🌟 Florence Diggers Softball Annual Meeting 🌟
Join us on Thursday, October 9th at 6:00 PM at the Florence Community Center for our annual softball program meeting! ⚾💙
This meeting is open to the public – parents, players, and community members are all welcome. If you’re interested in learning more or getting involved with Florence Diggers Softball, we’d love to see you there!
📅 Date: Thursday, October 9th
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Florence Community Center
Let’s keep building a strong program together! 🙌
Join us on Thursday, October 9th at 6:00 PM at the Florence Community Center for our annual softball program meeting! ⚾💙
This meeting is open to the public – parents, players, and community members are all welcome. If you’re interested in learning more or getting involved with Florence Diggers Softball, we’d love to see you there!
📅 Date: Thursday, October 9th
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Florence Community Center
Let’s keep building a strong program together! 🙌
Registration for all Karate students for the 2025-2026 school year must be mailed to the address below or
turned into the Elementary or High School Office by Wednesday, September 10 th . Forms can also be
picked up at these office locations. All forms must be filled out completely along with a $15.00
registration fee per child plus the first month’s class payment. This registration fee goes to cover startup
costs. The cost per class is $10.00. The first month’s total class payment will be $45.00. Checks can
be made out to Wayne/Karen Harrison. The first class will start on Monday, September 15th at the
Florence Elementary School in the Music Room. Class times will be determined after registration so
please register early.
We recommend students be at least five years old to begin Karate lessons. Classes will be $40.00 per 4-
week month, ($50.00 for five-week month). Discounts will be given for families having three or more
children participating. Charges will be $40.00 per child for the first two and $20.00 for each additional
child (this is for a 4-week month). Class fees are due the first class of each month, missed classes
will not be refunded students can attend make-up classes. If you are paying a month late a 10% late
fee will be added. If payment is not received by the end of the next month, the student will not be allowed
to attend class. Any "bounced" checks will have a $40.00 fee added.
Students in need of a Karate uniform the order will be placed Monday, October 6th. The students’
black uniforms will cost approx. $40.00. Red Belt uniforms cost approx. $50.00. Payment must be in prior
to order.
We are looking forward to a fun and enjoyable year of Karate in Florence.
Wayne & Karen Harrison
Harrison's Academy of Martial Arts
4154 Blome-Helgren Road
Florence, WI 54121
715-528-5249
turned into the Elementary or High School Office by Wednesday, September 10 th . Forms can also be
picked up at these office locations. All forms must be filled out completely along with a $15.00
registration fee per child plus the first month’s class payment. This registration fee goes to cover startup
costs. The cost per class is $10.00. The first month’s total class payment will be $45.00. Checks can
be made out to Wayne/Karen Harrison. The first class will start on Monday, September 15th at the
Florence Elementary School in the Music Room. Class times will be determined after registration so
please register early.
We recommend students be at least five years old to begin Karate lessons. Classes will be $40.00 per 4-
week month, ($50.00 for five-week month). Discounts will be given for families having three or more
children participating. Charges will be $40.00 per child for the first two and $20.00 for each additional
child (this is for a 4-week month). Class fees are due the first class of each month, missed classes
will not be refunded students can attend make-up classes. If you are paying a month late a 10% late
fee will be added. If payment is not received by the end of the next month, the student will not be allowed
to attend class. Any "bounced" checks will have a $40.00 fee added.
Students in need of a Karate uniform the order will be placed Monday, October 6th. The students’
black uniforms will cost approx. $40.00. Red Belt uniforms cost approx. $50.00. Payment must be in prior
to order.
We are looking forward to a fun and enjoyable year of Karate in Florence.
Wayne & Karen Harrison
Harrison's Academy of Martial Arts
4154 Blome-Helgren Road
Florence, WI 54121
715-528-5249
🍎 We’re Hiring – Substitute Food Service Cooks! 🍴
The School District of Florence County is looking for dependable and flexible individuals to join our Food Service team!
