New Staff 2021
We are pleased to welcome some new faces to the MTSD staff this year! Please take a moment to get to know the new teachers and other employees at each school. Despite the certain challenges of this coming school year, we know our new staff are ready to empower all students to succeed, no matter what. Welcome to all our new employees!
Donges Bay
Malorie Davidson
Malorie Davidson - Kindergarten Teacher
"I studied Integrated Elementary and Special Education at the University of Minnesota-Duluth and obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Applied Sciences and became a licensed Elementary Education and Special Education teacher. I enjoy spending time outside in parks, hiking, backpacking and canoeing. I also enjoy rock climbing and yoga."
Favorite sing-along song: "Wildflowers" by Trampled by Turtles
Courtney Gunderson
Courtney Gunderson - Grade 2 Teacher
"I earned a bachelor of science degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Early Childhood Education from UW-Platteville. I enjoy spending time with my dog Ellie and going out to restaurants in town. I am looking forward to meeting my students and families and watching them learn and grow. I am excited to be starting my next journey at Donges Bay.
Favorite quote: “If a child can't learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn.” - Ignacio Estrada
Xai Khang - 4K Paraprofessional
"I earned a Bachelor of Science in Education Studies from UW-Milwaukee. I have a certificate in Cultures and Communities and a certificate in Youth Studies. I love trying new restaurants and food, spending time with my kids, Lucas and Scarlet, and dog Simba, and cooking when I get the chance."
Favorite quote: "She believed she could, so she did."
Ashley Krumenauer - Student Support Coordinator
"I earned a Bachelor of Science in Education with a Dual Major in Elementary and Special Education (1-8) from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. I earned a Master of Science in Educational Leadership with a Wisconsin Certification as Principal and Director of Instruction from Cardinal Stritch University.
I'm looking forward to getting to know all my students and watching each one grow and learn!"
Favorite movie: The Greatest Showman
Kaitlyn Kurtzweil - Special Education Teacher
"This is my tenth year teaching special education. I have my bachelor's degree from Illinois State University and my Master's in Literacy from Northern Illinois University. I enjoy spending time with my two daughters. I also love sewing, crafting and creating with my Cricut when I have some free time.
I'm looking forward to getting to know all my students and watching each one grow and learn!"
Melissa Lee - Grade 4 Teacher
"I earned a bachelor of science degree in business and marketing from The College of New Jersey, I earned a masters of arts in education from Alverno College. I enjoy traveling and cooking. I'm looking forward to building new relationships with my students and colleagues."
Favorite sing-along song: "Defying Gravity"
Lauren Miller - Special Education Paraprofessional
"I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Human Development at UW- Green Bay. I'm looking forward to building relationships with the students and faculty as well as finding more ways to get involved in the school."
Fun fact: "I am related to Laura Ingalls Wilder!"
Jaime Ochoa
Jaime Ochoa - Special Education Paraprofessional
"I graduated Milwaukee Area Technical college with Associates Degree in Business Management as well as a Water Technician Certificate. I like to spend time with my child and visit new outdoor parks. I also enjoy cooking and baking. I look forward to being apart of the staff as a team member. I also look forward to getting to know the child that I will work with and maintain an inclusive environment for them."
Interesting fact: "I do not buy paper plates, plastic utensils or cups to help do my part in reducing waste!"
Ariel Stearns - 4K Paraprofessional
"I have my bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and I am certified in grades PK-3rd grade. I enjoy spending time with my family outside in nature and with our puppy named Penny. I also love going to cooking club with my girlfriends and Netflix."
Favorite sing-along song: "So many, but I recently was just singing to 'Baba O'Riley,' by the Who."
Clinton Stephens - Physical Education Teacher
"I earned a bachelors of science in physical education and health from UW-Platteville with a minor in coaching and adaptive physical education. I enjoy doing pretty much anything active outside (biking, sand volleyball, disc golf, yard games). My guilty pleasure is Kopp's custard or any sweets."
Fun Fact: "I have climbed Mt. Rainier, which is the highest point in the state of Washington."
Kari Thomas - 4K Teacher
"I earned a bachelor of science degree from the University of Wisconsin - Madison in Human Development and Family Studies (Child Development and Pre-school Teaching). I enjoy traveling with my husband and twins (we have done some extensive road trips this past year ) and cheering on the Badgers and Brewers."
