MADISON – Cynthia Rettler, bookkeeper for the Tri-County Area School District, is the recipient of the $2,000 Dr. Bambi Statz Academic Scholarship, sponsored by Performance Services. Rettler is currently pursuing her Master of Business Administration degree through University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. When she graduates, she will be the first licensed business manager the Tri-County Area School District has ever had.
She grew up in Hancock, Wisconsin, where her family farmed. She was actively involved in 4-H and FFA growing up, showing livestock throughout the state. Rettler graduated from the Tri-County Area School District in 2006 before getting her bachelor’s degree in business administration and a minor in psychology in 2012 from the University of Wisconsin – Steven’s Point. After working for the Waushara County Zoning and Land Conservation, Rettler discovered the joys of working for the public sector. She has two kids and operates a 200+ head cattle business on her family farm, raising beef cattle and feeding all biproducts from other local farms.
“I am currently working on my master’s degree while working full time, being mom to my two littles and everything with two or four legs they bring home,” Rettler said. “I plan to stay at Tri-County Area School District so my kids can go to a small-town school like I did.”
This scholarship is presented to an individual who is currently working toward a degree and certification in school business management in Wisconsin. Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited university graduate program in Wisconsin leading toward initial 08 Certification.
The $2,000 scholarship is in recognition of Dr. Bambi Statz’s contributions to the school business management profession and is fully funded by Performance Services. Rettler was recognized during the 2024 Spring Conference in the Wisconsin Dells on May 17, 2024.
The WASBO Foundation matching funds for this scholarship is made possible by donations, WASBO Service Affiliate Sponsorships, WASBO Foundation Scholarship Golf and Bike Fundraisers and other Foundation revenue-generating activities. WASBO provides professional development for school business staff, fosters a network of support, and advocates for funding that ensures outstanding educational opportunities for all children in Wisconsin.
