Mr. Macord Johnson, Principal
Grades 5-8
Education: Bachelor of Science in Education from Martin Luther College with a minor in Science
Favorite thing about being a teacher: Helping with whatever they need
Favorite Bible Passage: “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will it not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” I Corinthians 10:13
Hobbies: bird hunting, water skiing, and flying
Contact Mr. Johnson: 507-317-3653 cell
email: Macord.Johnson@prairielutheran.us
Mr. Randy Ristow, Athletic Director
Grades 5-8
Education: Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Dr. Martin Luther College with a Science concentration and Biology minor
Favorite thing about being a teacher: Helping students to learn about being a better Christian person through life lessons. Students’ “Aha” moments are also awesome to see.
Favorite Bible Passage: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8
Hobbies: snowmobiling, motorcycling, enjoying time with my family
Contact Mr. Ristow: randy.ristow@prairielutheran.us
Mr. Mark Leitheiser
Grades 5-8
Education: graduated from Detroit Lakes High School in 1978 and attended the University of Jamestown (ND) where I received my teaching and coaching degrees in 1982 I earned my Master of Arts in education degree from St. Mary’s University in 2012.
Favorite thing about being a teacher: I enjoy watching boys and girls become young men and women. Teachers have a unique role in students’ lives and I have always felt privileged to be a part of their development. Teaching academics is an important part of what we do but nothing compares to the feeling of helping nurture students’ lives.
Favorite Bible Passages: Isaiah 40: 31. “Those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength . . .” I love its lyrical flow and the use of simile with the wings of an eagle. It also reminds me that my faith needs renewal every day and the only way to find it is to wait upon the Lord. This verse helps me relax and gives me hope.
Hobbies: I don’t have any real exciting hobbies. I love to spend time putzing around in the woods where I find peace in nature and doing yard work for relaxation. I do some of my best thinking on my trusty lawnmower! I also like to read biographies and to ride my bike for exercise. Other than that, I simply spend time with friends and family.
Contact Mr. Leitheiser: Cell: 507-276-5349
email: mark.leitheiser@prairieluthera
Mrs. Rachel Markgraf
Grades 3-4
Education: Bachelor of Science in Education from Martin Luther College with a minor in Social Studies (2013)
Favorite thing about being a teacher: I enjoy getting to know each student over the two years that I have them in my class. It’s fun to see them grow and learn more about their Savior.
Favorite Bible Passage: “But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31
Hobbies: cooking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends
Contact Mrs. Markgraf: rachelmarkgraf@prairielutheran.us
Mrs. Connie Weilage
Grades 1-2
Education: Bachelor of Science in Education from Martin Luther College and continuing education
Favorite thing about being a teacher: Lifelong learning with students about Jesus, Our Savior, with endless, creative ways to learn.
Favorite Bible Passage: [Jesus said,] “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
Hobbies: be with family and friends, photography, outside activities, and books
Contact Mrs. Weilage: connieweilage@prairielutheran.us
Mrs. Katherine Wenner
Kindergarten
Education: Martin Luther College
Favorite thing about being a teacher: Sharing the love of Jesus & reading new books!
Favorite Bible Passage: I can do All things through Christ who gives me strength. Phil. 4:13
Hobbies: spending time with family, baking, gardening, watching movies
Contact Mrs. Wenner: katherinewenner@prairielutheran.us
Mrs. Naomi Evenson
PreK 3 and 4
Education: Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Dr. Martin Luther College with an emphasis in Language Arts
Favorite thing about being a teacher: Hearing students say how God loves us SO much, retell Bible stories, and sing to Him wholeheartedly!
Favorite Bible Passage: “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil. 4:7.
Hobbies: spending time with family, reading, cooking, swimming
Contact: naomievenson@prairielutheran.