New Staff 2025
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. We know our new staff are ready to empower all students to succeed, no matter what. Welcome to all our new employees!
Donges Bay
Photo coming soon!
Vivian Grossman
Grade 4 Teacher
Info coming soon!
Photo coming soon!
Sara Gustafson
Paraprofessional
Info coming soon!
Photo coming soon!
Paola Lomeli
ICC Assistant
Info coming soon!
Photo coming soon!
Shauna Miller
Paraprofessional
Info coming soon!

Taylor Veenendaal
Kindergarten Teacher
- What is your educational background?: This is my third year teaching, and my second year teaching Kindergarten. I have a degree in early childhood education.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I have always had a passion for teaching! I grew up babysitting, nannying, and working at a daycare. I come from a family of passionate educators and childcare workers. I am a fourth-generation teacher, and I love helping students learn and grow.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Hanging out with my friends and family, hiking, cooking, and being outside.
- If you could be any animal, what would you be, and why?: I would love to be a dog. They spend their days hanging out, napping, and running outside. Sounds like the perfect life!
Photo coming soon!
Megan Vettraino
Paraprofessional
Info coming soon!
Oriole Lane

Stacey Barmore
4K Paraprofessional
- What is your educational background?: I received my BBA in Marketing from UW-Eau Claire. My second career started 10 years ago when I entered the world of education as a paraprofessional.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I had wonderful teachers growing up in Cedarburg and really enjoyed my time in school. I look forward to helping create the same kind of positive, safe, and welcoming environment for students at Oriole Lane.
- Favorite ice cream flavor?: Chocolate Factory Special (chocolate mint ice cream with chocolate chips and fudge). The best!

Rebekah Erkes
Paraprofessional
- What is your educational background?: My educational background consists of earning my Bachelor's degree from UW-Whitewater in Communication Sciences and Disorders. I went on to Graduate School to Capella University, where I earned my Master's in Psychology with an Emphasis in Applied Behavioral Analytics.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: I enjoy playing volleyball and pickleball with my friends, going to sporting events, spending time with my family, and snuggling up with my cat Jimmy.
- Favorite ice cream flavor?: Cookies and Cream
- If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?: Although birds are not my favorite, I would want to be able to fly.

Caitlin Johnson
4K Teacher
- What is your educational background?: Certified birth through 6th. I will be going into my 13th year of teaching. I have Kindergarten and 4k.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I love helping children learn and grow.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Anything outdoors.
- Favorite ice cream flavor?: Chocolate chip cookie.
Photo Coming Soon!
Kelsiejane Stone
Recess Mentor
Info Coming Soon!

Melissa White
Literacy Specialist
- What is your educational background?: I attended undergrad at UW-Eau Claire and received my Master's in Language & Literacy from Cardinal Stritch. I taught first grade for nine years and have been a Reading Specialist for 13!
- What inspired you to work in education?: I’ve always loved being around kids—they make me laugh, they care deeply, and their curiosity and innocence are genuinely inspiring. There’s something special about the way they approach the world with wide eyes and open hearts. I’ve also always had a deep love for books, thanks to my mom and grandma, who sparked my passion for reading.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Spending time with my family and watching my girls play their sports and perform. I also love to travel and explore new places, belly laugh with my friends, play board games, and I'm in a very committed relationship with my Peloton.
- If you could be any animal, what would you be, and why?: A dog—because I thrive on snacks, loyalty, and being the best company.
Wilson

Nicole Bemis
Paraprofessional
- What is your educational background?: Grew up in Mequon, attended MTSD K-12, Winona State University for college then moved back to Mequon.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: In my free time I enjoy hanging out with my kids and husband, reading, going to hot pilates classes and party planning
- Favorite ice cream flavor?: Peanut butter in chocolate.
- If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?: A bird, flying would be pretty fun!

Jill Guskov
Teacher, Grade 1
- What is your educational background?: Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Master of Science in Literacy from Concordia University-Wisconsin.
- What inspired you to work in education?: As a member of the Mequon-Thiensville community and an MTSD parent, I am honored to be a part of our school district's commitment to excellence. My children have had exceptional MTSD educators throughout their early years. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated staff to create memorable and engaging learning experiences for students in our community.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: I enjoy running, and most recently ran the Madison Marathon and the Maritime Marathon. We spend a lot of time outdoors, gardening, biking, golfing and shoveling off our outdoor ice rink in the winter!
- Favorite ice cream flavor?: Kopp's Red Raspberry.

