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2012-2013 New Teachers - Lake Havasu Unified School District

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Welcome <strong>2012</strong>-<strong>2013</strong><br />

<strong>New</strong> <strong>Teachers</strong>


Melissa Cibik<br />

5 th Grade, Nautilus<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

The fantastic staff at Nautilus!! No, Really!!! :o)<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

"I was born to be a teacher, and did a ""Mid-Life"" career change.<br />

My husband was my biggest supporter of this exciting change! I<br />

could not have been able to reach this dream, without him!!!"<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

Boating on BEAUTIFUL <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Havasu</strong>, exploring the river, and watching the<br />

gorgeous sunsets with my hubby!


Allison Wagner<br />

Math, LHHS<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

I am originally from Michigan, where there are not many job opportunities for<br />

teachers at this time. Having the opportunity to move out west, and be able to<br />

work within my profession was something I could not pass up.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

During my years in high school many of my teachers were not<br />

motivating or exciting. I chose this field to have the chance to<br />

motivate students in a different way and show them how math can<br />

be fun and exciting. I also truly enjoy interacting with students and<br />

being an encouraging figure in their world.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

During my free time I enjoy keeping up on my physical fitness, relaxing with a<br />

good book or television show, and spending time with friends and family<br />

(where good food is, of course, included).<br />

Along with Arizona, I have also lived in Georgia, Michigan and<br />

Germany. I will also remain a loyal Central Michigan University fan<br />

while living here...Go Fire Up Chips!


Elizabeth Carr<br />

5 th Grade, <strong>Havasu</strong>pai<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

I interviewed in Rochester, NY for a teaching job here in <strong>Havasu</strong>. They hired<br />

me quickly and it was a spontaneous decision.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I've always loved working with kids. It seemed natural to me to be<br />

an educator because of the positive changes you get to make with<br />

your students.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

I love working with kids, I've sought out volunteer opportunities at day camps and churches to<br />

interact with young people. I enjoy hiking, swimming and playing tennis. I love being creative,<br />

whether it's scrapbooking or making a pinterest project! I love listening to music, I spend hours<br />

just searching for new artists on the internet; I can't stand knowing that there are musicians out<br />

there that I haven't listened to yet! I also really enjoy relaxing either by myself or with friends.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about<br />

you that you would like to share?


Sean Adams<br />

English, LHHS<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

A wonderful job fair at Central Michigan University where I was privileged<br />

to have a sit down with "technology guru" Michelle Ravnikar. Before I<br />

was able to partake in dialogue with Michelle though, an amazing/<br />

incredibly useful district webpage caught my attention! <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Havasu</strong><br />

seemed like a great place to get my career started as a teacher and<br />

professional.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the field<br />

of teaching?<br />

3 teachers in particular had a profound effect on my schooling during<br />

my time in Davison, Michigan; one Mr. Bruce Martin in 5th grade, Mrs.<br />

Christine McAuliffe was my first AMAZING English teacher in 8th<br />

grade, and my Freshmen and Sophomore English teacher Mrs. Joani<br />

Shears made lasting impressions upon me. Also, with regard to<br />

English, I have an extensive affection for writing!<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

I play hockey and golf. I must admit my undying<br />

devotion to the Detroit Redwings! I enjoy hunting and<br />

fishing. I also enjoy spending time at the dog park with<br />

my chocolate lab pup, Abbee. I also have a cat,<br />

Graycee.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would like to share?<br />

"I hale from Davison, Michigan, just East of Flint. (Michiganders may understand the<br />

notion of my being from the middle my right palm!) I graduated college with my<br />

teaching degree from Central Michigan University in December of 2009... Go! Fire up<br />

Chips! I am engaged. My fiancé, Remey, is back in Michigan until January, at which<br />

time she'll be graduated from the University of Michigan- Flint with a nursing degree. I<br />

am an uncle 12 times over. In closing, I look forward to making a difference... and<br />

October when I'm told it cools down slightly."


