I was a student of Mrs. Kragenbring in my 8-12 grade years. In 10-12 grade, I was struggling in school. I’m not sure of a reason for this, perhaps apathy towards school. I was asked if I would like to join a program called “On-Track”. It was a combined class of English and Social Studies, and was presented in a way where students could in some ways shape how they learned.

There were many parts to this class, some guest speakers, some field trips but always led by Chris in a kind, caring, loving manner. She cared deeply for all of her students no matter how difficult or challenging they were and it showed.

One of our guest speakers was a retired US Army 82nd airborne chaplain named Delbert Kuehl. From the time he spoke to our class, I befriended Delbert and he became my mentor of sorts, and while he would tell me stories of the war.

I have always had a love of history, specifically US military history. I was encouraged to follow this interest and during class time. I then volunteered at the Douglas County Historical Society, where I researched and catalogued donated military items. My interest grew, and soon I was interviewing veterans from many eras and adding their stories to the Society’s Archives.

After high school I continued this pursuit and have personally interviewed an estimated 100 veterans from many eras, some of these stories had never been told by the veterans.

Now 15 years since graduating high school, I am an RN, and serve people with mental health and chemical dependency issues.

Over the years I had been invited to speak to classes on US history specifically WWII. Many invitations have come from Chris and I always jumped at the chance to talk to young people about this dramatic time in world history.

Even more recently I was asked to talk to students about my professional career in helping men and women with addiction, as some of her students have family or themselves have struggled with chemical use. In doing this I shared my own personal struggles. 

This among many other reasons, I feel so passionate about Chris and her pursuit of a new choice for students in Alexandria. The ability for free and open thought and conversation about any topic is key to critical thinking and learning.