The SLCS Foundation provides scholarship recipients with more than money – the students carry with them the support of a community, demonstrating a belief in them and their educational goals.
The SLCS Foundation Scholarship Fund has grown considerably through the years thanks to the continued contributions of thoughtful citizens, businesses, and Spirit Lake alumni. New scholarships include Elaine Greer Memorial Scholarship and Cole Dodds Memorial Scholarship..
Applications are accepted in March. Ask the School Counselor for application information. Review all the scholarships available and apply for those for which you qualify. Some named scholarships award multiple individual scholarships each year.
This community respects its young adults and appreciates the efforts and accomplishments you’ve shown throughout high school and in being a good citizen. We also care about your future as you pursue a career. If that career requires further education, we support that by offering this scholarship to help with the costs of that endeavor. Donations, both large and small, are received each year from friends and alumni of Spirit Lake Community Schools to help this fund grow the number of scholarships available. The SLCS Foundation is proud that many former scholarship recipients have returned to the lakes area to live and therefore support future SLHS graduates.
Selection CriteriaJo Williams initiated the first named scholarship to the newly established SLCS Foundation while still a teacher in 1986. She taught in the Spirit Lake Schools for many years and was a favorite teacher due to her respect for students and an interest in getting to know each student as an individual which was not an easy task because she was a physical education teacher with many students. At her passing in 2016 she bequeathed additional funds that greatly increased the number of scholarships available each year.
Selection CriteriaIn 1986 the Maahs family established a scholarship in memory of Sheryl Maahs. Sheryl was a dedicated academic student, athlete and musician at SLHS and later a student and national-class runner at Iowa State University. A plane crash took her life and those of five others on a cold icy night when returning from national cross country finals. Because Sheryl so appreciated the scholarship she received as a graduating senior, the family thought it appropriate to share that joy with others through annual scholarships to Spirit Lake graduates.
Selection CriteriaIn 1992 a scholarship trust fund was established with funds from the Estate of Dickinson County residents, Adolph and Esther Vestergaard. The income from the trust is used to assist needy and worthy residents in Dickinson and Clay County, Iowa in obtaining an education beyond high school. According to the wishes of the couple the primary criteria used in the selection process is financial need.
Selection CriteriaA named scholarship was established in memory of Raymond and Charlotte Johnson in 1991. Raymond was a dentist and Charlotte a realtor. They felt the importance of encouraging post-secondary education. The ideal lives on through their generous donation and today continues to provide Spirit Lake graduates with support to begin their study in any career or occupation they desire.
Selection CriteriaIn 1993 Burton and Raeburn Newell donated funds to establish the Newell Scholarship for the purpose of assisting student in reaching their education goals. While Burton was President of the Spirit Lake Community School Board of Education, he formed a committee to explore creating a School Foundation. As a result, the SLCS Foundation was established in 1986. His dream was that one day each student that applied would receive a scholarship. His dream is becoming possible thanks to the Newell family and many other donors in the community who support this goal.
Selection CriteriaGordon and Evelyn Ahrendt retired to the lakes after working and raising a family in another area. They enjoyed their relaxing home and the friendly people they met. In support of the community and recognizing the importance of continuing education, Evelyn established this scholarship in 1999 in memory of her late husband. She also died in 2004 but due to her thoughtfulness this generous contribution lives on to assist SLCS graduates in obtaining their education and life goals.
Selection CriteriaThe Home Builders Association of Northwest Iowa began this scholarship in 2000 in memory of Greg Magg. Greg, a graduate of SLHS started his own electrical contracting business after completing vocational training as an electrician. In the spirit of his memory as a young entrepenuer this scholarship was established to help further the education of young men and women who are interested in pursuing an occupation in any technical area relating to building or related vocations.
Selection CriteriaIn 2000, the Vick family established a named scholarship in memory of Edna Vick Swanson. She was an alumnus of Spirit Lake High School. After high school she attended Westmar College and later established a scholarship there. Those funds were transferred to SLCS Foundation when Westmar College closed in 2000.
Selection CriteriaIn 2001, the Thoreson family established a named scholarship in memory of Richard Thoreson. Richard was an alumnus of Spirit Lake Schools. He and his family lived and worked in Algona, Iowa. The family continued to spend time each summer in the lakes region, then later he and his wife, Judy, retired to the area. His respect for the Spirit Lake school system continues on through this gift.
Selection CriteriaThe Siefken Scholarship was established in 2000. George and wife, Mary lived in Spirit Lake. He owned Siefken Electric from 1932-1971 although he left for a time to serve in WWII. Several people in the area also remember buying raspberries from his large garden. George and Mary wished for students to pursue a career that they would enjoy.
Selection CriteriaIn 2004, the family established this scholarship in memory of Alice Mendenhall, a long time Spirit Lake area resident. She was a piano performance and music education major from Coe College who felt deeply about the importance of music education. The scholarship recipient is required to submit a letter from the school of music each year to assure appropriate advancement in their music studies.