Denise McElwain<br />

4 th Grade, Nautilus<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

The "<strong>Lake</strong>" Blue-Cool-Wet Why work your life away when you can Work hard<br />

and... Play hard!!!!!<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I really don't know??? I come from a family of teachers and slid<br />

into the educational program during my Sophomore year by<br />

accident; loved it, so I stayed:-)<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Swimming-Biking-Kayaking-Boating(water sports)-Art-Silver Smithing<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I have a family I adore! My daughter Bailey, my son Chace and<br />

the backbone of our family Scott. They have filled my heart with<br />

great joy!


Martha Petersen<br />

4 th Grade, Starline<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

My parents initially, but after moving away my husband and I decided to return<br />

to raise our family. Most of my family is here which provides a great support<br />

system.<br />

It is a rewarding career that has endless opportunities for<br />

continued learning and personal growth. I feel that the schedule is<br />

one that allows me to spend quality time with my family and still be<br />

career oriented.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I love swimming, reading, paddleboarding, and camping.<br />

I am happily married with three children ages 9, 6, and 10 months.


Joy Moorhead<br />

5 th Grade, <strong>Havasu</strong>pai<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

Husband's job<br />

passion for learning and teaching<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

Reading, cooking, birdwatching


Alyssa Pezone<br />

Special Education, LHHS<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the field of teaching?<br />

I really love the English content from having such great teachers in high school. My<br />

I had the wonderful opportunity to interview with <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Havasu</strong> English teachers embedded in me a love for reading and writing which made me<br />

<strong>Unified</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>District</strong> #1 at the Rochester Area Teacher think: Oh hey, I want to do that someday. Also, my 16 year-old brother was<br />

Recruitment Day in March. I loved the things that I heard and diagnosed with High functioning Asperger Syndrome and Inattentive ADHD before I<br />

the questions I was asked, so I applied online. After began college. He was my main motivation for entering into the Special Education<br />

accepting the job, I was able to visit in June and absolutely profession. I just really love being that outlet for students who need a little more<br />

fell in love with the area too!<br />

push than other students. It make me happy to see the light bulb go on in their<br />

heads.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Let's go Buffalo!! I am a huge Buffalo Bills football fan! I also watch a lot of TV, and love<br />

using my DVR. I like going to the gym for Spin classes and cooking delicious meals to<br />

stay healthy. My favorite thing to do is sit outside with a great book or spend time with my<br />

amazing family and friends!<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that<br />

you would like to share?<br />

My family is also very very Italian. So, I tend to be loud<br />

and happy on a daily basis.


Theresa Nigg<br />

3 rd Grade, Starline<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

My family brought me hear in 4th grade.<br />

Love for children and wanted to make a difference.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

"Running, Reading, Shopping"<br />

Love my family and love teaching!!


Jeff Young<br />

Language Arts, TBolt<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

Mari Jo<br />

Bad teachers, good teachers, and a good life.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Fishing, hiking, cooking, eating, learning, observing, reflecting, doing.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

It has been a long road for me. I have come a long way. It is<br />

possible to do so.


Heather Rutkowski<br />

Language Arts, TBolt<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the field of<br />

teaching?<br />

I was offered a teaching job during a recruitment fair in upstate<br />

<strong>New</strong> York. The personalities of Michelle Ravnikar and Mari Jo<br />

Mulligan really encouraged me; their presence during the<br />

interview process made me feel as though I would fit in well with<br />

the spirit of teachers at Thunderbolt and LHUSD.<br />

"Ghost teachers" and indomitable creativity. A "ghost teacher" is someone who<br />

either inspires you to teach because of the positive impact they had on your life (I<br />

had several), or who inspires you to become a teacher because you hope to be<br />

for students what they were NOT for you. One of these ghost teachers first<br />

encouraged me to teach because I couldn't sit still in her class; she said, "You<br />

have more imagination than one person needs, so go and be a teacher."<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Writing short fiction and poetry, watching crime dramas on television,<br />

Broadway musicals, and spending an inordinate amount of time on<br />

the internet.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would like to<br />

share?<br />

I think my students are going to have to find out... :)


Amanda Vandermolen<br />

Math, TBolt<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

Originally, I was moving here to be with my boyfriend, however, he is no<br />

longer coming to live here. So I came here for my teaching job. :)<br />

I love teaching. I have taught swim lessons for 8 years. And of<br />

course, I love children.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Reading, swimming, hiking, snowboarding, anything outdoors, sleeping,<br />

watching movies<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I was on the TV show Wipeout, and I am a very fun and exciting<br />

person.


