New Staff 2020

Sara Gustafson - Health Aide

"I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Mt. Mary University and have a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from St. Olaf College. I enjoy running, playing golf, tennis, roller blading, reading and spending time with my family and friends. I am looking forward to providing health care assistance to students and staff this year."

Favorite sing-along song: Anything Taylor Swift

Robert Lubbers - Grade 5 Teacher

"Motivation is key. Learning is fun. Special education collaboration, technology, content mastery, flexibility, creative lesson planning, communication, humor, confidence building, and working as a TEAM are all areas I value and am committed to improving. I enjoy family time with my wife, three boys, dog and tortoise. I like spending time outdoors, animals, playing music, exercising, reading, and laughing."

Desert island novel: Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring

Lora Stupak - Social Emotional Coach

"I earned a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and won the undergraduate student excellence award in my graduating semester. I earned a master of arts in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee as well."

Fun fact: "I am a certified scuba diver!"

Regina Turrentine-Cobbs - Special Education Paraprofessional

"I earned an Infant-Toddler Professional Credential from Milwaukee Area Technical College. I am still attending Concordia University Wisconsin-Project Invest, Miller Park Way Center. I enjoy singing in my church choir, trying new foods, activities with my grandchildren, spending time with my family, and, traveling. I am looking forward to meeting new families, building new relationships with the children and staff."

Favorite quote: "Work while you work and play while you play."

Danielle Keller - ICC Aide

"I started an associate degree in bakery and pastry arts from Milwaukee Area Technical School and previously attended Valparaiso University for a short time studying International Business and Chinese and Japanese Studies. I enjoy doing cake decorating projects for friends and family. Cuddling and spending time with my giant 120 lb. Mastiff mix dog, Ani-Mei is my other passion."

Fun fact: "I love watching old school kung fu movies and Asian dramas."

Emily McKay - Special Education Teacher

"I earned a bachelor of science degree in early childhood education and early childhood special education from UW-Milwaukee. I enjoy cooking, puzzles, playing board games, exploring Wisconsin parks, riding the interurban trails and spending time with my 3 children. I am looking forward to collaborating with staff and meeting new students."

Favorite movie: Titanic

Anna Selestow - Grade 4 Teacher

"I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelor of Science-Education degree. I am certified in both Middle Childhood-Early Adolescence and English as a Second Language. I look forward to a year full of learning, for both my students and myself. I believe learning never stops, so I look forward to watching my scholars soar and tracking my own personal growth."

Favorite movie: The Parent Trap

Chad Sova - Principal (Transferring from Asst. Principal at Homestead)

"My 'why' for teaching and leadership stems from my educational experiences growing up. Reflecting back, I can identify the teachers that have set the foundation for my lifelong learning through their inspiration and commitment to students. I live with Lindsey, my wife, and Libby, our dog, in Thiensville. In our free time, you can find us working around the house, cycling around OZ county, and searching for snow during ski season."

Fun fact: "Thanks to hockey, my front teeth are not the originals."

Jennifer Botelho-Chojnacki - Grade 4 Teacher

"I earned a bachelor of science degree in rehabilitation psychology from UW-Madison and a master of arts in teaching from Cardinal Stritch University. I enjoy being outdoors, hiking and biking with my family, and reading funny novels."

Desert island..."novel": "Physician's Desk Reference...hollowed out. Inside: waterproof matches, iodine tablets, beet seeds, protein bars, NASA blanket and, in case I get bored, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone."

Shaunté Bryant - Grade 1 Teacher

"I earned a B.S. in Elementary Education from Stillman College and an M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education from the University of West Alabama. I'm really looking forward to learning all I can about the MTSD, my new family!"

Favorite quote: "Don't be afraid to give up the good to go for the great." - J. D. Rockefeller

Katie Bullock - Grade 1 Teacher

"I earned my bachelors or arts degree from St. Norbert College. I majored in Elementary Education and minored in early childhood. I am looking forward to creating relationships with my students, colleagues, and families. I am excited to collaborate around kids and curriculum and continue to push myself as an educator. I am excited for new opportunities to grow and help kids."

Favorite quote: "A beautiful day begins with a beautiful mindset."

Jenna Lahmann - Physical Education Teacher

"I earned a bachelor of science degree in education from UW-Oshkosh, majoring in physical education with minors in adapted PE, health, and Spanish. I love trying new things New ways to be active, new cooking/baking recipes, and learning whatever I can. I also enjoy traveling, hiking, and spending time with family and friends."

Favorite TV show: "The Office"

Sarah Laszewski - Special Education Teacher

"I earned my bachelor's degree in Elementary and Special Education from UW-Madison. I am excited about getting to know my students and my coworkers. I am also looking forward to being creative about my teaching so that my students will make progress despite the pandemic."

Fun fact: "I have a dog named Teddy. He is a Shih Tzu."

Jessica Seyfert - Grade 3 Teacher

"I have a BFA in Dance from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. I have three Teaching Certifications: Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education and Pk-12 Dance. I am currently at Concordia University work towards a Master's Degree in Teaching and Learning. I enjoy going for walks with my dog, reading, doing puzzles, and yoga."

