New Staff 2024

Ashley Austin - Special Education Paraprofessional

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I enjoy spending time with my family- movie nights, hiking, traveling, game nights!

Favorite ice cream flavor?: Anything chocolate.

Kate Behring - Part-Time Elementary Orchestra Teacher

Educational background: Valparaiso University, BME; Northwestern University, MM; Suzuki Trained books 1-4.

Why did you choose education?: I’ve always loved kids and loved playing the violin. These two passions led me to become a music educator.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Hiking, walking, spending time with friends and family.

Favorite novel?: Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear.

Morgan Clifford - Special Education Paraprofessional

Educational background: Bachelor's in Communication Sciences and Disorders and currently pursuing Master's in Cross Categorical Special Education. 

Why did you choose education?: The kids I work with through respite care inspired me to work in education. I have seen first-hand how their teachers have positively impacted their lives both academically and personally.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: To go on new adventures/dates with my boyfriend, play the piano or listen to music, go to concerts, look for new recipes on Pinterest, binge a new tv show, watch Wisconsin Badger athletics, and do fun activities with my friends. 

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?: I would be a sloth because they hang out in the trees and sleep all day, and they are fast swimmers. 

Kaeley Luhr - Social Emotional Coach

Educational background: I have my Bachelors in Psychology and my Masters in School Counseling, both from Marquette University.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Cooking, being outside, skiing, camping and spending time with family.

Favorite movie?: Harry Potter.

Favorite ice cream flavor?: Cookie dough.

Emily Netzow - Office Assistant

Educational background: I have a bachelor's degree in Management from the University of Phoenix.

Why did you choose education?: I have been a nanny/babysitter since I was in middle school. I love being around kids. My family also comes from a long line of educators.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I love going on walks and especially going up north to my family cabin where I can swim, fish, and enjoy the outdoors.

If you could invite any celebrity to dinner as a guest, who would it be?: Jimmy Fallon.

Jessica Palmer - ELL Specialist (Donges Bay & Oriole Lane)

Educational background: I earned my master’s in curriculum and instruction from UW-Whitewater and I completed my undergraduate degree at UW-La Crosse with a major in Spanish education and a minor in TESOL.

Why did you choose education?: I always wanted a career where I could help others and make a difference in my community. I was inspired to pursue education after volunteering at an English school while studying abroad in Salamanca, Spain. I loved connecting with students and being a part of their educational journeys. I’ve taught for 8years now and can’t imagine myself doing anything else!

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I love spending time with my family (I have two sons), reading, cooking/baking, listening to music and enjoying time outdoors!

What is your go-to singalong song?: "Dancing in the Moonlight," by King Harvest.

Jordan Schmitz - Elementary Band Teacher

Educational background: Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the University of Wisconsin Madison.

Why did you choose education?: Working with students brings me joy, laughter, and always makes my day interesting. I love knowing that my work is contributing to a better and brighter future for our community.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I love to read.

Favorite movie?: Jurassic Park.

Kate Behring - Part-Time Elementary Orchestra Teacher

Educational background: Valparaiso University, BME; Northwestern University, MM; Suzuki Trained books 1-4.

Why did you choose education?: I’ve always loved kids and loved playing the violin. These two passions led me to become a music educator.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Hiking, walking, spending time with friends and family.

Favorite novel?: Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear.

Fallon Kennedy - Grade 1 Teacher

Educational background: I earned my Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. I returned to school for my master's and elementary licensure in 2022. In December of 2023, I graduated from Carroll University.

Why did you choose education?: I've always had a passion for working with children. My love for education grew immensely when I was hired as a SPED paraprofessional at Oriole Lane in 2022. With that experience, I knew exactly what I wanted to do; to teach and inspire young students. I could not be more grateful and excited to begin another year at Oriole Lane!

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I love to spend time with my family, friends, and my dog, Yogi. I also love to travel, read, go on outdoor walks, and practice yoga/pilates.

Favorite ice cream flavor?: Salted caramel.

Holli Jackson - Office Assistant

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I love being active with my kids and playing in the yard with our dog Max.

Favorite ice cream flavor?: Cookie Dough.

Sarah Melby - Grade 5 Teacher

Educational background: Graduated from Marquette University with a double degree in Elementary Education and Psychology.

Why did you choose education?: I always wanted to be a teacher! When I was in grade school, I would invite my friends over to play in my make-believe classroom so I could be the teacher.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: In my free time I enjoy baking, reading, walking my dog, and hanging out with friends and family.

If you could be any animal, what you be and why?: A blue whale because I can explore the entire ocean.