Charlotte Liptak<br />

Special Ed, Starline<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

We moved here to cure my husband's allergies. It<br />

worked!<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the field of teaching?<br />

I wanted to do something that truly mattered; that would make a positive difference in the<br />

lives of others. I love the way young children's minds work, and their openness and<br />

eagerness to learn new things. Even in my prior career, I would think about teaching<br />

instead. I eventually decided to change careers, and I became a teacher. It is the most<br />

rewarding and challenging thing I've done, and I love it.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

I love to travel, read, and visit with family and friends. My husband and I have<br />

a travel trailer, and we like to take weeks in the summer to explore our<br />

national and state parks.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I was a lawyer for 20 plus years. I was in <strong>New</strong> York City on 9/11.<br />

My husband and I lived aboard our boat for approximately 11<br />

years, and went cruising for several years along the East and Gulf<br />

Coasts, and to the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos.


Kerry O’Hara<br />

Language Arts, TBolt<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

The enthusiasm of both Mari Jo Mulligan and Michelle Ravnikar was<br />

infectious. I cannot wait to work with them!<br />

I had a wonderful English teacher in high school who helped me to<br />

find and reach my "full potential." Just as she believed in me, I<br />

believe in my students. If you think you can, you can.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?


Mary Allen<br />

5 th Grade, Starline<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

I moved here to teach school! I am originally from California, but spent the<br />

last 4 years in Illinois going to school. Moving to <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Havasu</strong> has helped us<br />

be closer to family again.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I enjoy working with children and understand the importance of a<br />

good education.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

I enjoy reading, playing the piano, and spending time with my family.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I am the mother of five children!


Katie Crampton<br />

Special Education, Smoketree<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

I graduated from high school here and recently moved back from San Diego,<br />

CA after getting divorced.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I wanted to be able to help students succeed in school and give<br />

them the skills to be successful in life like so many of my teachers<br />

did for me.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

My hobbies to name a few are spending time with my friends, reading,<br />

watching the TV shows I enjoy, going out on the lake, and watching movies.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I like traveling and under anything interesting about myself that I<br />

have traveled to Australia, <strong>New</strong> Zealand, Ireland, England, and<br />

France.


Joel Michalski<br />

Language Arts, TBolt<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

Raised here since 1999.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I wanted to know that my life would have a bigger impact on the<br />

word than just family and friends.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

I play guitar, do voices, play videogames, write comics and novels, and take<br />

care of a pool that manages to control the rabbit population in my area all by<br />

itself.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I was on the Bozo Show in Chicago when I was 8, and assisted a<br />

magician. I helped catch a "predator" when I was 9. I used to write<br />

for the now defunct website theouterpost.org, creating short rants<br />

and articles regarding pop culture. I've also managed to find<br />

Wlado several times over.


Jessica Stuhlmiller<br />

5 th Grade, Jamaica<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

Family<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I love to help others and I love to learn. I love the craft of teaching.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

Boating, jogging, swimming, shopping, dogs, snowboarding, decorating,<br />

playing soccer and softball.


Andrew Branchik<br />

English, LHHS<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

Girlfriend and I decided to slow down a bit from the hectic Phoenix pace.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

Grew up in the schools with both of my parents as teachers in our<br />

local district.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Athletics, biking, hiking or anything active.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

Originally from Akron, OH.


Tony Meli<br />

Math, LHHS<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

My parents moved here in 1972 and I moved along with them.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

My brother and one of my sisters were teachers and I admired<br />

what they did. I wanted to follow in their footsteps.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Traveling, gardening, and visiting with family.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I graduated from LHHS in 1975 and taught at there for 29 years. I<br />

have been retired for the past four years. I could not pass up the<br />

opportunity to come back and teach students again for the math<br />

department!


