WELCOME!
Ascension Lutheran School
Sarasota, Florida
David Zank
We are honored to have you explore Ascension Lutheran School as a learning environment for your child and family. The decisions regarding your child’s education, both spiritual and academic, are among the most important a parent can make. We're excited to walk with you through this process and look forward to talking with you in person about Ascension Lutheran. I'm sure you'll discover that our Sarasota, Florida school offers a Christ-centered, nationally accredited education with highly supportive, engaged teachers and small class sizes.
As Christian parents and teachers, our focus is one - the upbringing of children so that they can know and love their Savior, Jesus Christ, and in turn share that love with others. Christ’s love flows through everything we do at Ascension, whether it be the respect shown among teachers and students in the classroom, or the kindness shown among students at recess. It is to Christ alone that we give praise and glory as we work together in equipping the children of our church and community for *life* through a Christ-centered education of excellence.
In Humble Service,
David Zank
MEET OUR ASCENSION FAMILY OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATORS
David Zank
Principal
Joshua 1:9 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
My Education and Experience:
Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Martin Luther College, New Ulm, MN – 1997
Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Administration, Concordia University in
Mequon, WI – 2019.
Fox Valley Lutheran High School, Appleton, WI; Emergency Teacher – 1 year
Immanuel Lutheran, Waukegan, IL; Principal/Teacher/AD – 12 years
Friedens Lutheran School/Kenosha Lutheran Academy, Kenosha, WI; Vice Principal/Teacher/AD
– 12 years
My Classroom Approach:
Everything needs to be Christ-centered from curriculum to relationships. All students need to
realize that they are all redeemed children of God. I strive to build relationships with students
and families. Students tend to learn better from teachers that they like. They need to know
clearly that I love them and care about all of their successes and failures and will support them.
Every day is a clean slate and a fresh start. I am old school with my teaching views. The basics
are the most import. As a coach I would never teach my team plays if they didn’t know the
basic rules and fundamentals of the game. The same applies to the classroom. I have mainly
been a religion, history, & civics teacher. I feel that a student shouldn’t just learn the material,
but I must be able to help them apply it to their lives. Two most important documents that
students will learn about in my classes are; The Holy Bible and The United States Constitution.
More About Me:
I was born in Juneau, Wisconsin half way between Madison and Milwaukee. My wife Michelle
and I have been married for 29 years. She grew up in Appleton, Wisconsin. We have been
blessed with 3 daughters. Madalyn is married, lives in Madison and is a Marketing Director for
the University of Wisconsin Alumni Association. Emily is a high school Biology teacher and will
be serving this year at DSA in Doral. Olivia is a flight attendant for American Airlines based in
Miami. My favorite things to do are spend time with my children and vacation with Michelle.
We are both beach people and Florida was our yearly stop. I also enjoy singing, reading,
politics, card games, and any sport. In my old age golf is what I play the most.
Pastor Martin Mielke
Church / School Pastor
Deuteronomy 33:27
“The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.
My Education and Experience:
BA from Northwestern College, Watertown, WI - 1993
MDiv. from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, Mequon, WI - 1997
Ongoing education through Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary - 1997 - Present
Vicar: Salem Lutheran Church - East, Milwaukee, WI - 1995-1996
WELS Milwaukee Campus Ministry Office Administrator - 1996-1997
Pastor: St. John's Lutheran Church and School - Red Wing, MN - 1997-2004
Red Wing Conference Circuit Pastor - 2000-2004
Pastor: Ascension Lutheran Church and School - 2004 - Present
South Atlantic District - Everglades Conference Secretary - 2005-2009
WELS Worship Planning Coordinator, 'Christ's Love, Our Calling - Year 4 Planning Team - 2011-2013
South Atlantic District - Adult Discipleship Coordinator - 2012-2014
South Atlantic District Praesidium - Secretary / Treasurer - 2014 - Present
Missionary to Paraguay: SoloCristo Mission - Nueva Alianza, Paraguay - 2018 - Present
My Classroom Approach:
I have studied Dr. Jane Vella's Dialogue Education and appreciate much of what she advocates. Education excels when participants feel safe, interested, and challenged. Teaching has become a passion and seeing the light bulb go on for students is a priceless reward!
More About Me:
I was born and raised in Loveland, CO in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The mountains are truly in my blood - it's amazing the perspective on life in God's creation one gains from the top of a 14,000 foot peak. I've been blessed to have seen the world from on top of 3 - Mt. Elbert, Mt. Massive, and Long's Peak. That perspective forever changes a person. I love cars and traveling, spending time outside, and above all spending time with my family. Life moves quickly, so seize the blessings God has in store for you and serve Him with gladness!
Susan Bare
My Education and Experience:
25 + years experience working with preschool children ages 3-5
Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education, College Park, MD
My Classroom Approach:
To provide a Christ-Centered, developmentally appropriate, environment where the children can grow, love, and learn about God, and engage in activities to help them excel in all areas of development.
