Our Story
In 1999, as state budgets tightened, as more families in the area had need, business, community and school district members came together to create an organization that would help ensure school, student and teacher successes well into the future. These leaders saw a need to support teachers in their classrooms, students with needed materials and opportunities in school-based programming, and the schools with projects that added to the educational experience and wellbeing of their students, and the health of the community as a whole. In 2001, they were able to present their first school grant.
In the twenty-plus years to follow, WSF has grown. It continues to build relationships between teachers, students, parents, administrators, businesses and the Wausau community – all with the same purpose – to ensure that all students in the district are provided the same opportunities to learn, grow and be successful in their education and their lives.
Learn more about the programming and opportunities available with WSF as you browse through our website. We invite you to become part of our childrens’ success stories as a contributor as well.
Our Founding Board:
Ginger Alden
Christine Bremer
Gene Davis
John Dudley
Kathy Foley
Jim Force
Christine Freiberg
Gary Freels
Tom Mack
Sarah Miller
Linda Prehn
Gerry Riskey
Chuck Skurka
Jean Tehan
Doris Ulrich
Randy Westgate
Bob Wolff
Executive Directors:
Founding Society Members
- A-1 Construction
- Dr. Albert
- Judd Alexander Foundation
- Associated Bank
- Christine Bremer
- Manson Insurance
- Miron Construction
- Riiser Co.
- Riverview Construction
- US Bank
Heritage Family Fund
Established in 2016, this endowment fund is held for Reach for the Stars grants that enable Wausau School District teachers to go above and beyond the curriculum to reach and engage students. Those who helped start this endowment include:
4-Generation Legacy of Wausau Students:
- Dr. Delos Prehn (1914) – Dr. Donald Prehn (1944) – Dr. Frederick Prehn (1975) – and children Augusta (2005), Frederick, Jr (2007), Aurora (2009) and Harrison (2010)
- Harry Heinemann, Sr. – Harry Heinemann, Jr – Joseph, Rebecca and Virginia Heinemann-Schmitt – and children Blakney and Arabella Schmitt
- Karl Mantei (1930) – Grace Manthei (1956) – Lisa Atwood (1980) – Emily Streich (2006)