BARAGA COUNTY – The collaborative efforts of L’Anse High School and Baraga High School students, enrolled in the Baraga County CTE Construction Technology program, resulted in the successful auction of a beautifully constructed sauna. Jolene and Cliff Van Den Elzen emerged as the winning bidders, now proudly owning the sauna that has found its place on their Baraga County property, boasting stunning views of the surrounding lake.

Jolene Van Den Elzen, a dedicated advocate for technical education and a proud Upper Peninsula native, along with her husband Cliff, a longtime property owner in the area since 1986,, have expressed their excitement and gratitude for being able to support the project. Jolene’s background includes a career in technical education, holding both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Northern Michigan University and contributing significantly to Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Northern Wisconsin for over three decades.

The Van Den Elzens’ commitment to technical education and the local community was further highlighted by their generous sponsorship of a celebratory donut day for the student builders from L’Anse and Baraga High Schools, acknowledging their hard work and dedication.

“We are excited to have been the winning bidders for this project! Whether or not we had won the bid, I wanted the Copper Country ISD to know how much we value technical education.,” said Jolene. “My oldest son is also a CTE teacher. Technical Education has made a difference in so many lives, and your community’s commitment to CTE is evident.”

The Copper Country Intermediate School District extends its heartfelt thanks to Jolene and Cliff Van Den Elzen for their support and for embodying the spirit of the Yooper tradition through their new sauna. Their contribution not only highlights the importance of community support for educational programs but also celebrates the success and craftsmanship of our students.

The CCISD wishes for the Van Den Elzen family the best with their sauna, and that it serves as a warm reminder of the community’s dedication to education, hard work, and the enduring value of CTE.

For more information on the Baraga County CTE Construction Technology program and future projects, visit www.copperisd.org.