Selection CriteriaIn 2005, Beverly Bergquist and Family established this scholarship in memory of Bob Bergquist. Bob was a long time businessman in Spirit Lake. He was a senior vice president with Citation Homes, known in the industry for innovative and creative style.
Selection CriteriaIn 2006, Chuck Rizzuti established the John and Ella Webb Scholarship. Rizzuti, a retired middle school teacher and coach became interested in finding out about John Webb Gym and the man so honored. As he explored more, he learned that John Webb was a popular teacher and coach from 1923 to 1959. Webb took basketball teams to state in 1923, 1928, and 1942. Through this research Rizzuti became friends with the Webb family and this scholarship was established.
Selection CriteriaIn 2006, a named scholarship was established in memory of Kathleen Elizabeth Westenberger. She taught 4th grade for many years at Spirit Lake Elementary School. Because she enjoyed her time with the students, she desired to assist others in accomplishing the goal of becoming an elementary teacher. She and her husband, Karl, lived in Arnolds Park. The scholarship recipient must present a transcript from UNI each year to verify they are a student there and have maintained a grade point average of 3.00 or above.
Selection CriteriaIn 2011, the Wetzeler family established a named scholarship in memory of James Wetzeler. Jim, a Spirit Lake High School graduate, attended college and received a degree in pharmacy. He credited the teachers and science classes he had taken at SLHS for facilitating his enjoyment of medical science, which became a lifelong career. Jim, his wife Catherine and family, lived in Spirit Lake for a short time after college and then moved to Boone and where he continued his career in pharmacy. The family wishes to share his love of science with others.
Selection CriteriaBuilt for Others is the belief that we are at our best only when we are committed to see and encourage the best in others. Great leaders give the most of themselves in order to bring out the most in others. In a culture that often values reward over relationship and teaches us to lift ourselves up, Built for Others seeks to model and teach humility, selflessness, character and personal growth. It is only through consistently giving our best effort that we are able to unlock our full potential. Funds for the scholarship are raised through an annual community golf outing.
Selection CriteriaThe Hummel Family Scholarship was established in 2014 in honor of Dean and Elayne Hummel. Dean liked to tell the story that he and Elayne first met in a 2nd grade classroom in Spirit Lake Schools. It was great joy for them that their three children and six grandchildren could also attend Spirit Lake Schools. Throughout the years Dean and Elayne were very involved in the community, serving on numerous boards and volunteering many hours. Today this kindness and generosity lives on through this scholarship.
Selection CriteriaIn 2005, a Spirit Lake family established a scholarship fund called Helping Hands. The fund was to be invested until 2015 at which time money would become available for scholarships to students. In 2011 the driving force behind the scholarship suddenly passed away. However, the original intent of the gift from him and his wife would go on by providing scholarships and give back to a community that had served them and their family so well. They felt that young people are the future and wanted to invest in their learning and higher educational experience.
Selection CriteriaIn 2015 the SLHS Class of 1995 and the Rick family established the Sara Rick Memorial Fund in honor of Sara Rick. After graduating from SLHS in '95 Sara furthered her education at the University of Iowa and Drake University receiving degrees in elementary/middle school education and urban education. Throughout Sara's life she enjoyed working with young people, reading for enjoyment and learning, socializing and attending sporting events. Even after graduation, one would see Sara in attendance at events supporting her alma maters. Sara was a loved teacher in the Waukee School District where she taught ancient world history to 6th grade students.
Selection CriteriaThe McCulloch Family Scholarship was established in 2017 by Don and Joan McCulloch. Don, a retired SLCS Middle School teacher and Joan, retired Director of the Voluntary Action Center recognizes this family friendly community, quality education system and support of young people. This scholarship was established to show graduating seniors how much they are respected and to wish them well as they continue with their educational goals and future endeavors.
Selection CriteriaIn 2019 the Schmitz family established the Jerry and Norma Schmitz Scholarship in memory of their parents. Jerry, a successful businessman in the agricultural industry, worked hard to give back to the communities where he lived. He and Norma raised their family in Wall Lake and later retired to the lakes area. This scholarship pays honor to Jerry and Norma for their hard work, integrity, appreciation for others and generosity. With this scholarship those qualities will be passed forward to a deserving high school graduate.
Selection CriteriaTom and Annette Kalkhoff moved to Spirit Lake in 1986 when Dr. Kalkhoff began his career as a family practice physician. Annette taught in both the elementary and middle schools, enjoying her years working with the staff and students. Their two children, Michelle and Mike, are graduates of Spirit Lake High School, and were very involved in school activities. The Kalkhoffs feel strongly that a good education is key to future success and wish to encourage future graduates with this scholarship.
Selection CriteriaWhen the graduating class of 1977 met for their 40th class reunion, they generously donated to fund this scholarship. Although the members of this class live in many places throughout the country and world, they agree that their years in Spirit Lake were special and they still appreciate the educational opportunities of the Spirit Lake Schools and the community support they received during their developing years.
