Hi, my name is Cathy Venzke.  I grew up near Colby, WI on a dairy farm owned by my parents.  My parents recently retired from the family farm with about a 70 head of cattle.  I am the second oldest of 11 children.  All of my brothers and sisters still currently reside in WI.  I am married to my husband, Mike.  We have been married for 22 years.  My husband operates his own concrete business, WE DO CONSTRUCTION.   Together we have three daughters; Alicia (22), Cailyn (19) and Autumn (17).  My family and I love the outdoors.  We love to camp on Soo Lake near Phillips, WI.  We enjoy swimming, tubing, skiing, kayaking, four-wheeling, fishing and hunting.  My family have two dogs, both German Short-haired. Their names are Georgie and Penny. They love to run and bird hunt. 

 I was hired as a special education paraprofessional at Medford Area Senior High in the fall of 2007 and continued that position for 9 years. I pursue my teaching degree from Western Governors University, graduated in 2016, and then my position became Special Education Teacher at MASH.  I have made a change and love teaching at Medford's Alternative High School, Raider Academy. I completed my MASTERS Degree in May of 2024 in At-Risk and Alternative Education from Marian University.

https://www.marianuniversity.edu/news/a-teacher-takes-a-leap-of-faith/ 

More about me...I am someone who likes to try and stay humble, be kind and spread joy.  I am compassionate to other peoples needs.  I can lend a good listening ear when someone needs it as well.  I try to be simple, keeping in mind that less is more in our world today.  I like to bring awareness to others about certain topics, and I love learning!! I believe a smile goes a long ways. I am genuine.  I am outgoing and friendly.  I am self-driven, motivated and a go-getter.  I am an encourager and supporter, believing that everyone can succeed, if they work for it.