Fun fact: "I have a rescue dog from Alabama, Hazel. She is my fur baby."

Lauren Stoltman - Special Education Teacher

"I earned a bachelor of arts degree in elementary and special education at Concordia University. I enjoy reading in my free time. I also enjoy having game nights with my friends and family. I am looking forward to my first year of teaching. I am looking forward to working with the special education team and other teachers at Wilson. I am also looking forward to working with my future students."

Desert island novel: "Any of the Harry Potter books, especially the Prisoner of Azkaban."

Emily Stousland - Grade 5 Teacher

"I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Norbert College and a Master of Arts in Education from Silver Lake College (Now called Holy Family College). I enjoy travel and have visited over thirty countries with my husband of twenty-five years and two (pretty much grown) children. I also love to read, take long walks in nature, and try new restaurants."

Favorite movie: It's a Wonderful Life

Jay Gullickson - Grade 7 Teacher

"I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Carthage College and a Master of Arts from Carroll (College) University. I have been teaching at Whitnall Middle School for 28 years prior to coming to the MTSD. This spring I was voted President-Elect for the Wisconsin Society of Science Teachers and began serving my four-year term in May. I enjoy laughing and traveling with family and friends, and all things that deal with sports, fitness, and the outdoors."

Favorite Movie: The Shawshank Redemption

Lindsay Johnson - Special Education Teacher

"I earned my bachelors degree in Special Education with an emphasis in cognitive disabilities from University Wisconsin-Whitewater in 2011. I earned my Masters degree in Special Education from Concordia University in 2019. I enjoy taking care of my health by biking, swimming, and doing crossfit. I am passionate about traveling and going on new adventures."

Favorite book: Present over Perfect or anything Nicholas Sparks

Charles Miller - Special Education Paraprofessional

"I graduated from Shorewood High School in 2009 and did some college after. I am a big sports guy. Played multiple sports up to this point in my life and may have some interest coaching. I am really looking forward to building relationships with other faculty and students and hopefully learning a lot in the process.

Favorite quote: "Don't count the days, make the days count." - Muhammad Ali

Jessica Tipkemper - Grades 7/8 Teacher

"I have a B.A. in Communication (University of Cincinnati) M.A., Communication (University of Cincinnati) M.Ed., Education (Antioch University). I enjoy music, reading, and being outdoors. I am looking forward to deepening my practice as an educator by investing my energy and attention in a focused area and working with a strong team of colleagues."

Favorite movie: Little Miss Sunshine

Lindsay Olig - Spanish Teacher (Lake Shore & Steffen)

"I earned a bachelor of arts in Spanish from UW-Stevens Point and I earned a bachelor of science in Elementary Education from UW-Stevens Point. I enjoy weight lifting, hunting, being on the water, and camping. I look forward to becoming a part of the MTSD and making connections with staff and students."

Desert island novel: Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis

Chelsea Boyd - Special Education Teacher

"I have a bachelor of science degree in psychology from UW-Milwaukee and a cross categorical teaching license from UW-Oshkosh/RITE Program via CESA 6. I initially worked in the behavioral health field before going back to school to earn my teaching degree. I student taught at Slinger High School for one year and have spent the past three years as an inclusion teacher at Kewaskum High School. I enjoy traveling, reading, cooking, and spending time with friends and family."

Desert island novel: "Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen or the collected works of Mark Helprin."

Cara Johnson - Special Education Teacher

"I earned a bachelors degree in Elementary Education and minor in Special education from Cardinal Stritch University. I enjoy all things nature and hiking I also love animals and spending time with my own animals. I am looking forward to starting my career and learning from students and other staff members. I am excited to learn all about my students and grow as an educator."

Desert island novel: "Tale of Desperaux. I read this book a lot when I was younger. It makes me happy and I love the way Desperaux finds a way to become a hero in his own way."

Shentel Manresa - Office Assistant

"I earned a Bachelor's Degree of Science in Education at The University of Wisconsin at Oshkosh. While there, I earned my Wisconsin teaching license in early childhood through adolescence for English as a Second Language and early adolescence through adolescence in English. I enjoy cooking, reading, dancing, and spending time outside with my family."

Favorite movie: "It's a tie between Renaissance Man and Saving Private Ryan."

Lindsay Olig - Spanish Teacher (Lake Shore & Steffen)

"I earned a bachelor of arts in Spanish from UW-Stevens Point and I earned a bachelor of science in Elementary Education from UW-Stevens Point. I enjoy weight lifting, hunting, being on the water, and camping. I look forward to becoming a part of the MTSD and making connections with staff and students."

Desert island novel: Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis

Lori Becker - AP Testing Coordinator

"I earned an M.A. in Education, Emphasis: Teacher Leadership, Silver Lake College-Institute of Graduate Studies Manitowoc, WI B.S. in Education, Emphasis: Early Childhood Education, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Milwaukee, WI. I enjoy gardening and spending time outside watching birds."

