German Teacher

World Languages

hderidder@mcpasd.k12.wi.us

My journey with German began in middle school, meaning German has been a part of my life for approximately 91 years. During that time, I have tried on various occasions to quit German, being told it was unrelated to my future plans. But every time I quit German, German found its way back to me. I eventually realized that there is a part of me I am only able to access when I speak German, and that my German speaking self is an indispensable part of my identity.

I majored in German at the University of Michigan and au paired just outside of Vienna, where I also took classes. More recently I earned my M.Ed in World Language Instruction, and joined the team at MCPASD. This is my 4th year in the district and I’ve taught at all of our secondary buildings in that time. This school year I become a full time German Teacher at MHS, and I couldn’t be happier.

Fast Facts:

• Age: 103

• Number of gray hairs: innumerable

• Favorite German word: Schadenfreude!

• Favorite German Speaking Place: Gimmelwald, Switzerland

• Favorite Student: ALL of them

• Best Friend: Jerry der Baer

Why do I believe students should join German Club?

1. Um, why wouldn’t they?

2. Toilet paper Lederhosen. Need I say more?

3. In a school of 2400, German Club is home.

The major goal of the German Club is to build community and a sense of belonging while having fun participating in activities centering around German culture. Basically, German Club is full of wonderful humans and is a place where everyone belongs. Come get your weird on!

German Teacher

World Languages

lvogel@mcpasd.k12.wi.us

I have been learning German since I was a freshman in High School and I continued in my college years at UW-La Crosse. Originally, I didn't plan to keep learning German in college but I missed it too much and ended up as a German Education major.

During my studies at UW-La Crosse, I had the fantastic opportunity to study abroad in 2019. I studied at the Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg in Niedersachsen, in northwestern Germany. Studying abroad is an amazing opportunity that I cannot recommend enough! In addition to my study abroad experience, I spent 9 months as a Fulbright Austria English Teaching Assistant. I lived in Vienna and worked in Hollabrunn, Lower Austria.

My favorite word in German is "innere Schweinhund."

German club is for everyone and anyone! We have something for everyone: food, games, culture, friendship, and a sense of community! Join today!

German Club Mascot

World Languages

mhsjerryclub2022@gmail.com

Originally gifted to Frau DeRidder as a bribe by the OGs in 7th grade German at Glacier, Jerry has become a beloved class and club mascot and is an indispensable member of our community.

Jerry has traveled the globe, including taking a honeymoon and a COVID getaway planned by students, but happily calls the German classroom at MHS home. There Jerry lives with his partner, Essen, former partner Karen and the various Jerry babies.

Follow Jerry on Instagram @jerry.der.baer