Selection CriteriaWhen the Spirit Lake High School graduating class of 1979 met for their 40th class reunion, they generously donated to fund this scholarship. Although the members of the class live in many places throughout the country and world, they agree that their years in Spirit Lake were special and they still appreciate the educational opportunities of the Spirit Lake Schools and the community support they received during their developing years.
Selection CriteriaThe Family of Jim Golden donated funds for the Jim Golden Construction Scholarship after an auto accident sadly took his life in 2019. Jim, highly respected in the building industry, was especially interested in and involved with energy efficient building and affordable housing. He also served the community on the Okoboji Fire and Rescue Department and on many boards including the YMCA, Habitat for Humanity, Kindred Hospice and Kinship. Giving to the community was part of him and will continue on as his family awards this scholarship in his name.
Selection CriteriaKenny and Laureen Beck built a road construction business from the ground up through hard work and strength of character. It is a student that exemplifies those same values that will earn the Kenny and Laureen Beck Memorial Scholarship. After spending summers at the lake with their boys for several years, Kenny and Laureen moved permanently to the southeast side of Big Spirit Lake over 20 years ago. The Becks truly believed in the value of a college education and consistently instilled that in their children and grandchildren. The legacy continues today as funds from their memorials will now be used for college scholarships for deserving students for years to come.
Selection CriteriaThe Donna Tritle Musical Legacy Scholarship was presented by The Elwin Tritle family in 2022 in honor of Donna's life-long love of music and her generous legacy of sharing it with others. Donna and her husband encouraged their children and grandchildfren to find and pursue their musical gifts, from Bach to rock, on varied instruments including guitar, organ, brass, and their voices. In addition, she enjoyed donating many hours at the school accompanying students who entered music competitions. Donna would be very pleased for her memorial fund to help encourage other young people to pursue their musical talents through this scholarship.
Selection CriteriaWhen the Spirit Lake High School graduating class of 1992 met for their 30th class reunion, they generously donated to fund this scholarship. Although the members of the class live in many places throughout the country and world, they agree that their years in Spirit Lake were enjoyable, and they still appreciate the educational opportunities of the Spirit Lake Schools and the community support they received during their developing years.
Selection CriteriaThe family of Donald F. Rodawig Jr. MD funded this scholarship in 2023 in honor and memory of their father a long time Lakes Area family physician. In addition to his medical career, he was active in his church and many community services organizations. Due to his dedication to the medical profession and in helping people in all areas of their lives, this scholarship will be given to a student desiring to enter a career in the medical field.
Selection CriteriaThe family of Randy Loerch initiated this scholarship in 2023 in memory of Randy who tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident. After high school Randy served his country in the US Navy. As Spirit Lake Schools property and grounds maintenance supervisor, he made many friends and especially enjoyed helping friends and family with projects. As we all know people with skills in the trades are valuable to our community and the world. Therefore, the family would like this scholarship to be given to a student desiring training in the trades.
Selection CriteriaThe family of Joyce Grim established this scholarship in 2024. Joyce Grim was very patriotic. After losing a son in the Vietnam War, she donated many hours to promote Patriotism in the schools. As a Dedicated member of the VFW Auxiliary, Joyce read up to 500 essays each year on “Why I Love America” and she also delivered apples to teachers for National Education week every year.
Selection CriteriaIn 2024 Drew Dau established the Betty Lou Legacy Scholarship in honor of his grandmother's life-long love of teaching. Betty and her husband Claude encouraged their children and grandchildren to find and pursue higher education, and lifelong learning. The scholarship is available for students dedicated to advancing their education in the arts.
Selection CriteriaWhen the Spirit Lake High School graduating class of 1993 met for their 30th class reunion, they generously donated to fund this scholarship. Although the members of the class live in many places throughout the country and world, they agree that their years in Spirit Lake were special and they still appreciate the educational opportunities and foundation of the Spirit Lake Schools, as well as the community support, they received during their developing years.
Selection CriteriaIn 2024 the family of Elaine Greer is giving this scholarship in her honor and memory. During the time Elaine taught at the Spirt Lake High School, she first taught a business class, then made the transition to the at-risk counselor and eventually became the full-time guidance counselor. She touched the lives of so many with her caring, loving compassion for the students. That generosity and love continues through this scholarship.
Selection CriteriaThe family of Cole Dodds initiated this scholarship in 2024 in memory of Cole who unexpectedly passed away just four days after the loss of his father Dean Dodds. He was a graduate of SLHS and in college earned a Master of Science Degree, later returning to Spirit Lake to work as a Quality Assurance Engineer. He enjoyed the fact that his two daughters, Kinley and Kylin could attend Spirit Lake Schools. His academic dedication to learning, earning a college degree, and his love of the lakes area will live on through this scholarship.
Selection CriteriaWant to Help?
Gifts of any amount are appreciated and will have a tremendous impact on the school’s programs today and in the future.
Contribute Today