Kirstynne Hock
Special Education Teacher
- What is your educational background?: I have a Bachelor of Science from the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay. This will be my first year teaching, and I am very excited to be a part of MTSD.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I have had some great educators who made a positive impact on me, and that really stuck with me. I would like to do the same for my students, supporting them both in their learning and in their personal growth. I also hope to make learning something they can enjoy.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: I enjoy hanging out with friends and family, going on walks with my dog, watching a good movie, going to sporting events, and being outside. I also love to travel and explore new places.
- What is your go-to singalong song?: "I Wanna Dance With Somebody," by Whitney Houston.
Photo Coming Soon!
Monica Leis
Health Aide
Info Coming Soon!

Mahsa Mesbah
Paraprofessional
- What is your educational background?: I recently moved to the United States from Iran. I studied mathematics at university and worked as a math teacher in my home country.
- What inspired you to work in education?: When I was a student, I had a math teacher who inspired me and helped me discover a love for the subject. That experience encouraged me to study mathematics and continue my education in this field. It also motivated me to become a teacher who can help students better understand concepts, enjoy learning, and feel confident in their abilities.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: In my free time, I enjoy practicing Yoga and meditation, cooking, and watching TV series.
- What is your favorite movie?: I enjoy watching TV shows that are about detective stories, solving puzzles, and mysteries.
Photo Coming Soon!
Claudia Utz
Grade 4 Teacher
Info Coming Soon!

Phyllis Worth
Paraprofessional
- What is your educational background?: I received by Bachelor of Science from UW-Milwaukee in Occupational Therapy. I practiced for 14 years as an OTR/L at St Francis Children's Center in Glendale. After being a stay-at-home Mom for a number of years, I worked as a SpecEd para in the Kewaunee School District for 9 yrs.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I have always loved working with children of all ages and abilities. I've volunteered often in my children's classrooms and taught children's church for many years.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, biking, reading, and baking.
- What is your favorite novel?: Any novel by Francine Rivers.
Lake Shore

Deepti Burgula
Grade 7 Teacher
- What is your educational background?: Master's in Microbiology; Teaching Certification from City University & ESL Endorsement from Seattle University.
- What inspired you to work in education?: Kids inspire me that there are different ways to learn different things. I like to be part of making a difference in the community.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Gardening, doing puzzles with my kids, and scrapbooking.
- Favorite movie?: Avatar.
Tiffany Chang
Orchestra Teacher
- What is your educational background?: I taught in the School District of Beloit, the Wauwatosa School District, and then the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra.
- What inspired you to work in education?: Wanting to contribute to society as a whole - I believe that young people are the key to the future.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Spending time with my family (husband and two kids), playing with our cat, going on walks, and baking.

Lindsey Skaife
School Psychologist
- What is your educational background?: MS- Community Counseling, EdS- School Psychology.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I always loved school and wanted to help students.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Baking, reading, and going to concerts.
- Favorite movie?: When Harry Met Sally.
Steffen
Richard Ashburn
Facility Coordinator
- What is your educational background?: I have my GED.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Working on my truck, kayaking and fishing.
- What is your favorite novel?: Lord of the Rings
- If you could be any animal, what would you be, and why?: Bobcat, because they are big enough not to have many predators after them, but small enough to travel unseen.

Johan Aulwes
Grade 8 Teacher
- What is your educational background?: BS Natural Science Education from UW - Stevens Point.
- What inspired you to work in education?: To inspire students to become engaged and make discoveries.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Reading and spending time outside.
- What is your favorite movie?: Pitch Perfect.
Tiffany Chang
Orchestra Teacher
- What is your educational background?: I taught in the School District of Beloit, the Wauwatosa School District, and then the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra.
- What inspired you to work in education?: Wanting to contribute to society as a whole - I believe that young people are the key to the future.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Spending time with my family (husband and two kids), playing with our cat, going on walks, and baking.
Photo coming soon!
Sydne Davis
Grade 6 Teacher
Info coming soon!