✅ $15.90/hour
✅ Flexible schedule (hours vary)
✅ Work at Florence Elementary or Middle/High School
✅ No experience required – training available!
Help us serve nutritious meals to students while working in a positive, team-focused environment.
👉 Apply today at myflorence.org/page/employment
📩 Questions? Contact kolberga@myflorence.org
Join us in making a difference—one meal at a time! 💚
The School District of Florence County is looking for dependable and flexible individuals to join our Food Service team!
✅ $15.90/hour
✅ Flexible schedule (hours vary)
✅ Work at Florence Elementary or Middle/High School
✅ No experience required – training available!
Help us serve nutritious meals to students while working in a positive, team-focused environment.
👉 Apply today at myflorence.org/page/employment
📩 Questions? Contact kolberga@myflorence.org
Join us in making a difference—one meal at a time! 💚
Florence Elementary School extends a heartfelt thank you to Tyson and Christie Ferrari and Trevor and Amanda Peterman from The Window Store in Marquette for their generous donation. Their gift included not only much-needed school supplies, but also an abundance of extra snacks for our students. We are truly grateful for your kindness and support—thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
In the picture is Tyson and Christie Ferrari with their son.
🐾 Get Your Bobcat Gear & Show Your Support! 🐾
We’ve opened a Bobcat Volleyball Sprint Shop for the whole season! This ship-to-order store delivers fast, so you can cheer on our Bobcats in style.
🛒 Limited items available
📦 Ships right to your door
Perfect for fans who missed the original order—grab your gear and support our Bobcats all season long!
https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/JPnSgUXTnH
We’ve opened a Bobcat Volleyball Sprint Shop for the whole season! This ship-to-order store delivers fast, so you can cheer on our Bobcats in style.
🛒 Limited items available
📦 Ships right to your door
Perfect for fans who missed the original order—grab your gear and support our Bobcats all season long!
https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/JPnSgUXTnH
Registration for all Karate students for the 2025-2026 school year must be mailed to the address below or
turned into the Elementary or High School Office by Wednesday, September 10 th . Forms can also be
picked up at these office locations. All forms must be filled out completely along with a $15.00
registration fee per child plus the first month’s class payment. This registration fee goes to cover startup
costs. The cost per class is $10.00. The first month’s total class payment will be $45.00. Checks can
be made out to Wayne/Karen Harrison. The first class will start on Monday, September 15th at the
Florence Elementary School in the Music Room. Class times will be determined after registration so
please register early.
We recommend students be at least five years old to begin Karate lessons. Classes will be $40.00 per 4-
week month, ($50.00 for five-week month). Discounts will be given for families having three or more
children participating. Charges will be $40.00 per child for the first two and $20.00 for each additional
child (this is for a 4-week month). Class fees are due the first class of each month, missed classes
will not be refunded students can attend make-up classes. If you are paying a month late a 10% late
fee will be added. If payment is not received by the end of the next month, the student will not be allowed
to attend class. Any "bounced" checks will have a $40.00 fee added.
Students in need of a Karate uniform the order will be placed Monday, October 6th. The students’
black uniforms will cost approx. $40.00. Red Belt uniforms cost approx. $50.00. Payment must be in prior
to order.
We are looking forward to a fun and enjoyable year of Karate in Florence.
Wayne & Karen Harrison
Harrison's Academy of Martial Arts
4154 Blome-Helgren Road
Florence, WI 54121
715-528-5249
turned into the Elementary or High School Office by Wednesday, September 10 th . Forms can also be
picked up at these office locations. All forms must be filled out completely along with a $15.00
registration fee per child plus the first month’s class payment. This registration fee goes to cover startup
costs. The cost per class is $10.00. The first month’s total class payment will be $45.00. Checks can
be made out to Wayne/Karen Harrison. The first class will start on Monday, September 15th at the
Florence Elementary School in the Music Room. Class times will be determined after registration so
please register early.