Favorite movie: Toy Story
Liz Handzel - Administrative Assistant
"I earned a BA in Business Management from Mundelein College in Chicago, which is now part of Loyola University. I enjoy reading, and listening to music. I enjoy walking for exercise and love baking and spending time with my family."
Favorite Quote: "Be curious, not judgemental."
Oriole Lane
Emily Kallas - 4K Paraprofessional
"I earned a associate of applied sciences in foundations of teacher education from Waukesha County Technical College. I enjoy reading, creative writing, listening to music, and playing games with my family. I am looking forward to getting the experience to work in a classroom, and to help in whatever way that I can."
Favorite quote: "Believe in yourselves. Dream. Try. Do good. " - Mr. Feeny, from Boy Meets World
Ashley Krumenauer - Student Support Coordinator
"I earned a Bachelor of Science in Education with a Dual Major in Elementary and Special Education (1-8) from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. I earned a Master of Science in Educational Leadership with a Wisconsin Certification as Principal and Director of Instruction from Cardinal Stritch University.
I'm looking forward to getting to know all my students and watching each one grow and learn!"
Favorite movie: The Greatest Showman
Sarah Kubly - 4K Teacher
"I earned a bachelor of science degree in Psychology and Environmental Studies from UW-Madison. I earned my teaching certification and am finishing up my masters of science degree in Curriculum and Instruction from UW- Milwaukee. I enjoy yoga, hiking and camping."
Desert Island Novel: The Vanishing Half
Brittany Larson
Brittany Larson - Grade 4 Teacher
"I earned a bachelor of science degree in elementary education with a minor in psychology from Wisconsin Lutheran College. I enjoy traveling and experiencing new cultures. I also love to spending time outside being active. I am excited to be a part of this learning community, to form relationships, and create new lifelong learners."
Favorite sing-along song: No matter the time of the year, I cannot help but sing along to "All I Want for Christmas is You," by Mariah Carey
Kellie McCann - Special Ed. Paraprofessional
"I have a high school diploma from Whitefish Bay and I also have several certifications in Early Childhood Development through KinderCare Learning centers. I enjoy taking my kids to the Milwaukee County Zoo and going to visit family in Texas. My second favorite place in Wisconsin besides Milwaukee is Door County."
Favorite movie: Jurassic World
Brittany Moser - Special Ed. Paraprofessional
"I have an associates degree in graphic design From Gateway Technical College. I enjoy raising pigs and chickens on our hobby farm, and creating things on my Cricut.
Favorite movie: Beauty & the Beast
Desi Schaller
Desi Schaller - Kindergarten Teacher
"I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from UW-Madison. I am certified to teach Middle Childhood-Early Adolescence with a certificate in ESL. I enjoy dancing and spending time outside. I have been dancing for years and was a part of a college dance team as well.
Favorite sing-along song: "What Dreams Are Made Of," by Lizzie McGuire
Clinton Stephens - Physical Education Teacher
"I earned a bachelors of science in physical education and health from UW-Platteville with a minor in coaching and adaptive physical education. I enjoy doing pretty much anything active outside (biking, sand volleyball, disc golf, yard games). My guilty pleasure is Kopp's custard or any sweets."
Fun Fact: "I have climbed Mt. Rainier, which is the highest point in the state of Washington."
Jordan Wendt - Kindergarten Teacher
"I earned a bachelor of science degree in elementary education and early childhood special education from UW- Oshkosh. I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, hiking outside, reading, puzzles, board games and crafts."
Favorite Quote: "What we know matters, but who we are matters more." - Brene Brown
Kelly Kasper - Special Education Paraprofessional
"I earned a BA in Fine Art and a minor in Special Education from UW-Whitewater. I enjoy painting, drawing, coaching, hanging out with my friends and dog."
Favorite quote: "I can't go back to yesterday because I was a different person then." - Lewis Carrol
Pam Dibble - Special Education Paraprofessional
"I earned a certification in Dental Assistance from MATC Madison. I also earned a certification in Holistic Nutrition from American Fitness Professionals & Associates. I enjoy hiking in nature, learning the guitar/ukulele, crocheting and making children's books."
Favorite fun fact: "I love to sing and dance."
Wilson
Anna Biese
Anna Biese - Speech & Language Specialist
"I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication and science disorders and a master of science in speech-language pathology from UW-Milwaukee. I enjoy traveling, exploring new places in the city and spending time outside."