Andrea Fischer
Grade 7 Teacher
- What is your educational background?: I attended UW-Eau Claire and completed my teaching certification program at UW-Milwaukee. I hold a Master's degree in education and have previously taught seventh and eighth grades in Elmbrook.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I come from a line of teachers: my grandmother, my mother, and many of my aunts and uncles were teachers, so I grew up helping out in classrooms.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my husband and kids (5-year-old son and 10-year-old daughter) as well as teaching barre classes, camping/ backpacking, helping out with my kids' PTA, and traveling to national parks.
- If you could invite any celebrity as a guest to dinner, who would it be, and why?: I would invite Dave Matthews to dinner. My husband and I are huge fans and have attended 68 concerts!
Aidan Fish
Paraprofessional
- What is your educational background?: High school graduate.
- What inspired you to work in education?: A desire to support students through their learning goals.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Go to the gym and spend time with my family on the lake.
- What is your favorite novel?: Harry Potter & the Goblet of Fire.

Jessica Kelly
School Counselor
- What is your educational background?: I have been in education for 21 years and have taught at all three levels; my most recent position was teaching High School English.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I believe our purpose in the world is to help and serve others, and being in education and now counseling is an amazing opportunity to do just that!
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, working out (especially running and weights!), baking/cooking, reading, and volunteering with my church and with the dogs at a local animal shelter!
- Favorite movie?: Not sure! But any kids' movie that I get to watch with my niece and nephew is especially enjoyable :)

Lindsey Skaife
School Psychologist
- What is your educational background?: MS- Community Counseling, EdS- School Psychology.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I always loved school and wanted to help students.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Baking, reading, and going to concerts.
- Favorite movie?: When Harry Met Sally.
Photo coming soon!
Elizabeth Walecka
Physical Education Teacher
Info coming soon!
Homestead

Sam Chrin
English/AVID Teacher
- What is your educational background?: I graduated from Kent State University in 2020 with a degree in Integrated Language Arts and have taught middle and high school English in Kansas, Colorado, and now Wisconsin.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I was inspired by high school English teacher Mr. Whitmore, whose emphasis on critical thinking, real-world connections, and a supportive classroom sparked a passion for shaping students’ futures. I want to be that kind of teacher for someone else, to be a positive and lasting influence in their lives.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: I like to go on walks or runs.
- What is your favorite book?: "The Little Prince," by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.
Samantha De Leon
Social Studies Teacher
- What is your educational background?: Graduated high school in 2020 from Cary-Grove High School in Cary, IL. Graduated college in 2024 from Marquette University with a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education and History.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I first knew I wanted to be a teacher in 5th grade when my own teacher took a special interest in me once she noticed I was falling behind in math and losing confidence in other subjects because of that. Then, I had such wonderful history teachers in high school, and just loved the subject itself so much that I knew I wanted to be a high school history teacher rather than an elementary teacher. Well, here I am!
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: I spend a lot of my free time running, and even coached cross country and track during my time student teaching and subbing last school year. I also love thrifting, cooking, and reading!
- What is your favorite movie?: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (I love the book too!)
Morgan Gates
Long-Term Theater Sub
- What is your educational background?: I graduated in 2020 with degrees in Theatre and Education, then started directing and teaching at a number of theatre academies in the Milwaukee and Lake Country areas! I've worked primarily at First Stage and St. Jerome's School most recently as well as various other jobs as well.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I love seeing student growth throughout both the semester and when working on shows. Seeing them succeed in opportunities and displaying the confidence made by working as a team is my favorite quality of education.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Performing or relaxing with the tiny Yorkie that runs my life.
- If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?: A monkey for the prehensile tail.

Joan Harter
Paraprofessional
- What is your educational background?: I have an associate's degree in Human Services.
- What inspired you to work in education?: Love working with kids!
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Photography, hiking, camping, reading, swimming, ice skating.
- What is your favorite ice cream flavor?: Ben and Jerry's The Tonight Dough.

Faith Hatch
Paraprofessional
- What is your educational background?: BA of Arts from UW Stevens Point.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I've felt inspired by the teachers I've learned from in the past and would love to instill a love of learning and passion in students like my teachers did for me.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: I make music! I perform with a lot of different bands around the Milwaukee area, write music, and put together tribute shows.
- If you could invite any celebrity as a guest to dinner, who would it be?: Beyoncé.

Sarah Krueger
Special Education Teacher
- What is your educational background?: This will be my 9th year teaching. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Rehabilitation Psychology from UW-Madison. I have taught both at the elementary and high school level, as well as teaching both in Wisconsin and, most recently, in Texas! I am happy to be back in my home state and at Homestead!
- What inspired you to work in education?: I have always had a passion for teaching and working with students to prepare them for life ahead. I encountered numerous supportive teachers throughout my own educational journey that really inspired me to create that same safe space for my own students to learn and grow both academically as well as personally. I love getting to work with students and see them grow over time and reach their successes.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: When I'm not teaching I love to read and spend time exploring and travelling with my husband and our daughter.
- What is your favorite movie?: The Sandlot, The Breakfast Club, or any Disney movie.

