Wayland Academy's 2024 Year in Review

Here’s a look back at 12 months and 12 of our favorite moments. Although, it was hard to pick. Really, really hard.

January: 2^nd Semester Begins

Nothing compares to the energy of a bustling campus after a long break. January brought everyone back together, refreshed and ready to start a new chapter of growing in knowledge and character.

In 2024, we kicked off 2^nd semester with Reorientation, featuring fun activities like Kahoot and field games in Janik Field House. It’s great to start a new semester and a new year in such an awesome way!

February: Culture Convention

February marked the return of our first Culture Convention, a revitalization of the Global Fair which began in 2003. It was incredible to see our students and other community members share their cultures with pride.

Participants highlighted their heritage through food, dance, and traditional attire. Highlights included a fashion show and cultural performances showcasing the beauty of global diversity and appreciation. We can’t wait for next year’s event!

March: Spring Break Adventures

While we missed our students on campus over Spring Break, it took some of them beyond the classroom! Many of our language students traveled to Germany and Spain, offering immersive cultural experiences.

German language students, led by Mr. Heimerl, visited cities like Wolfsburg, Cologne, Hannover, and Berlin. They explored landmarks like the Phaeno Museum, Volkswagen Headquarters, and the Cologne Cathedral while practicing their language skills.

Meanwhile, Spanish students traveled to Barcelona, Zaragoza, Madrid, Granada, Sevilla, Córdoba, and Málaga. They utilized the language skills they learned in class while visiting museums and historical sites and participating in cultural activities, such as a flamenco dance show.

April: Prom

April brought an unforgettable night of enchantment and tons of dancing with Prom! The 2024 theme was Midnight Garden Masquerade, and Lindsay Gym got a touch of magic with twinkling lights and hanging florals.

Students dressed to impress and danced the night away with music by DJ Mando. The lovely décor, lively atmosphere, and memories made make this prom an unforgettable highlight of the year.

May: Commencement

May culminated in a heartfelt celebration of our graduating seniors. The few days leading up to Commencement were packed with events, from Senior Chapel, the Spring Ensemble Concert, to Honors Convocation. The Commencement ceremony itself was a bittersweet gathering—while we were sad to say goodbye to the class of 2024, we celebrated their accomplishments and looked forward to their bright futures.  

June: The Big Red Classic

This June, we hosted our 3^rd annual Big Red Classic at Old Hickory Golf Course. It was a day to remember, filled with sunshine, friendly competition, and, of course, lots of golf.

All proceeds went to the Academy Fund, supporting our students’ educational experience. It was a great event with a great cause—improving academic and student life here at Wayland. We’re already counting down to next year’s tournament!

July: Summer Experience

In July, we welcomed 30 middle and high school students for our second Summer Experience—two weeks packed full of learning, discovery, and fun. Some academic highlights include custom-designing, building, and launching 3D-printed rockets, creating their own short film in the Video Production Workshop class, and learning how math is truly fun through games like Battleship and graphing calculator design.

Many experiences were happening outside the classroom. From trips to Devil’s Lake and Milwaukee to fun on-campus activities like constructing boats out of cardboard boxes and plenty of bonfires. It was a memorable blend of learning and adventure.

August: Orientation!

After a long, quiet summer, Wayland finally became whole again with the arrival of our students.

The first few days of Orientation are always filled with so much excitement—meeting new students, reuniting with friends, and participating in all sorts of engaging activities around campus.

Orientation is a moment we look forward to every year, all summer long!

September: Connection Weekend

Connection Weekend was a combination of bonding, fun, and dedication, which is why it’s our top memory of September. Students kicked off the weekend by helping out around campus and in Beaver Dam through community service, doing tasks like painting, gardening, and cleaning.

The following day, students embarked on class trips. Each grade took different trips, from completing ropes courses to exploring State Street in Madison, WI.

October: Homecoming Weekend

Homecoming is always a wonderful celebration, but this year’s was especially remarkable; it was our 100^th Homecoming!  Alumni, current students, family, and employees came together to celebrate a century of Big Red pride. The weekend was packed with exciting activities, from our pep rally to alumni reunions. It was a great way to honor our history, community, and the shared love so many have for Wayland.

November: Fall Musical

Months of hard work came to life in this year’s annual fall musical. This year’s production, Willy Wonka, brought lots of laughs and enthusiastic applause. From the witty performances and wonderful songs, it was clear that our students and staff poured their hearts into every detail. Bravo to everyone involved!

December: Lessons and Carols

The Festival of Lessons and Carols is about more than the meaning of the service—it’s about the community coming together and celebrating something our school has shared for the past 60 years. The chapel was filled with the harmonious sounds of carols, heartfelt readings, and the warmth of tradition. It’s a time to reflect, connect, and embrace the spirit of community as one Wayland family.

Here's to an incredible 2024 and an even brighter 2025. We can’t wait for another year of learning, growing, and thriving together.