Favorite quote: "Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game." - Babe Ruth
Monica Caputa - Grade 5 Teacher
"I earned my degree in Middle Childhood - Early Adolescence education from the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse. I enjoy going on walks and playing outdoor games with my family. This school year, I am looking forward to making new relationships with staff, students, and families."
Favorite sing-along song: "This is Me," from The Greatest Showman.
Kevin Granzin - Special Ed. Paraprofessional
"I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Religion at Augsburg College (now University) in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I enjoy being active and going on adventures."
Fun fact: "I was on a commercial for WISN Channel 12."
Brenda Hofschulte - Special Ed. Paraprofessional
"I have earned a bachelor of science degree in Archaeology at UW- La Crosse. I enjoy Irish dancing, crocheting, and cross stitching. I'm looking forward to a new environment and meeting new people."
Favorite quote: "You belong somewhere you feel free." - Tom Petty, Wildflowers
Alec Just - Special Education Teacher
"I have a bachelor’s degree in Special Education from UW - Whitewater. I enjoy exercise, hiking, spending time with my dogs, and golfing. I am very much looking forward to getting to know my new students and collaborate with other staff members."
Desert Island novel: A Man Called Ove
Lindsey Kresge - Grade 5 Teacher
"I earned a bachelor's from UW-Oshkosh Teaching Certification-Marian University Masters, reading 316 and 317-Viterbo University. I'm looking forward to meeting my students and getting to know the Wilson staff."
Fun fact: "I have run 7 marathons and more than 10 half-marathons."
Ashley Krumenauer - Student Support Coordinator
"I earned a Bachelor of Science in Education with a Dual Major in Elementary and Special Education (1-8) from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. I earned a Master of Science in Educational Leadership with a Wisconsin Certification as Principal and Director of Instruction from Cardinal Stritch University.
I'm looking forward to getting to know all my students and watching each one grow and learn!"
Favorite movie: The Greatest Showman
Jennifer Paredes - Grade 1 Teacher
"I earned a bachelor of science degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Wisconsin -Milwaukee. I enjoy traveling, spending time with my awesome family, and playing volleyball and reading."
Fun fact: "I love karaoke and ran a karaoke show when I was in college."
Lake Shore
Becky Flesher
Becky Flesher - Special Education Paraprofessional
"I earned a bachelor's degree in Psychology & minor in Human Resources from UW-Whitewater. I enjoy spending time outside...hiking & biking. I enjoy spending quality time with family, reading & learning new crafts. I am super excited to be coming home to Wisconsin & joining a new school district. Making new connections & starting a new chapter."
Favorite quote: "Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity."
Christopher Heston
Christopher Heston - Project Lead the Way Teacher
"Concordia University of Wisconsin: -Bachelor of Science - Major: Biology Minor: Environmental Science -Secondary Education - Licensure: Broadfield Science (601) and Biology (605) -Elementary Education - Licensure: Regular Education (1777) -Master of Science - Licensure: Alternative Education (1952). I enjoy spending time with my family and hiking."
Desert Island novel: On the Road
Dakota Hilton - Grades 7/8 Teacher
"I earned a bachelor of science degree in psychology and a minor in secondary education with an emphasis in broad field social studies from Carroll University. I enjoy cooking, music, anything comic book related, and spending time with my fiancé and our fur baby. I looking forward to the new environment and expanding my skill set through working with two grade levels and two different subject areas."
Favorite sing-along song: "Don't Stop Believing," by Journey
Vanessa Matusin - School Psychologist
"I earned a bachelor degree in Psychology with a minor in English from UW-Milwaukee and a masters degree in Educational Psychology/ Education Specialist degree from Alverno College. I enjoy music, learning to play the guitar, traveling both near and far, reading, writing, and spending time with my family.
I am looking forward to making connections with students and working together to develop our interests and strengths!"
Favorite movie: Dances With Wolves
Emily Ledvina - AVID Tutor
"I am working towards my Bachelor's degree in English and Education from Cardinal Stritch University. I enjoy reading and playing soccer."
Favorite movie: "Mamma Mia!"
Steffen
Jess Foderaro
Jess Foderaro - Special Education Teacher
"I earned a bachelor of science in elementary education and special education from Carroll University. In my free time you can find me cooking, reading, fishing, watching the Chicago Blackhawks or hiking with my giant Goldendoodle puppy, Maisy."
