The Mineral Point Kiwanis Club honored its February Students of the Month at its meeting Tuesday, February 6.
The students, who are members of the Senior class, are selected for this honor through a voting process by staff at the high school, and their biographies are written by themselves.
Brady Radtke
Brady is the youngest child of Chris and Keri Radtke. He was born in Dodgeville in 2006. Brady has one older brother, Blake, who is a Sophomore at UW-Platteville.
Brady grew up just outside of town and has been attending Mineral Point Schools since preschool. He is a current member of Skills USA, is a Sources of Strength Peer Leader, and has been a member of the math team. Brady was selected as a member of the National Honor Society and this will be his second year as a member. He has also served three years in the Mineral Point High School student government.
Other extracurricular activities that Brady is involved in include playing baseball and basketball. Brady has been voted as captain of the baseball team by his teammates for the past two years. He tries to lead his teammates with his actions, but also with constant words of encouragement. He is excited to help his teammates succeed during the rest of the basketball season and leading into the baseball season.
Brady has a lifetime interest in the outdoors. This includes hunting, fishing, and helping on his grandparents’ family farm. This enjoyment of the outdoors, along with an interest in math and science, have sparked his enthusiasm for pursuing a future career that combines these areas.
After high school, Brady plans on going to college at UW-Platteville. He will be pursuing an Environmental Engineering degree. He hopes to contribute to keeping the environment safe and healthy for future generations. Brady would like to congratulate his fellow classmate Addison Ryser on being named student of the month. He would like to thank his teachers for pushing him to be the best student he could be and his coaches for encouraging him to reach his full potential as an athlete and leader. Also, he would like to acknowledge his parents for the endless support they have given him throughout the years. Finally, Brady would like to thank the Kiwanis for this luncheon and the hard work they do in our community.
“Brady Radtke has been a smiley, happy boy since kindergarten. We can always count on Brady for a smile! I appreciate his bright, hard working attitude and his kind demeanor towards all. Brady has always been a great student and one who loves a little adventure in learning. He knows how to incorporate fun in his studies. Brady, I know you will go far in life – keep that wonderful smile and sense of adventure throughout all the ups and downs of life! Your courageous attitude towards knowledge will be a bonus for you. Best wishes as you finish out your Senior year and explore into the world! Your future is bright!” ~ Mrs. Jill McGuire, Kindergarten Teacher
“Brady Radtke is an exceptional person. I have observed his unwavering commitment to his academics, extracurricular activities, and community involvement. He has a strong sense of empathy and compassion, and truly thinks of others before himself. The majority (if not all) of Brady’s character traits are innate to who he is at his core – selfless, service-oriented, and genuinely kind. Brady’s impact on MPHS is felt in many spaces and we will miss the impact he makes by being a part of our school. I truly appreciate the role model you are for so many of our students. Thank you, Brady, for sharing your thoughtfulness, positivity, and hope with us. Enjoy the rest of your Senior year!” ~ Mrs. Erika Brunson, Middle/High School Counselor
“Brady is the epitome of a quiet leader whose influence permeates many corners of our school community. His gentle, yet determined, approach to leadership sets him apart, inspiring those around him to strive for excellence. Whether Brady is mentoring peers, leading by example in the classroom, lending a helping hand without seeking recognition, or leading his team on the court or field, Brady consistently demonstrates his unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. His quiet confidence and dedication to service make him a beacon of inspiration for all who know him, earning him the well-deserved title of Student of the Month. Congratulations, Brady, on this well-earned recognition.” ~ Mrs. Cindi Nothem, High School Math Teacher
“Brady, the thing I appreciate the most about you is your patience, as you consistently demonstrate your leadership ability daily through your actions and respect for others. You are a great example for your peers and underclassmen due to your overall positive attitude and the fact that you put others before yourself. You have a very bright future ahead of yourself, as you are driven to succeed and are willing to tackle any challenge you face. Congratulations and best wishes as you take on your next adventure.” ~ Mr. Matt Austin, High School Principal
“Congratulations Brady! I am so proud to have the honor of writing a message to you to celebrate your Kiwanis Student of the Month recognition. Babe Ruth once said, ‘It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up.’ You have often used this quote to inspire yourself over the years and it embodies who you have become as a young adult. Everyone who gets the chance to know you values this most about you. You work hard, even when others may give up or give in. You have tackled health challenges, taken increasingly challenging classes, played against bigger, stronger opponents, but always found a way to shine and succeed at a level that amazes us at each turn. This is simply because your work ethic and heart are bigger than any challenge. You have always been headstrong, strong-willed or resolute… which I looked up to be direct synonyms of the word stubborn. It serves you well. The next chapter of life will no doubt have new challenges, but don’t forget to look between the challenges for the home run moments. We’ll be cheering you on!” ~ Love, Mom (Mrs. Keri Radtke, 2nd Grade Teacher)
“‘Individual commitment to a group effort – that is what makes a team work, a company, work, a society work, a civilization work.’ – Vince Lombardi. Brady Radtke is the ideal team member. He always puts the greater good first and continually does this with a smile. This quality will make all the difference in your future, Brady! Your commitment to school, sports, family, and work will open many doors for you. You have been a joy to work with for the last four years. I can’t wait to see what lies ahead of you, Sweet Boy!” ~ Mrs. Kristin Staver, High School English Teacher
Addison Ryser
Addison Ryser is the youngest child of Robyn Oberfoell and Jake Ryser. She has two siblings, Alex and Hannah. Alex is a heavy equipment operator in Madison, and Hannah is a student at Madison Area Technical College. She also has three step siblings – Spencer, Logan, and Alexis.