More About Me:
My husband Jeff, daughter Kayla, and sons Robert and Chris love to go to the movies and eat out!
Preschool Director/
Lead Teacher
Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Brooke Carbon
Kindergarten
Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it."
"This verse is an inspirational reminder to teach children for this world and for the next." - Mrs. Carbon
My Education and Experience:
Ascension Lutheran School: 12 years as a teacher
Teacher at St. John’s in Two Rivers WI and First German in Manitowoc, WI
Bachelor of Science Degree in Education, Martin Luther College
My Classroom Approach:
My goal is to challenge students and watch them grow to their full potential. In doing this, I am also cognizant of the fact that children are individuals with a diversity of needs that periodically need to be met exclusively. I strive to offer a classroom where learning is fun and exciting.
Our classroom is a place where children feel safe and comfortable. I seek to provide an enriching environment full of love and nurture. In this environment, parents and teacher work together on the same team for the benefit of the child.
More About Me:
My husband and I have two children, both having attended Luther Preparatory School in Watertown, WI. We love to travel and entertain. It has always been my dream to live in the beautiful state of Florida. We love it here!
Troy Yerks
1st - 2nd Grade Teacher
John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
My Education and Experience:
Ascension Lutheran School; since 2022
Salem Lutheran School, Milwaukee, WI; 5 years
Wisconsin Lutheran College - adjunct, Milwaukee, WI; 7 years
Christ-St. Peter Lutheran School, Milwaukee, WI; 6 years
Trinity Lutheran Church, Bay CIty, MI; 6 years
Divine Grace Lutheran School, Lake Orion, MI; 4 years
Kyrene School DIstrict, Tempe, AZ; 5 years
Casa Grande School District, Casa Grande, AZ; 4 years
Trinity Lutheran School, Brillion, WI; 2 years
Masters of Elementary Education; Northern Arizona University, 1997
Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education; Dr. Martin Luther College, New Ulm, MN, 1986
My Classroom Approach:
Every student that I am in contact with is a redeemed child of God. Because of this, I interact with each of them as a fellow brother and sister in Christ and feel we are all part of the same family. I view classroom management from the perspective of Love and Logic. Each of my students are individuals at different points along the continuum of education. My job is to guide them in their journey along that continuum. I look forward to our journey together in your child’s education.
More About Me:
I grew up in a small town in Minnesota, Hutchinson. My wife, Cathy, grew up in Flagstaff, Arizona; mountain country. We have been married since 1985. We have 3 children, all married and currently 2 grandchildren! We have thoroughly enjoyed living in many parts of the country, although the actual moving process is not enjoyable! I enjoy being involved in worship and music opportunities here at Ascension Lutheran Church and School. We love to travel and enjoy hiking while on vacation. One of our favorite places to visit is Sedona, AZ. I enjoy house projects, playing the piano and puzzles during intermittent free moments.
Lexi Fischer
3rd - 4th Grade Teacher
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27
In this difficult world God promises to be with us always and bring peace to us in times of trouble.
My Education and Experience:
I went to Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minnesota. I just graduated this past
May 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a minor in Coaching.
My Classroom Approach:
I love sharing God’s Word and I strive to make our classroom an environment where everyone feels comfortable and loved. I believe that every student can learn and succeed. While success may look different for each student I strive to get to know each student and their individual needs to find ways to help them achieve to the best of their abilities. Connecting lessons with real-life applications will help the students prepare for a life of learning and serving wherever God leads them.
More About Me:
I grew up in a tiny town in Minnesota called Courtland which is just 10 minutes from New Ulm where I attended grade school, high school, and college. I grew up with three brothers and spent most of my childhood exploring outdoors or playing sports with them. I played just about every sport growing up and continued playing softball and golf in college. In my free time, I enjoy walking, reading, biking, and making cards.
Cassandra Anklam
5th - 6th Grade Teacher
Hymn #790 Day by Day
"Day by Day, your mercies, Lord attend me, bringing comfort to my anxious soul. Day by day, the blessings, Lord, you send me draw me nearer to my heavenly goal."
"This hymn is what I can easily find comfort in, knowing that God is always there to help me and guide each and every day."
- Miss Anklam
My Education and Experience:
I graduated in the spring of 2020 from Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minnesota
and have completed my first teaching school last year(20-21).
My Classroom Approach:
I like my students being allowed to move and feel comfortable. Providing a Christ centered learning environment allows students, to grow academically and in their faith. My goal is to answer questions and encourage students to be inquisitive with their learning. Along with that, I do not like a quiet classroom. Music is played almost the entire day of school at a low volume that can only be heard when everyone is staying on task. I encourage students to ask each other for help on before coming me to allow them social interaction and communication with their peers. With a special emphasis in physical education, I understand the importance of human movement and the need middle school students have for moving around. I do my best to incorporate any movement into the school day so students retain and stay engaged for entire lessons.