Fun fact: "I am a black belt in karate!"
Christopher Heston
Christopher Heston - Project Lead the Way Teacher
"Concordia University of Wisconsin: -Bachelor of Science - Major: Biology Minor: Environmental Science -Secondary Education - Licensure: Broadfield Science (601) and Biology (605) -Elementary Education - Licensure: Regular Education (1777) -Master of Science - Licensure: Alternative Education (1952). I enjoy spending time with my family and hiking."
Desert Island novel: On the Road
Cindy Olejnik
Cindy Olejnik - Special Education Paraprofessional
"I have earned a certificate in office professional training. Also, I will complete my BA psychology at UWM in 2023/2024. I enjoy physical activities indoor and outdoor; examples are charades, board games, Taebo, jogging. I use quiet time to rejuvenate my body, mind, and soul.
Favorite novel: "Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant."
Vanessa Matusin - School Psychologist
"I earned a bachelor degree in Psychology with a minor in English from UW-Milwaukee and a masters degree in Educational Psychology/ Education Specialist degree from Alverno College. I enjoy music, learning to play the guitar, traveling both near and far, reading, writing, and spending time with my family.
I am looking forward to making connections with students and working together to develop our interests and strengths!"
Favorite movie: Dances With Wolves
Jana Meari
Jana Meari - Special Ed. Paraprofessional
"I earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and a Minor in Spanish from UW-Milwaukee. Additionally, in the Fall of 2021 I will be attending Alverno College's School Psychology Masters/Ed.S Program. I enjoy playing piano and singing. Additionally, I love traveling and immersing myself in different places and cultures. This upcoming school year, I am looking forward to being able to experience working in a school for the very first time and learning many new skills. Additionally, I am excited to work with teachers and students to help create a positive impact that will last."
Favorite movie: What's Eating Gilbert Grape?
Beth Pickhard
Beth Pickhard - ICC Assistant
"I earned a bachelor of arts in journalism and communications from UW-Madison. I am currently pursuing a master's degree in library and information science at UW-Milwaukee. I enjoy mountain and road biking, hiking, running, reading, writing, cooking international foods, and playing my trumpet. I am looking forward to meeting students and helping them find books, graphic novels, and other materials that they come to love."
Favorite movie: Definitely, Maybe
Alyssa Ponkratz - Literacy Specialist
"I graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Middle/ Secondary Education and English. I am now in the process of getting my Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Carroll University. I enjoy rock climbing and reading, being outside, and spending time with my family and friends."
Fun fact: "I was on the Price is Right!"
Megan Coultas- Special Education Paraprofessional
"I have a B.A in English and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Cardinal Stritch. I love playing with my cat, Leo and my Frenchie, Thor. I also love touring museums and trying new restaurants."
Favorite quote: "Life can change in an instant: and ordinary instant." - Joan Didion
Emily Ledvina - AVID Tutor
"I am working towards my Bachelor's degree in English and Education from Cardinal Stritch University. I enjoy reading and playing soccer."
Favorite movie: "Mamma Mia!"
Homestead
Kelly Appleby
Kelly Appleby - Physical Education Teacher
"I earned a bachelor degree in Kinesiology, Health Minor and Adapted PE certificate from UW-Madison. I enjoy playing golf, spending time with my family, and lifting weights. I am looking forward to the opportunity to learn and grow with the students at Homestead HS.
Favorite movie: The Rocky series.
Kim Berens
Kim Berens - Special Ed. Paraprofessional
"I have learned everything from being hands-on. I love my family and Disney, and am looking forward to meeting new people."
Favorite movie: Anything Disney
Maureen Clayvon-Wright
Maureen Clayvon-Wright - Special Education Teacher
"I earned a bachelor of science degree in Human Services and Management at University of Phoenix, completion in Tacoma, WI A master of science degree in Exceptionality/Educational Diagnostician at University of St. Thomas, Houston, TX. I enjoy going to the movies, cooking, walking, and spending time with my boys."
Favorite sing-along song: "“I Just Wanna Be Happy,” by Kirk Franklin
Sue Hoke
Sue Hoke - Special Education Paraprofessional
"I earned a bachelor of arts degree in social science from Alverno College in Milwaukee. I enjoy cooking with my family, hiking and reading. I am looking forward to getting to know the students I will be spending time with each day."