We recommend students be at least five years old to begin Karate lessons. Classes will be $40.00 per 4-
week month, ($50.00 for five-week month). Discounts will be given for families having three or more
children participating. Charges will be $40.00 per child for the first two and $20.00 for each additional
child (this is for a 4-week month). Class fees are due the first class of each month, missed classes
will not be refunded students can attend make-up classes. If you are paying a month late a 10% late
fee will be added. If payment is not received by the end of the next month, the student will not be allowed
to attend class. Any "bounced" checks will have a $40.00 fee added.
Students in need of a Karate uniform the order will be placed Monday, October 6th. The students’
black uniforms will cost approx. $40.00. Red Belt uniforms cost approx. $50.00. Payment must be in prior
to order.
We are looking forward to a fun and enjoyable year of Karate in Florence.
Wayne & Karen Harrison
Harrison's Academy of Martial Arts
4154 Blome-Helgren Road
Florence, WI 54121
715-528-5249
📚✨ Story-time is Back at the Florence County Library! ✨📚
Get ready for fun, learning, and lots of giggles! The Florence County Library is excited to bring back Story-time / Tot Time every Friday at 9:30 AM, beginning Friday, September 5.
This special weekly event is designed for our youngest readers and their families. Each session features engaging stories, rhymes, and activities that spark imagination, build early literacy skills, and create wonderful memories.
👶 Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers
📅 Every Friday at 9:30 AM, starting September 5
📍 Florence County Library
Bring your little ones, snuggle in, and let’s make Fridays full of stories and smiles! 💕
#FlorenceCountyLibrary #Storytime #TotTime #EarlyLiteracy #FamilyFun
Get ready for fun, learning, and lots of giggles! The Florence County Library is excited to bring back Story-time / Tot Time every Friday at 9:30 AM, beginning Friday, September 5.
This special weekly event is designed for our youngest readers and their families. Each session features engaging stories, rhymes, and activities that spark imagination, build early literacy skills, and create wonderful memories.
👶 Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers
📅 Every Friday at 9:30 AM, starting September 5
📍 Florence County Library
Bring your little ones, snuggle in, and let’s make Fridays full of stories and smiles! 💕
#FlorenceCountyLibrary #Storytime #TotTime #EarlyLiteracy #FamilyFun
🎉 Florence Elementary Open House! 🎉
Mark your calendars — Thursday, August 28, from 2–5:30 PM!
Meet your teachers, see your classrooms, drop off supplies, and connect with community groups before the first day of school on September 2. We can’t wait to see you there!
Mark your calendars — Thursday, August 28, from 2–5:30 PM!
Meet your teachers, see your classrooms, drop off supplies, and connect with community groups before the first day of school on September 2. We can’t wait to see you there!
📣 Please join us in giving a warm Florence County welcome to our new Physical Education & Health Teacher, Mr. Uwe Schmeelk! 👏
Mr. Schmeelk brings a wealth of experience, having taught PE and French in Germany since 2010 and most recently in the Beecher Dunbar Pembine School District. He lives in Pembine with his wife Katie, daughters Mara (7th grade) and Thalea (5th grade), and their dog Nova. 🏡🐾
When he’s not in the gym, you’ll find him traveling, playing tennis and volleyball, or spending time with his family. We’re thrilled to have him on our team! 💪🌟 #FlorenceCountyPride #WelcomeAboard #TeamFlorence #GoFloCats
Mr. Schmeelk brings a wealth of experience, having taught PE and French in Germany since 2010 and most recently in the Beecher Dunbar Pembine School District. He lives in Pembine with his wife Katie, daughters Mara (7th grade) and Thalea (5th grade), and their dog Nova. 🏡🐾
When he’s not in the gym, you’ll find him traveling, playing tennis and volleyball, or spending time with his family. We’re thrilled to have him on our team! 💪🌟 #FlorenceCountyPride #WelcomeAboard #TeamFlorence #GoFloCats
We’re excited to welcome Sarah Eloranta to the Florence team! Sarah previously taught MS/HS Science at Beecher/Dunbar/Pembine Schools and lives in Florence with her husband and their three children, Jonas, James, and Maggie.