Hannah O'Brien - Grade 3 Teacher

Educational background: Grew up in MTSD and went to University of Iowa.

Why did you choose education?: I have always enjoyed working with kids and love to see them overcome challenges and grow socially and academically.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Reading, cooking, spending time with friends.

If you could invite celebrity to dinner as a guest, who would it be?: Noah Kahan.

Jessica Palmer - ELL Specialist (Donges Bay & Oriole Lane)

Educational background: I earned my master’s in curriculum and instruction from UW-Whitewater and I completed my undergraduate degree at UW-La Crosse with a major in Spanish education and a minor in TESOL.

Why did you choose education?: I always wanted a career where I could help others and make a difference in my community. I was inspired to pursue education after volunteering at an English school while studying abroad in Salamanca, Spain. I loved connecting with students and being a part of their educational journeys. I’ve taught for 8years now and can’t imagine myself doing anything else!

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I love spending time with my family (I have two sons), reading, cooking/baking, listening to music and enjoying time outdoors!

What is your go-to singalong song?: "Dancing in the Moonlight," by King Harvest.

Jordan Schmitz - Elementary Band Teacher

Educational background: Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the University of Wisconsin Madison.

Why did you choose education?: Working with students brings me joy, laughter, and always makes my day interesting. I love knowing that my work is contributing to a better and brighter future for our community.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I love to read.

Favorite movie?: Jurassic Park.

Austin Wendorf - Physical Education Teacher

Educational background: University of Wisconsin Whitewater.

Why did you choose education?: I wanted to be able to help students achieve their true potential and develop healthy habits to incorporate into their daily lives!

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Being active, trying new restaurants, and being with family and friends!

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?: Giraffe, because they are almost as tall as I am!

Kate Behring - Part-Time Elementary Orchestra Teacher

Educational background: Valparaiso University, BME; Northwestern University, MM; Suzuki Trained books 1-4.

Why did you choose education?: I’ve always loved kids and loved playing the violin. These two passions led me to become a music educator.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Hiking, walking, spending time with friends and family.

Favorite novel?: Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear.

Jessie Campbell - Special Education Paraprofessional

What is your educational background?: Graduated From Riverside University H.S in 2004, graduated from Empire Beauty School in 2012.

What inspired you to work in education?: I have always enjoyed working with and supporting children with special needs. I love seeing a child reach their ahhhhaa moment when they succeed in something they were working towards, whether it be big or small. Education is extremely important to me and every child deserves the best education.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: I enjoy hanging out with my husband and daughter. Playing and cuddling with my two dogs. Going to the movies. Disc golfing. Swimming. Teaching people how to swim. Watching my daughter swim. Cutting and coloring hair. Being able to create art.

If you could invite any celebrity to dinner as a guest, who would it be?: Michael J. Fox.

Kimberly Crain - Special Education Teacher

Educational background: This will be my 9th year teaching. I graduated from UW-Milwaukee in 2016 with a degree in Early Childhood Education. I began teaching as a second grade teacher and after two years I went back to school and received my post-baccalaureate certification in Early Childhood Special Education.

Why did you choose education?: Working with children with special needs has always been something close to my heart. From my early childhood, to clubs and camps, to my career I have always been involved with children with special needs.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I enjoy spending time with my family (husband and two kids) and being outside.

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?: I would be an elephant... I'd enjoy my days in the heat, have fun using my awesome trunk, and play around in the water!

Alison Henry - Special Education Paraprofessional

Educational background: 14 years ago, I worked as a para in Texas, from there I was an advocate for individuals with special needs and for the past 6 years I taught 2nd grade.

Why did you choose education?: Ever since I was a little girl, teaching and working with kids was a dream of mine. To see the joy in their faces and seeing them overcome a challenge brings me purpose.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: In my free time I love to spend time with my boyfriend Chris and our 2 dogs, we love to walk and be active outside. I love the Green Bay Packers, and I really enjoy baking and the simplicity of life.

What is your go-to singalong song?: "Can't Stop the Feeling," by Justin Timberlake. 

Stephanie Nass - Physical Education Teacher

Educational background: I have been teaching for 12 years.

Why did you choose education?: To work with students and inspire them as influential teachers did for me over the years.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Golfing, being with friends and family.

Favorite movie?: Top Gun.

Jordan Schmitz - Elementary Band Teacher

Educational background: Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the University of Wisconsin Madison.

Why did you choose education?: Working with students brings me joy, laughter, and always makes my day interesting. I love knowing that my work is contributing to a better and brighter future for our community.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I love to read.

Favorite movie?: Jurassic Park.