Addison moved to Mineral Point when she was 10 years old from Blanchardville where she attended Pecatonica Elementary School before she moved to the Mineral Point Unified School District and joined Mrs. Lifka Bennett’s 5th grade class. She participates in Key Club, Spanish Club, Sources of Strength Peer Leadership, and was inducted into the National Honor Society last spring. In her Sophomore year, she was proud to be named Best All-Around Student along with another one of her classmates, and in her Junior year, she was elected a Homecoming class representative by her classmates.
A very important aspect of Addison’s high school career is Pointer Media. Addison is the producer of our school’s live daily news and the photographer for sports games and school-related events. Pointer Media has grown significantly throughout her years in high school and she is very fortunate that she was able to watch this organization grow into what it is now.
Although Addison does not play sports now, she played softball, basketball, and volleyball until her Freshman year before a neck injury. She has been a dancer at Betty Hayes School of Dance for 13 years and this will be her last year dancing, now at Studio V Dance. Addison has been a nanny for the past two summers and continues to work with many other families on occasion. She currently works at the Pointer Kids Club after school.
After high school, Addison plans to attend UW-Platteville to pursue a high school education degree in mathematics. Addison would like to congratulate her classmate, Brady Radtke, for being named Student of the Month alongside her. She would like to thank her amazing teachers as, without them, she would not have become the student she is today. She would also like to thank the school staff for voting for her and Brady to be honored today by the Kiwanis. She would very much like to thank her parents for the unwavering love and support they have given her throughout her life. She is very grateful for all that they have done for her throughout the years. Lastly, she would like to thank the Kiwanis for this luncheon and for making lasting differences in our community.
“Addie has been a valuable addition to Pointer Kids Club. She sees what needs to be done and does it without being asked — and the kids love her!” ~ Ms. Mo May-Grimm, Pointer Kids Club Director
“It has been such a pleasure working and learning with you through all of your work in the media program. You are one of the original members of the Media 1 class, and the work you and your classmates have done has helped the program become what it is today. You have truly been a ‘go-to’ person who shows up and makes things happen, and you always do so with a smile on your face! The skills you have developed (you truly have surpassed the teacher), your work ethic, and your love of learning new things will take you far. I’m so proud of all you have accomplished and how you put yourself out there to give back to our schools. You have everything it takes to be a great teacher. It touches my heart to hear my grandsons mention things they have worked on with you at the elementary school. I wish you the best of luck in all you do!” ~ Mrs. Kris McCoy, Middle/High School Librarian
“Addie Ryser is a kind girl with ambition for greatness. Addie’s willingness to always volunteer and work with the students at the elementary shows her motivation to go above and beyond normal expectations. Addie, congratulations on becoming Student of the Month and best wishes as you finish out your Senior year!” ~ Mrs. Jill McGuire, Kindergarten Teacher
“Addison Ryser makes the world a better and brighter place. She has the unique ability to positively impact every space she walks into with her consistent kindness, selflessness, and willingness to help others. She displays a level of altruism and humility that I am not sure I have ever seen before, and I am sure she doesn’t even know it – it’s just who she is. She is wise and funny; quiet and confident. And she can always be relied on to help with the endless media projects or just to share a smile and sweet greeting. Thank you, Addie, for teaching us all about the power of kindness and positivity. Your impact will be missed in the coming years, and I am grateful to know you.” ~ Mrs. Erika Brunson, Middle/High School Counselor
“Addie Ryser is a very positive student who works hard every day to do well. She is always building others up around her, and contributes much to our friendly school atmosphere. Her motivation and perseverance will help her to succeed in future endeavors.” ~ Mr. Ryne Ponsler, High School Spanish Teacher
“Addie has been a great help to me as a photographer for school activities. There are times when life gets in the way with illness or other commitments, and Addie has been more than willing to help me out when she is able by sending me photos to help tell our school story. Since I haven’t figured out how to clone myself yet, this has been very beneficial! She also asks great questions, always willing to learn and listen — qualities, along with her friendly personality, that will take her wherever she wants to go.” ~ Ms. Joelle Doye, Communications Director
“Congratulations Addie on being selected as a Student of the Month for February. The one word that comes to mind when asked to describe you and your ability would be the word dynamic. You have such a unique talent within media and as a leader. Your ability to stay focused, work hard, and problem-solve will serve you well as you take the next step on your journey within education. You have been and continue to be an outstanding, kind, and caring individual and have been a wonderful role model for underclassmen. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you as you chase your dreams. Best of luck.” ~ Mr. Matt Austin, High School Principal
“Congratulations, Addie, on your recognition as Student of the Month. With a heart full of passion and a mind filled with knowledge, Addie embodies the spirit of an exemplary future educator. Addie’s dedication to learning, and her genuine desire to inspire others, sets her apart. Whether it’s lending a helping hand to classmates or going the extra mile to assist teachers, Addie consistently demonstrates the qualities of a compassionate leader. With each step she takes, Addie brings us closer to a brighter future in education. Today, Addie, we celebrate your achievements and eagerly anticipate the positive impact you will undoubtedly make as you pursue your dreams of becoming an educator. Keep shining, Addie!” ~ Mrs. Cindi Nothem, High School Math Teacher
“American author Oliver Napoleon Hill wrote, ‘Go the extra mile, and opportunity will follow you.’ This quote doesn’t do Miss Addison justice. She continually goes way beyond the extra mile. Because of this, I confidently say that Addie was born to be a teacher! Addie has been my right-hand man since she was a Freshman. The thought of replacing Addie is incomprehensible. She has truly been in the top 5% of students I have had the privilege of working with throughout my 30+ year teaching career. Addie, I will miss you more than I have words next year. I know you will continue to make a difference and change the world! Good luck, Sweet Girl! Remember Staverland is always open for you!” ~ Mrs. Kristin Staver, High School English Teacher
(Radtke and Ryser photos by Lifka Bennett)