Favorite movie: "The Goonies" and "The Princess Bride" are two of my favorites.
Chester Loeffler-Bell
Chester Loeffler-Bell - Auditorium Director
"Carroll College, BA Theatre University of South Carolina, MFA Theatre-Lighting Design. I enjoy board games and sports."
Favorite quote: "Treat people they way you want to be treated."
Paul Oestreich - Choral Music Teacher
"I earned a bachelor of arts degree in music from Carroll College and am working on my Estill Figure Proficiency certification from Estill Voice International. Music is both a professional and personal interest for me. I also enjoy cycling and dancing although I don't do much of those anymore now that I have young children. I'm looking forward to making new connections with students and sharing great performances with the community."
Favorite movie: The Lord of the Rings series
Page Otto - Spanish Teacher
"I have a bachelor's degree in nutritional science from Brigham Young University (2007) and a master's degree in Spanish education from Auburn University (2020). I dedicate myself to spending time with my family and supporting my children in their pursuits. I also enjoy running and exercising. I look forward to expanding students' world views and opening their eyes to the myriad of possibilities when they acquire a second language."
Favorite quote: "A different language is a different vision of life."
Katie Ruff - Alternative Education Coordinator
"I earned a double major in the areas of elementary and special education at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and a Master's Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies of Curriculum and Instruction from National-Louis University. When I am not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my husband and four children; our kids are involved in lots of sports and activities that keep us on the go I spend my free time running, reading, and being outside."
Favorite sing-along song: "My kids have finally given in and now join me in singing along to the old favorite 'Lovely Day,' by Bill Withers, whenever I play it."
Marisa White - Physical Education Teacher
"I earned a bachelor of Science in Education at UW-Whitewater and Masters in Physical Education at UW-Lacrosse. I enjoy Crossfit, coaching gymnastics, biking with my family and camping. I'm looking forward to using my experience to help my department, learn from my peers, and getting to know students while having fun learning and teaching."
Favorite movie: Titanic
Cally Kashou - Special Education Paraprofessional
"I earned a BS in teaching English to speakers of other languages and International Studies from UW-River Falls. In my free time, I enjoy crocheting and learning languages."
Favorite quote: "Happiness is not by chance, but by choice." - Jim Rohn
Emily Ledvina - AVID Tutor
"I am working towards my Bachelor's degree in English and Education from Cardinal Stritch University. I enjoy reading and playing soccer."
Favorite movie: "Mamma Mia!"
District
Danielle Gross - Recreation Supervisor
"I earned a bachelor of science in nursing from UW-Milwaukee. I am currently in the process of earning/receiving a masters in recreation management and professional development from UW-La Crosse. I love hiking and taking long walks with my dog, Winston. I am ready to learn and take on new tasks and responsibilities."
Favorite movie: 16 Candles
Cindy Guth - Technology Office Manager
"I have 40 years in customer service, with 14 years in working with school districts and municipalities, as well as 30 years of working with insurance. I enjoy photography, cooking, pets, traveling, and time with family. I am looking forward to new opportunities and meeting new folks."
Desert island novel: The Notebook
Caylee Herrara
Caylee Herrara - Kids' Campus Supervisor
"I have experience tutoring and coaching, and am looking forward to meeting everyone."
Favorite quote: "Be a decent human being." - Brianna Lapaglia
Alicia Keifenheim - Kids' Campus Supervisor
"I am attending Concordia University for my masters in occupational therapy. I'm looking forward to meeting all the students and being able to do activities with them."
Favorite sing-along song: "Party in the USA," by Miley Cyrus
Sofia Lacayo - Kids' Campus Supervisor
"I graduated Homestead High School and attended 1 year at MATC for business. I enjoy being outside, spending time with friends and finding new music to listen to."
Favorite sing-along song: "Happy Idiot," by TV on the Radio
Madison Seymour - Kids' Campus Group Leader
"I am currently a Senior at Homestead High School. I enjoy advocating for equal rights, swimming and gaming."
Favorite Quote: "Nothing good comes easy" by my mum.
Hannah Tyler - Kids' Campus Supervisor
"I currently a student at Concordia University. I enjoying traveling with family and friends, reading and helping others."
Favorite movie: "The Greatest Showman"