Samantha Siebenaller - Grade 5 Teacher

Educational background: Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies (EC-6) and Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Reading and Literacy from Texas A&M University.

Why did you choose education?: I started teaching swimming lessons at the age of 12. I loved watching the swimmers grow and develop throughout each session. That is what inspired me to begin teaching. I am able to witness growth and development on a daily basis.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I love to work out, play with my dogs, spend time with family during my free time.

Favorite ice cream flavor?: Cookies and cream.

Ashley Swihart - Grade 4 Teacher

Educational background: Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I enjoy going for walks, playing pickleball, working out, and spending time with my family and fiancé!

Favorite novel?: The Best of Me, by Nicholas Sparks.

If you could invite any celebrity to dinner as a guest, who would it be?: Harry Styles.

Ashley Baier - Grade 8 Teacher (ELA & Science)

Educational background: I’ve taught 5th grade for 6 years in Milwaukee and then 10 years in West Allis teaching 6-8th graders in Math, Science and Social Studies.

Why did you choose education?: I have known I wanted to be a teacher since I was 6 years old. My aunt was a teacher and I loved going in to her classroom. I am the oldest sibling and cousin as well, so I always had littles around me that I enjoyed taking care of.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I love spending time with my family finding new adventures. I also enjoy running, crafting and going to concerts.

What is your go-to singalong song?:  Anything from Pink!

Jeff Haubenreich - Principal

Educational background: Mr. Haubenreich has most recently served as an associate principal and prior to that, as a world languages teacher and curriculum chair in the School District of Menomonee Falls. He holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and Spanish from UW-La Crosse, a master’s degree in education from the University of Kentucky, and an additional master’s degree in educational leadership from Concordia University Wisconsin. 

Caylee Herrera - Special Education Paraprofessional

Educational background: I worked for the Rec Department at Kids Campus and Summer Camp as a site supervisor for three years.

Why did you choose education?: My first year working at Kids Campus was what made me want to pursue a career in education.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I enjoy crocheting, and crafts. I also love to hike.

Favorite movie?: Up.

Eric Neuman - Grade 6 Teacher (Math & Social Studies)

Educational background: AAS in Computer Information Systems from MATC and a BS in Education from UW Milwaukee. I taught 7th Grade for 3 years in the Verona Area School District and 1 year in the Brown Deer School District.

Why did you choose education?: I always wanted to be a teacher growing up as I knew that I wanted to work with children. For me, it was always a calling. However, I decided to pursue Computer Science due to pressure from my parents. Due to the economy at the time, I ended up working in financial services instead. My grandmother, however, told me to do what makes me happy as that was how she always lived her life. That was the last conversation her and I ever had. As a result, I decided to switch career paths to education as this is where I always felt I should be!

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Camping, Hiking, Kayaking, Snowshoeing, Video Games, Cooking.

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?: Peregrine Falcon as I would love to be able to fly and see the world from above the trees. Fun fact, they can dive to the ground at speeds reaching 240 mph!

Mason Burg - Grade 6 Teacher (Math & Science)

Educational background: I have a bachelor's of science in education from UW-Whitewater.

Why did you choose education?: Amazing teachers I had during my time in school.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Watching Wisconsin sports and hanging out with friends.

If you could be any animal, what would it be and why?: A cat, because they have nine lives and they're super cute.

Mary Kasten - Administrative Assistant

Why did you choose education?: I enjoy being with the kids - helping them and watching them grow and learn new ideas.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Spending time with my doggy, Emmett and my son, Andrew. I enjoy walks, movies, game nights, shopping.

If you could invite any celebrity to dinner as a guest, who would it be?: Pedro Pascal.

What is your go-to singalong song?: "I Want it That Way," by the Backstreet Boys.

Sam Nadolsky - Principal

Educational background: Bachelors in actuarial science from UW-Eau Claire, masters in educational policy and leadership from Marquette. Taught mathematics at Shorewood Intermediate School and was the Gifted and Talented Coordinator at Shorewood School District before becoming the interim Principal at Shorewood Intermediate.

Why did you choose education?: My own educational experience wasn't always positive, in particular as a middle school student, so I was inspired to work in education because I wanted to make the experiences of our students more meaningful and supportive. I also hold the belief that education is inherently liberating, so as an educator I'm able to provide opportunities for students to empower themselves to be successful on their own terms.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Hanging out with my kids.

If you could invite any celebrity to dinner as a guest, who would it be?: Patrick Stewart.