More About Me:
I was born and raised in the state of Michigan where my entire family still lives including my five wonderful nieces and one nephew. Besides enjoying all the Florida sunshine and beaches I am one of those people that loves winter and snow! I love exploring new areas and things to do. Playing basketball is one of my all time favorite games to play. I played from fifth grade all through college and still miss playing everyday. In my free time I enjoy practicing photography, biking hiking and finding something new to try.
Philip Fischer
7th - 8th Grade Teacher
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life.
My Education and Experience:
I graduated from DMLC in New Ulm , MN in 1989 with a degree in Elementary Education,
and a minor in science.
I have worked as a business manager for 10 years at Domino’s and Super 8 Motels.
I spent 17 years as a production worker at Kraft Foods in New Ulm holding various positions there.
For the last 11 years I was a production lead for the gearhead area at the Parker Hannifin plant in New Ulm.
My Classroom Approach:
I believe that a Christ centered approach to education is the key. I will keep the Lord’s Word as a top priority in the way I teach. Every child is a child of God. This is a great opportunity for me to spread the joy of knowing my Savior with the children. I want every student to feel accepted and loved for who they are. In our current society, we need to get back to being good people and standing up for what is right. The children are going to learn to use the knowledge that they already have to think critically about current affairs.
More About Me:
I was born in Nebraska and raised in the small town of Lewiston MN. My dad was a pastor at the St. John’s church and my mom taught kindergarten for 40 plus years.
I have one brother, John and a sister, Angie.
I am married to Lisa and we have 4 children together.
Nick, Lexi, Zander, and Zach. They are all great kids and we are proud of them all.
I am a sports fanatic - football, basketball, baseball, and golf. Being from Minnesota I love the Timberwolves, but since I was raised a Packer fan I still cheer for Green Bay.
We have always wanted to live in Florida with all the beaches and warm weather.
Being at Ascension as a teacher is a lifelong dream come true. I look forward to serving and pray that the Lord continues to guide me along my journey.
Beverley Lembke
K-8 Teacher's Aide
Cathy Yerks
Preschool Lead Teacher
My Education and Experience:
Bachelor of science ineducation: Dr. Martin Luther College 1986
St. Peter Lutheran School 1 year
Divine Grace Lutheran School 3 years
Christ St Peter Lutheran school 4 years
Risen Savior 2 years
My Classroom Approach:
What a blessing to be able to teach Jesus' little lambs! In preschool children learn through play and being able to make choices. They have many opportunities to do both in my classroom. I strive to guide them to grow and learn to their potential. Making sure that they feel safe and loved is so important as they begin their education journey.
More About Me:
I grew up in Flagstaff Arizona. My husband Troy and I have been married 39 years. We have 3 grown children and two wonderful grand daughters. I am a dog lover and have an 8 year old Great Dane, Addie Mae. I love gardening and reading in my spare time.
Belkis Bolanos
Preschool Assistant Teacher
My Education and Experience:
Associate of Arts Degree
Business Associate's Degree
FCCPC in early children education
My Classroom Approach:
My approach this year is to have a high degree of communication with children, listen to their comments and to engage in conversations about issues they are experiencing in and out of school. I also keep in touch with parents to understand and communicate behaviors. I trust that the Lord and Holy Spirit guide me with every action I take. I “trust on God, our Father, first.”
More About Me:
I love to travel! I also love to invest my time with friends and family, and participate in multiple athletic activities.
“To help people that recquire it is not only a necessity,but brings about great sastisfaction.” “The only worthy autograph of a man is he who leaves written with his works.”
- José Martí, International Cuban Poet
"These words inspire me because the idea of practicing what you preach is an important belief for me. I want to leave artifacts of my teachings in the children; something that they will retain for the rest of their lives and hopefully apply to broaden their horizons."
- Ms. Bolanos
Kristin Johnson
My Education and Experience:
My Classroom and Office Approach:
More About Me:
Preschool Assistant Teacher
Denise Mielke
Office Admin.
Psalm 27:1
"The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid?"
My Education and Experience:
Associate Degree in Finance from Madison Area Technical College
40-Hour Introductory Child Care Training
My Classroom and Office Approach:
My philosophy of education is to strive to make things run as efficiently and organized as possible whether I am in the office or the classroom. I believe this enables both students and teachers to excel in their own unique ways. I work to the best of my God-given abilities to assist in the office and helping the teachers with the students in the classroom.
More About Me:
I was born and raised in Wisconsin. I met my husband, Pastor Mielke, in 1991 and we were married in 1995. In 1997 we moved to Red Wing, MN where he was assigned his first call as a pastor. In 2004 God led my husband to accept a call to serve here at Ascension in Sarasota. We have been blessed with four wonderful children - Sierra (Jonah) Schlomer, Jarrett (Leah), Jayden and Martin. In my free time I enjoy taking walks, playing games, baking, traveling and spending time with my family.
“The Christian setting is beautiful in the way that chapel, Bible memory, and Christian concepts are woven into their day. This is a wonderful atmosphere for children to learn and play."