Tracy Leto
Study Center Supervisor
- What is your educational background?: I received my bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: I enjoy running, camping, and spending time with my husband and three daughters. I spend a lot of time watching and coaching my daughters' sports! I also love collecting beach glass.
- What is your favorite movie?: The Breakfast Club.
- Favorite ice cream flavor?: Peanut butter cup.
Al Moroder
Business Education Teacher
- What is your educational background?: Homestead High School '04 / Concordia University - WI - B.S. '08 / Milwaukee School of Engineering - MBA '15.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Fishing, hunting, and spending time with my two daughters and wife.
- What is your favorite ice cream flavor?: Irish Cream.
- What is your go-to singalong song?: "You Can Call Me Al."

Jenna Niemiec
English Teacher
- What is your educational background?: BA in English Literature from UW-Madison (2024) and MS in Secondary Education from UW-Madison (2025).
- What inspired you to work in education?: All the wonderful educators I had while I was a student!
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: I love being outside, cooking, and spending time with my friends and family.
- What is your go-to singalong song?: "Stick Season," by Noah Kahan!

Zach Petzel
Math Teacher
- What is your educational background?: I have a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics Teaching from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and I have a Master's degree in Educational Leadership and Innovation from Wisconsin Lutheran College.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I was inspired to work in education by a deep desire to help students learn, grow, and believe in their own potential.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with friends and family, playing volleyball and golf, going fishing, watching movies, and traveling to new places.
- Favorite ice cream flavor?: Door County Cherry Chocolate Chunk.

Jimmy Reed
Athletics Administrative Assistant
- What is your educational background?: I have my Masters degree in counseling.
- What inspired you to work in education?: I love working with kids and having the ability to aid in their athletic journey is something I always wanted to be a part of.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: I enjoy spending time with my 4 boys and my amazing wife!
- If you could be any animal, what would you be, and why?: I would be an eagle to be able to fly.
John Sammis
ICC Assistant
- What is your educational background?: College.
- What inspired you to work in education?: Substitute teaching.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Reading. Drawing. Watching movies.
- Favorite novel?: Norwood, by Charles Portis.

Mia Tatum-Crider
School Counselor
- What is your educational background?: I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education, Health Education, and Coaching from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. I obtained two Master of Science degrees from Concordia University Wisconsin in Counselor Education and Student Personnel Administration In Higher Education. I am currently working toward a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. I previously taught elementary physical education for five years, and this is my 21st year in education and my 15th year as a School Counselor!
- What inspired you to work in education?: I was inspired to become an educator by my parents. My mother is a retired 4th-grade teacher, and my father coached and volunteered with youth athletics. I witnessed their dedication and passion to teach, guide, mentor, and be a role model to children and young adults and I wanted to do the same! They also instilled in me the value of education and to be a lifelong learner!
"Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow.” ~ A.J. D’AngeloBeing a School Counselor allows me to fulfill my passion to assist and support students to navigate challenges and empower them to reach their full potential!
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. My husband, three daughters, my sister and our parents enjoy traveling. I am a basketball and sports fan and I love watching and attending games. I also love reading research and books related to school counseling and counselor education topics! I also enjoy volunteering!
District

Danielle Hood
Administrative Assistant (Mequon-Thiensville Recreation Dept. & MTSD Business Office)
- What is your educational background?: BS in Kinesiology and Doctorate of Physical Therapy.
- What inspired you to work in education?: Working with and for children has always been deeply rewarding to me. I'm energized by their creativity and imagination, and I love being involved in initiatives that help them grow, learn, and achieve their fullest potential.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Playing slow-pitch softball, reading, creating polymer clay earrings, and coloring!
- If you could invite a celebrity to dinner as a guest, who would it be?: Viola Davis.

Matthew Vanderkamp
Recreation Director
M-T Rec. Dept.
- What is your educational background?: Western Illinois University: Bachelor’s Degree: Recreation, Parks and Tourism Administration.
- What inspired you to work in education?: Working in the recreation industry allows me to serve the community. It's fun to watch young program participants grow up through our programs. I grew up working in park districts as a young adult. Then found out I can go to school for it and make it a career. The rest is history.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?: Enjoy being outdoors. Hiking, camping, gardening, just to name a few.
- Favorite movie?: Big Fish.