This week’s spotlighted MHS graduate is Diane Slinden Schofield, from the class of 1998.

Some of you may remember Diane as a stellar track and field athlete while in high school. She used her talents to earn a track and field scholarship at the University of Tennessee where she competed in the discus, shot put, hammer, and 20-pound weight throw. Diane earned SEC champion honors in the discus and was recognized as an All-American in the same event. Diane graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology.

After completing her undergraduate studies, she returned to Menomonie and pursued her science teaching certification at UW-Eau Claire. When her student teaching at MHS was completed in the spring of 2004, Diane began her teaching career as an 8th grade science teacher at Hudson Middle School.In 2007, she earned a Master of Science in Education degree with a focus on professional development at UW-Stout and went on to complete her Principal certification in 2009.Over the course of her 19 years at Hudson Middle School, Diane taught 8th grade science for 10 years, served as Dean of Students for 2 years, and worked as Associate Principal for 7 years.

For the past two years, she says she’s had the privilege of serving as Principal at Wakanda Elementary in Menomonie.Diane’s passion for sports remains as strong as ever! She competed in the discus at four NCAA National Championships, three USA National Championships, and the 2000 Olympic Trials.

For seven years, she coached throwers alongside her mom Rita at UW–Stout, where they developed multiple All-Americans and a Division III National Champion in the discus.She has continued to stay involved with coaching youth sports for her children, and especially enjoys playing golf with her husband and family.

Diane lives in Menomonie with her husband David—a 1998 graduate of Menomonie High School. (Perhaps we’ll find out more about him in one of our upcoming articles!) David is the Public Works Director for the City of Menomonie.

The Schofields have two wonderful daughters—Kate, who will be a freshman at MHS, and Annie, who is starting 6th grade at Menomonie Middle School. Their mom truly enjoys watching them grow up and thrive in this community. They stay active with tennis, golf, basketball, track and field, and softball.

Diane has come full circle–attending MHS as a student and finding herself back in Menomonie as an elementary school principal, a coach, and a strong fan of her daughters’ accomplishments. We’re so glad she came back to her hometown.

Judy Foust is a retired longtime 7th Grade Reading Specialist at Menomonie Middle School. To submit info to her or to request an interview she may be contacted at [email protected]