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I grew up in a farming community in western Iowa. After college I spent one year teaching in Pittsburgh, PA. I have had many different teaching roles at Immanuel, and currently I am enjoying teaching first grade. What I love most about teaching is sharing Jesus and my love for reading with my students. I enjoy gardening, fun at the lake such as swimming, canoeing, and fishing, and taking vacations to places I've never visited. I am the mom of two teenagers who keep me laughing.

Hometown: Charter Oak, IA

Bachelor's Degree: Bachelor in Education majoring in English and Health, Concordia University, Seward, NE

Master's Degree: Educational Literacy with a Reading Teacher License and a Reading Specialist License, Concordia University, Mequon, WI

What chore do you absolutely hate doing?: Unloading the car and unpacking after vacation

Who is your greatest inspiration and why?: My Grandma Meseck - Both my parents worked, and I spent lots of time with her and Grandpa. She taught me many things, but mostly the importance of God's presence in my life. Our work and play centered around Christ.

What is something that makes you really happy?: My family - whether we are working or playing, I always love being with them.

I was born September 24th and enjoyed my childhood days in Des Plaines, Illinois where I attended Immanuel Lutheran and Maine West High School. During those years I was involved in volleyball, badminton, and played the clarinet in concert and marching band. After high school I attended Valparaiso University and Concordia University in Chicago where I received a BA in Elementary Education. My first teaching call brought me here to teach first grade and since then I have taught second, third, and a bit of upper grades. I met and married my husband, Mark, and we were blessed with three sons, Keith, Kevin, and Steven.

Hometown: Des Plaines, IL

Bachelor's Degree:: Elementary Education, Concordia University, River Forest, IL

Concentration: Early Childhood and Math

What chore do you absolutely hate doing?: I don't dislike doing the laundry, but I despise the fact that it never seems to end!

Who is your greatest inspiration and why?: My mom is my greatest inspiration. She didn't tell me this until after I had made my decision, but she had wanted to be a teacher and wasn't able to do it. I saw her love and dedication for the little children to whom she taught Sunday School. She has always loved, encouraged, and supported me in my life's journey.

What is something that makes you really happy?: Doing activities with my family and spending time with them brings me happiness. I always find joy in watching those little ones grow in their learning throughout the year.!

I have been teaching in Lutheran Schools for over 30 years and can't imagine doing anything else with my life. I love teaching kids and sharing the love of Christ in the process.

Hometown: Minot, ND

Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education, Concordia University, St. Paul, MN

Director of Christian Education (Youth), Concordia University, St. Paul, MN

Master's Degree: Early Childhood Education, Grand Valley State University, MI

What chore do you absolutely hate doing?: Pulling weeds

Who is your greatest inspiration and why?: Apostles Peter and Paul for forming the first Christian church

What is something that makes you really happy?: Camping, reading, and golfing.