When she’s not teaching, Sarah enjoys baseball, running, hunting, fishing, camping, and archery—where she also serves as an instructor. She’s passionate about providing her kids opportunities to live their best life and looks forward to bringing that same energy to her students this year!
When she’s not teaching, Sarah enjoys baseball, running, hunting, fishing, camping, and archery—where she also serves as an instructor. She’s passionate about providing her kids opportunities to live their best life and looks forward to bringing that same energy to her students this year!
Registration for all Karate students for the 2025-2026 school year must be mailed to the address below or
turned into the Elementary or High School Office by Wednesday, September 10 th . Forms can also be
picked up at these office locations. All forms must be filled out completely along with a $15.00
registration fee per child plus the first month’s class payment. This registration fee goes to cover startup
costs. The cost per class is $10.00. The first month’s total class payment will be $45.00. Checks can
be made out to Wayne/Karen Harrison. The first class will start on Monday, September 15th at the
Florence Elementary School in the Music Room. Class times will be determined after registration so
please register early.
We recommend students be at least five years old to begin Karate lessons. Classes will be $40.00 per 4-
week month, ($50.00 for five-week month). Discounts will be given for families having three or more
children participating. Charges will be $40.00 per child for the first two and $20.00 for each additional
child (this is for a 4-week month). Class fees are due the first class of each month, missed classes
will not be refunded students can attend make-up classes. If you are paying a month late a 10% late
fee will be added. If payment is not received by the end of the next month, the student will not be allowed
to attend class. Any "bounced" checks will have a $40.00 fee added.
Students in need of a Karate uniform the order will be placed Monday, October 6th. The students’
black uniforms will cost approx. $40.00. Red Belt uniforms cost approx. $50.00. Payment must be in prior
to order.
We are looking forward to a fun and enjoyable year of Karate in Florence.
Wayne & Karen Harrison
Harrison's Academy of Martial Arts
4154 Blome-Helgren Road
Florence, WI 54121
715-528-5249
turned into the Elementary or High School Office by Wednesday, September 10 th . Forms can also be
picked up at these office locations. All forms must be filled out completely along with a $15.00
registration fee per child plus the first month’s class payment. This registration fee goes to cover startup
costs. The cost per class is $10.00. The first month’s total class payment will be $45.00. Checks can
be made out to Wayne/Karen Harrison. The first class will start on Monday, September 15th at the
Florence Elementary School in the Music Room. Class times will be determined after registration so
please register early.
We recommend students be at least five years old to begin Karate lessons. Classes will be $40.00 per 4-
week month, ($50.00 for five-week month). Discounts will be given for families having three or more
children participating. Charges will be $40.00 per child for the first two and $20.00 for each additional
child (this is for a 4-week month). Class fees are due the first class of each month, missed classes
will not be refunded students can attend make-up classes. If you are paying a month late a 10% late
fee will be added. If payment is not received by the end of the next month, the student will not be allowed
to attend class. Any "bounced" checks will have a $40.00 fee added.
Students in need of a Karate uniform the order will be placed Monday, October 6th. The students’
black uniforms will cost approx. $40.00. Red Belt uniforms cost approx. $50.00. Payment must be in prior
to order.
We are looking forward to a fun and enjoyable year of Karate in Florence.
Wayne & Karen Harrison
Harrison's Academy of Martial Arts
4154 Blome-Helgren Road
Florence, WI 54121
715-528-5249
Welcome to the Bobcat Family, Jill Wagner! 🐾
We’re excited to introduce Jill Wagner, our newest member of the Bobcat family! Jill grew up in Iowa and spent her summers in the U.P. at her parents’ resort near Manistique/Munising — which sparked her love for the area and eventually led her here.
With parents who were both teachers, Jill followed in their footsteps, earning a degree in Secondary Education while also playing volleyball and basketball at her parents’ alma mater. For over 25 years, she’s been dedicated to education and coaching, bringing a wealth of experience and passion to her new role.