Favorite quote: “When they go low, we go high”

Antoinette Bent - Student Supervisor

"I have earned an Associates Degree in Human and Social Services from Bryant & Stratton College. I enjoy singing, going on vacations, reading, and learning new things. I am looking forward to meeting everyone and applying my experiences with Homestead High School. I am also looking forward to learning from staff as well."

Favorite sing-along song: "Happy," by Pharrell Williams

Kayla Bublitz - Math Teacher

"I earned a bachelor's degree in mathematics and an education and educational services certificate from UW-Madison as well as a master of science in curriculum and instruction from UW-Madison. I enjoy playing volleyball, playing board games, and spending time with family and friends."

Favorite sing-along song: "Build Me Up Buttercup," a classic Wisconsin Badger song.

Robbie Fulton - Counseling Office Administrative Assistant

"I earned my B. S. from Concordia University – Wisconsin and I'm currently earning my masters from Concordia University – Wisconsin as well. I enjoy spending time with my family, coaching/playing basketball and buying tennis shoes. I am looking forward to my new role and getting to know the MTSD community.”

Fun Fact: "I am the boys’ basketball freshman head coach and varsity assistant here at Homestead."

Cortney Hammer - Choral Teacher

"I earned a bachelor of arts in music education from UW-Whitewater and a master of music in music education from the University of Florida. I enjoy coaching competitive marching band with my husband, going on hikes with my dog and friends, and running my Etsy digital art and sticker shop!"

Favorite movie: The Harry Potter series

Elizabeth Noorlander - Study Center Aide

"I have an AAS from SUNY- Orange and enjoy being with my family, photography, reading, sewing, writing, long road trips by myself."

Favorite desert island read: "Pilgrimage by Annie Leibovitz. And then (because these are all important for various reasons) Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel, One to Ten and Back Again, Just Kids by Patti Smith, Moonglow by Michael Chabon."

Emma Piechura - Science Teacher

"I graduated from UW-Madison for both my undergraduate and graduate degrees. For my undergraduate degree, I majored in Zoology and minored in Education and Educational Services. For my Master's, I received a degree in Curriculum and Instruction with emphasis in Secondary Science Education. I then earned my teaching licenses in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Broadfield Science and English as a Second Language."

Fun fact: "It is my goal to travel around the world to see unique ecosystems."

Nicholas Schueller - Social Studies Teacher

"I have a bachelors in history from UW-Milwaukee and I have a masters of education and professional development from UW-La Crosse. I enjoy spending time with my family and reading."

Desert island novel: 1984

Christopher Weiss - Assistant Principal

"I earned a B. S. from UW - Stevens Point M. S. from Concordia University - Wisconsin. I enjoy spending time with my wife and 3 children, and doing yard work and side projects. I am looking forward to meeting new students and staff and becoming a valuable team member."

Favorite sing-along song: "More Than a Feeling," by Boston

Calie Hiegel - Kids' Campus Group Leader

"I am currently working toward a Bachelor of Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Concordia University-Wisconsin. I enjoy playing volleyball at CUW and spending quality time with friends, watching movies and exploring Wisconsin. When I am at home in Nebraska, I usually spend my time playing games with my family or going to Starbucks with friends. "

Fun fact: "I have one blue eye, and one eye that is half brown!"

Claudia Osburn - Kids' Campus Group Leader

"I earned my high school diploma from Brown Deer High School. I then completed two years of college. One year was completed at UW-Milwaukee and the other at UW-Whitewater, majoring in Human Resources and minoring in Spanish. I enjoy traveling, spending time with my family, and watching movies."

Favorite sing-along song: "Love on Top" by Beyoncé

Timothy Powell - Kids' Campus Group Leader

"I have an Associate of Education Degree from MATC. Additionally, I am a current UWM School of Ed Student with a focus in English studies for Elementary. I enjoy anything sports or music related. This upcoming school year I hope to serve the students to the best of my ability during these difficult times."

Favorite quote: "Change the world by being yourself." - Amy Poehler

Ian Thompson - Executive Director of Communication & Engagement

"I earned my bachelors of arts from University of Wisconsin Milwaukee in Broadcast Journalism and Public Relations. I enjoy spending time with my dog Barkley, riding my motorcycle and exploring Milwaukee. I'm looking forward to using technology to effectively impact learning."

Favorite movie: Baby Driver

Megan Van Sambeek - English Language Specialist

"I earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and Spanish. I also completed a Master of Science in Curriculum & Instruction in Social Studies and ESL at UW-Madison. I enjoy hiking, camping, and traveling with my husband and dog. I am looking forward to serving our ELL students and families."

Favorite quote: "Oftentimes, the most righteous thing you can do is shake the table." - Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

Jennifer Winters - Kids' Campus Group Leader

I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Spanish Language and Literature from Marquette University in 2008. I earned an Associates of Applied Arts in Graphic Design from MATC in 2012. I am currently enrolled in the Licensure to Masters Program in Education with a focus in early childhood education at Alverno College, with an expected graduation in December of 2021."

Favorite quote: "Everything happens for a reason."