabrication/welding and wood shops, as well as the new Fab Lab.

“We are very proud of what we offer our students,” said high school tech-ed teacher Brian Pahl, and we “believe the skills they develop in class will transfer directly to the workplace – and hopefully right here in Door County.” He said that providing this equipment will boost student self-esteem while providing marketable skills. 

Some equipment purchases have begun, and 40 percent of the project is already funded. All donors will be recognized with their business names and logos on the shop wall: a reminder to the students of the importance of community support.

“Here in the Sturgeon Bay School District, we are actively working to add more talent in the field of manufacturing to Door County,” said tech and engineering ed teacher Michael Bryfczynski.

Southern Door High School is one of approximately 1,800 schools worldwide to implement the AP Capstone Diploma Program: an innovative initiative that allows students to develop the skills that matter most for college success, such as research, collaboration and communication. The program consists of taking two courses – AP Seminar and AP Research – in sequence.  

The Southern Door Board of Education gave approval on Dec. 15 for the school to offer the AP Seminar in the fall of 2021.

Chloe LaCrosse, daughter of Jeremy and Tracy LaCrosse, received a $500 State Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) Grant sponsored by Saputo Cheese USA. 

Her plan is to improve her herd’s genetics by implanting flushed embryos into recipient cows or heifers in the months of January, June and March so they will calve in a show month of March, September or December.

In December, LaCrosse received a $1,000 National SAE Grant, sponsored by California Certified Organic Farmers. Her plan with that grant is to purchase a wagyu heifer calf with hopes to one day practice raising wagyu beef organically.