Jill is married, has four children and one dog, and loves spending her free time watching sports (especially the Iowa Hawkeyes, Green Bay Packers, and Indiana Fever), hiking to waterfalls, sightseeing, reading, and enjoying plenty of chocolate!
Join us in giving Jill a warm Bobcat welcome as she begins this exciting new chapter with our school community! 💚
MS/HS Online Registration Now Open
We’re excited to partner with you in preparing for a successful school year! Middle and High School online registration is now open and must be completed by August 27th.
Please note: registration must be completed before students can receive their Chromebooks.
To support families, we’ll be offering guided help with registration during Parent/Student University from 5:00–5:30 p.m. Thank you for your partnership in completing this important step to ensure our students are ready for a great year ahead!
We’re excited to partner with you in preparing for a successful school year! Middle and High School online registration is now open and must be completed by August 27th.
Please note: registration must be completed before students can receive their Chromebooks.
To support families, we’ll be offering guided help with registration during Parent/Student University from 5:00–5:30 p.m. Thank you for your partnership in completing this important step to ensure our students are ready for a great year ahead!
I’m so excited to introduce myself as your new Elementary Principal for the 2025–2026 school year! I truly feel honored to be stepping into this role, and I can’t wait to spend the year learning, growing, and celebrating alongside our little Bobcats.
Florence has been my home professionally since 2021, when I joined the district as a Special Education Teacher. Since then, I’ve also served as Dean of Students and, most recently, Assistant Principal. Each role has given me the chance to work closely with our incredible students, families, and staff, and it’s made me even more committed to creating a school where every child feels safe, supported, and inspired to do their best. Before coming to Florence, most of my career was spent teaching middle and high school science, which means I still get a little spark in my eyes whenever I see students exploring and asking “why?”
Family is a huge part of who I am. My husband, Joe, is a proud 2000 graduate of Florence High School, and together we’re raising two amazing kids—Bradly (18) and Isabella (15). As a family, we love spending time outdoors camping, hunting, and fishing.
As we head into the new school year, my biggest goal is to build strong, lasting connections with our students and families. You’ll see me at drop-off and pick up, events, and popping into classrooms—so please don’t be shy about saying hello. My door (and email inbox) is always open, and I’d love to hear your ideas, questions, or simply a good Bobcat story or two, especially if it includes my husband!
Here’s to a year full of learning, laughter, and success for every single one of our students. I’m so glad we get to do this together.
With excitement,
Richelle Jochem
Principal
Florence Elementary School
jochemr@myflorence.org
Florence has been my home professionally since 2021, when I joined the district as a Special Education Teacher. Since then, I’ve also served as Dean of Students and, most recently, Assistant Principal. Each role has given me the chance to work closely with our incredible students, families, and staff, and it’s made me even more committed to creating a school where every child feels safe, supported, and inspired to do their best. Before coming to Florence, most of my career was spent teaching middle and high school science, which means I still get a little spark in my eyes whenever I see students exploring and asking “why?”
Family is a huge part of who I am. My husband, Joe, is a proud 2000 graduate of Florence High School, and together we’re raising two amazing kids—Bradly (18) and Isabella (15). As a family, we love spending time outdoors camping, hunting, and fishing.
As we head into the new school year, my biggest goal is to build strong, lasting connections with our students and families. You’ll see me at drop-off and pick up, events, and popping into classrooms—so please don’t be shy about saying hello. My door (and email inbox) is always open, and I’d love to hear your ideas, questions, or simply a good Bobcat story or two, especially if it includes my husband!
Here’s to a year full of learning, laughter, and success for every single one of our students. I’m so glad we get to do this together.
With excitement,
Richelle Jochem
Principal
Florence Elementary School
jochemr@myflorence.org
🏀 Middle School Girls Basketball Practice Starts August 18th! 🏀
Get ready to hit the court!
📅 First Practice: August 18
📍 Location: Florence Elementary School
⏰ Time: 3:00–4:30 PM
Whether you're a returning player or new to the team, we’re excited to see your hustle, teamwork, and energy this season. Let’s make it a great one!