Kiersten Schelman - Grade 6 Teacher (Science & Social Studies)

Educational background: I taught for the West Allis - West Milwaukee School District for 8 and a half years. 7 of those years were at West Milwaukee Intermediate School.

Why did you choose education?: I had always wanted to be a teacher. I just didn't know what I wanted to teach. When I was in middle school I ended up falling in love with my Social Studies classes. I had two amazing teachers that made the classes fun and engaging. Along the way, I had so many incredible teachers who helped me through the awkward years of my life. I wanted to have the same impact of students that they had on me.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Reading, traveling, going on adventures with my fiance and our dog Marvin, & spending time with family and friends.

Favorite novel?: The Divergent series.

Adam Bold - Assistant Principal

Educational background: I have worked as a teacher and instructional coach at the middle school level in Kenosha, Brown Deer and Tosa. I most recently have served as an Associate Principal at Wauwatosa West High School for the past 3 years.

Why did you choose education?: I was a camp counselor through high school and loved working with kids. After trying a few different majors in college I knew working with kids was the path for me.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Spending time with family, snowboarding, and playing sports.

Favorite novel?: Harry Potter.

Abbie Gerczak - Social Studies Teacher

Educational background: Attended the University of North Texas and Mount Mary University.

Why did you choose education?: The teachers I had as a student!

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Traveling, watching the Green Bay Packers/other sports, and spending time outside!

Favorite movie?: Forrest Gump.

Joyce Kaiser - ICC Aide

Educational background: Master’s Degree from Bowling Green State University.

Why did you choose education?: I retired in 2023 after 27 years at Johnson Controls. My father taught horticulture in Ohio and I always thought I’d enjoy teaching. To keep busy after retiring, I substituted in K4 through high school during the 2023/2024 school year. My favorite assignments were in the library. When this position was posted I decided to apply!

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Exercising - biking, lifting and walking.

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?: A dog, they are typically friendly and it seems like everyone loves them. They also get treats.

Catey Moroder - Student Office Administrative Assistant

Educational background: Bachelors in Educational Studies and Psychology from Marquette University.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: I think there is nothing more rewarding than watching kids grow throughout the school year, and I just love being a part of that!

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Getting outside with my puppy!

If you could invite any celebrity to dinner as a guest, who would it be?: Taylor Swift. Maybe it's basic, but it's true.

Tyler Prouty - Special Education Paraprofessional

Educational background: Graduated from Concordia Wisconsin in 2023.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Hanging out with my wife, golf, watching sports.

Favorite ice cream flavor?: Blue Moon.

If you could invite any celebrity to dinner as a guest, who would it be?: Shaun White.

Michelle Schueller - Math Teacher

Educational background: Bachelors in Math/Education Masters in Curriculum and Instruction.

Why did you choose education?: My parents are educators and I wanted to be like them. I also really like helping people and want to inspire others to enjoy math.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Spending time with my family, friends, and playing volleyball.

Favorite novel?: Into Thin Air, by Jon Krakauer.

Nicole Tridimas - French Teacher

Educational background: I have a Master of French Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a Bachelor of Science degree in French, Secondary Education, and English from Marquette University, and a Translation Certificate from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. During my junior year at Marquette I studied abroad in France, and I also spent a year teaching English in France after college.

Why did you choose education?: I grew up in a bilingual household and I've always been very passionate about other languages and cultures. I love being able to share my passion with students, and I hope to inspire the same interest in them.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Reading, crocheting, and spending time with my cat, Luna. I also love traveling! This past year I went to Morocco, Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, and France.

Favorite novel?: The entire Harry Potter series. 

Emily Wranovsky - ELL Specialist

Educational background: Bachelor's of Education from UW-La Crosse.

Why did you choose education?: I was inspired to pursue this path while working with international students in high school and college.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Going for walks, art, gardening, fishing, cooking, spending time with my family.

What is your go-to singalong song?: Anything Cher! 

Stephanie Asplund - Business Services & Operations Administrative Assistant

Educational background: Menomonee Falls High School/UW Milwaukee.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Reading, spending time with my children, Brewers Baseball, football.

What is your go-to singalong song?: Zac Brown Band.

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?: Bird - can fly anywhere!

JoAnna Melendez - Payroll, Benefits & Wellness Coordinator

Educational background: Bachelors of Science in Business.

Why did you choose education?: For as long as I remember numbers was my thing. I also enjoy being able to help the kids outside of the classroom. In my current role I won't have much interaction with many students but I look forward to any interaction that I might have.

What do you enjoy in your free time?: Being around family!

If you could invite any celebrity to dinner as a guest, who would it be?: Giannis - yes, I am a Bucks fan!