Press Release:

August 6, 2007

MELROSE PARK 'S WALTHER LUTHERAN UPS ACADEMIC ASSETS FOR FALL 2006 START

New Walther Lutheran faculty members (left to right): Jim Craven, Director of Curriculum and Faculty Development, Religion Deptment Chair; Malory Voss, Englishj teacher and winter cheerleading coach; Dave Zemke, Athletic Director

WALTHER LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL ADDS ADMINSTRATORS, TEACHING STAFF

“Across the nation Walther has a really good reputation,” explained Jim Craven, Walther Lutheran High School's new Director of Curriculum and Faculty Development. “I don't think Walther necessarily realizes that.” What Mr. Craven may not realize is that he, himself, is partly responsible for the increased visibility of Walther as a model for Lutheran education throughout the United States. “Jim brings a wealth of experience to Walther in curriculum leadership and classroom instruction. The positive impact he will provide will benefit students for many years to come,” stated Principal Stephen Zielke, as he introduced the new administrator, along with other new additions to the teaching and coaching staffs. “We are also pleased to announce that Malory Voss has been extended a one year contract to serve as an English teacher,” he continued. “In addition to her classroom duties, Miss Voss will serve as head cheerleading coach during basketball season.”

Walther's Executive Director Don Gillingham welcomed Dave Zemke to the Bronco Athletic Department. “Dave is from one of the most prominent families in the history of Walther. An early retirement from industry has made it possible for him to accept our Athletic Director position. Dave will work to provide our coaches and athletes with a level of support that has never been possible with part time staffing.” Gillingham was also enthusiastic about the other new faculty members. “Jim Craven is one of the most important additions to our staff in many years,” he emphasized. “I am extremely happy that we have bee able to attract a man with his intellect and experience to stand next to our faculty as they continue to reach for their fullest potential. Malory brings a new base of experiences to our kids. Her commitment to excellence in writing will pay off in major dividends for Walther students.”

Jim Craven, while native to Cincinnati, served at public and Lutheran schools in Chicago, Aurora, Park Ridge and Racine, Wisconsin, before a 13 year stint as a teacher and administrator in Ocala, Florida. In addition to his administrative duties, he will serve as the chairperson of Walther's Department of Religion. He is actively involved in coordinating a new program of community service for the entire Walther student body. “I look forward to getting my job done and I hope to have some fun doing it,” he said. “If you have a sense of humor, we can get along.”

Malory Voss returns to secondary English teaching after a brief stint in early childhood education. She has worked at several schools in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and is glad to return to the Chicago area, where she spent her elementary and high school years at Walther's Private School League rival, Timothy Christian. “I'm coaching the cheerleaders, so I promise to wear green and cheer for the Walther Broncos,” she whispered with a smile.

Dave Zemke views his new position as Walther Athletic Director as a kind of coming home. “Walther really is in my blood,” he explained. “I've been involved with Walther on so many different levels – student, teacher, parent, board member and even chairman of Walther's Board of Directors. It's good to be able to come back here.” His recent retirement from a position in the waste management industry is a return to his roots at a coach and educator. He previously held teaching and coaching positions at Walther and Chicago's Luther North High School.

“The new school year always brings exciting changes. I'm especially pleased this year to welcome these dynamic teachers to our faculty,” concluded Zielke. Walther Lutheran High School offers a college preparatory curriculum with a well-rounded program of academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities in a faith enriching environment. Call 708.344.0404 or visit us Walther.com for additional information about the school, which is located at 900 Chicago Ave. in Melrose Park, Illinois.

Press Release contact: Lori Solyom, Public Information Coordinator