What to Bring:
✔️ Water bottle
✔️ Proper basketball shoes
✔️ Positive attitude
Reminder:
You must have an up-to-date physical on file to participate.
Questions? Contact Mr. Johnson at johnsonk@myflorence.org.
Let’s go, Ladycats! 🐾
Get ready to hit the court!
📅 First Practice: August 18
📍 Location: Florence Elementary School
⏰ Time: 3:00–4:30 PM
Whether you're a returning player or new to the team, we’re excited to see your hustle, teamwork, and energy this season. Let’s make it a great one!
What to Bring:
✔️ Water bottle
✔️ Proper basketball shoes
✔️ Positive attitude
Reminder:
You must have an up-to-date physical on file to participate.
Questions? Contact Mr. Johnson at johnsonk@myflorence.org.
Let’s go, Ladycats! 🐾
🎉 Florence Elementary Open House! 🎉
Mark your calendars — Thursday, August 28, from 2–5:30 PM!
Meet your teachers, see your classrooms, drop off supplies, and connect with community groups before the first day of school on September 2. We can’t wait to see you there!
Mark your calendars — Thursday, August 28, from 2–5:30 PM!
Meet your teachers, see your classrooms, drop off supplies, and connect with community groups before the first day of school on September 2. We can’t wait to see you there!
🐾 Get Your Bobcat Gear & Show Your Support! 🐾
We’ve opened a Bobcat Volleyball Sprint Shop for the whole season! This ship-to-order store delivers fast, so you can cheer on our Bobcats in style.
🛒 Limited items available
📦 Ships right to your door
Perfect for fans who missed the original order—grab your gear and support our Bobcats all season long!
https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/JPnSgUXTnH
We’ve opened a Bobcat Volleyball Sprint Shop for the whole season! This ship-to-order store delivers fast, so you can cheer on our Bobcats in style.
🛒 Limited items available
📦 Ships right to your door
Perfect for fans who missed the original order—grab your gear and support our Bobcats all season long!
https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/JPnSgUXTnH
Now Hiring: Student Custodian for 2025–26!
Are you a student looking to earn extra cash after school? Join our custodial team!
🕒 2 hours/day after school
💵 $13.31/hour
📍 Great experience, flexible schedule
Apply now and take pride in keeping our school shining! For more information contact Bill Witynski at witynskib@myflorence.org or 715-528-3217 ext 1101.
🏀 Middle School Girls Basketball Practice Starts August 18th! 🏀
Get ready to hit the court!
📅 First Practice: August 18
📍 Location: Florence Elementary School
⏰ Time: 3:00–4:30 PM
Whether you're a returning player or new to the team, we’re excited to see your hustle, teamwork, and energy this season. Let’s make it a great one!
What to Bring:
✔️ Water bottle
✔️ Proper basketball shoes
✔️ Positive attitude
Reminder:
You must have an up-to-date physical on file to participate.
Questions? Contact Mr. Johnson at johnsonk@myflorence.org.
Let’s go, Ladycats! 🐾
Get ready to hit the court!
📅 First Practice: August 18
📍 Location: Florence Elementary School
⏰ Time: 3:00–4:30 PM
Whether you're a returning player or new to the team, we’re excited to see your hustle, teamwork, and energy this season. Let’s make it a great one!
What to Bring:
✔️ Water bottle
✔️ Proper basketball shoes
✔️ Positive attitude
Reminder:
You must have an up-to-date physical on file to participate.
Questions? Contact Mr. Johnson at johnsonk@myflorence.org.
Let’s go, Ladycats! 🐾
Now Hiring: Student Custodian for 2025–26!
Are you a student looking to earn extra cash after school? Join our custodial team!
🕒 2 hours/day after school
💵 $13.31/hour
📍 Great experience, flexible schedule
Apply now and take pride in keeping our school shining! For more information contact Bill Witynski at witynskib@myflorence.org or 715-528-3217 ext 1101.
