Trinity Lutheran School in Merrill will welcome three new teachers to the staff when classes begin this Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024. Mr. Bennett Reisler will be the 8th grade homeroom teacher and teach middle school social studies and religion, Mrs. Julia Arntson will be the fifth grade homeroom teacher and teach middle school science and art, and Mrs. Lisa Johnson will be the new kindergarten teacher.
Reisler is a graduate of Concordia University Wisconsin and formerly taught at Lutheran High School in Parker, Col., and Martin Luther High School in Greendale, Wis. He is a product of Lutheran schools for his whole educational career and is a second generation Lutheran teacher, as his entire family works in education. Recently married to his wife, Taylor, Reisler said the Call to teach at Trinity came as a blessing from the Lord when God opened doors professionally for both of them. “It was clear to me from the start of my conversations with leadership that the ministry culture and focus at Trinity are special,” Reisler said. “Throughout my process, the intentionality on relationships and boldness sharing the Gospel have been aspects of ministry that were evident and that I know are a gift to partner with.” Reisler brings a passion and energy for both his subject matter and for developing student-family relationships. It’s always his hope to have his students walk away having improved their skills and understanding, but more importantly, having grown their faith and joy for sharing God’s love in their daily lives, he said. The Reislers are big fans of the outdoors, country music, reading, and sports, and Taylor’s mother, aunts, and grandpa all currently attend Trinity Church.
Arntson graduated from Martin Luther College and was called to teach at Northland Lutheran High School following graduation. Now she is looking
forward to teaching at Trinity and learning more about each of the students, teaching them science, and sharing Jesus’s love with them. Arntson said she accepted the position at Trinity because she wanted a career that involved her love of science, teaching, and Jesus. This position was a perfect fit, and being across the street from her husband, Devan, was a perk too! Arntson lived in Quito, Ecuador, for a year, perfecting her Spanish and teaching Bible classes. She has traveled to 10 countries and 49 states.
Johnson comes to Trinity with more than 23 years of experience in the education ministry, including more than 17 years dedicated to early childhood, and said she is thrilled to be starting a new journey as Trinity’s kindergarten teacher. Johnson is a devoted wife and mother of three. Her eldest child, Naomi, lives in Minnesota; her middle child, Lukas, is in heaven; and her youngest, Jayden, is set to begin his Junior year at MAPS this fall. While teaching is her passion, “Mrs. Lisa” also finds joy in expressing her creativity through watercolor and acrylic painting and other craft activities. She and her husband, Scott (a/k/a Principal Johnson), love their time camping with their three active dogs. Together, they are excited to be a part of Trinity’s ministry opportunity in the community. Mrs. Lisa’s favorite Bible verse is 2 Corinthians 9:12: “Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!” As she begins the new school year, she said she feels the joy of the Lord – especially in the opportunity to share Jesus with the children of Trinity School.