Nora Hester-Bowman<br />

1 st Grade, Starline<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

After putting 4 years into my local district, the economy continued<br />

to go down the hill leaving me with the realization that teaching full<br />

time was not going to be a reality and time soon. Also seeing what<br />

the school district has to offer my own children verses what is<br />

offered in San Diego.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the field of<br />

teaching?<br />

After graduating college, I took a job as a juvenile Probation Officer. It was<br />

then that I realized I wanted to work with them on the other side of the fence.<br />

Most of the minors on probation were severely lacking an education and<br />

anyone to believe in them. By putting my passion into education, I could<br />

make a positive impact on students and inspire them to develop their<br />

education and passion for a better life. Having an education effectively helps<br />

deter people from entering a life of crime.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

I enjoy being with my friends and family. I enjoy reading and learning,<br />

especially about ancient history. I love floating down the river in my boat,<br />

going fast in my buggy at the desert and rock crawling in the local off road<br />

terrain.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I have played the piano since I was five.


Lindsay Caron<br />

3 rd Grade, Oro Grande<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

A teaching job<br />

Encouraging children<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Working out and reading<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I am also a TIG Welder


Kris Dukic<br />

Social Studies, LHHS<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

Attended a Job fair at Michigan State. I enjoy meeting new<br />

people and experiencing new things!!<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the field of<br />

teaching?<br />

I have always loved teaching and loved interaction with students/kids. I was also<br />

a student who did not enjoy the high school classroom experience which<br />

motivated me to become a teacher that was entertaining and easy to learn from.<br />

Teaching is a tool that can be used in many different ways and the idea of<br />

impacting children on different levels is exciting and motivating.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I enjoy being active, playing sports, meeting people, and trying new<br />

adventures. I love coaching and being apart of extracurricular activities.


Erika Fetterman<br />

2 nd Grade, Oro Grande<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

My parents moved here and I followed<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

My son went into kindergarten and I loved teaching him at home<br />

and seeing him learn at school.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

Reading, watching TV, sleeping.


Jacqueline Murphy<br />

Pre-<strong>School</strong>, Smoketree<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I learned about <strong>Havasu</strong> through a recruitment day and I fell in love! The area<br />

is just beautiful and the atmosphere is relaxing. I liked that this district is so<br />

focused on helping the students AND teachers succeed.<br />

I had a few great teachers in my elementary school and wanted to<br />

be able to make that impact on children. I want to be a role model<br />

to inspire my students to continue learning and achieve their<br />

dreams.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

I enjoy singing and participating in theatre. I also enjoy reading and relaxing<br />

with friends and family.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I am originally from Elmira, <strong>New</strong> York.


Tim Havens<br />

Math, LHHS<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I was unable to find any jobs in <strong>New</strong> York State, and I felt empty not being<br />

able to fully utilize my teaching degree. My girlfriend heard about <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Havasu</strong> I was inspired by one of my high school math teachers, Mr. Nelson<br />

openings during a teacher recruitment fair in NY state, and she started giving Beebe, to go into teaching. As a student, I always took math much<br />

it some thought. I decided that, career-wise, there was virtually nothing for me more seriously/personal, so I hoped that teaching would be a<br />

in NY state, and I decided to take a risk and apply to <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Havasu</strong>. I'm hoping natural fit. I'm hoping I can find my niche and honor Mr. Beebe's<br />

that this will be the change of pace I need, and the jumpstart that my life<br />

memory as well.<br />

desperately needs.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

I don't have many. Sadly, I'm sort of a couch potato. I enjoy a multitude of movies and<br />

television shows, as well as going to the movies. I follow the NBA fairly closely, and my<br />

guilty pleasure is WWE (wrestling). I know it would be good for me to become more<br />

active, but it's a work-in progress.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that<br />

you would like to share?<br />

I'm very introverted, but I mean well.


Matt Novak<br />

6 th Grade, Starline<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

I wanted a job where I could start my professional teaching career. I have<br />

grandparents that are snowbirds and brought me down during my senior year<br />

in high school. So when it came to applying to various school districts, <strong>Lake</strong><br />

<strong>Havasu</strong> <strong>Unified</strong> <strong>School</strong> <strong>District</strong> was at the top of my list.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I wanted to deeply impact the lives of students in a positive<br />

manner. I pride myself on being a role model and look to be a<br />

positive influence for all students that I come into contact with.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I play ice hockey (not in <strong>Havasu</strong>) and video games. I enjoy going to the<br />

movies and the dog park with my dog Eddy. I also enjoy spending time with<br />

my wife Brittany and watching The Detroit Red Wings during hockey season.


Tiffany McClintock<br />

6 th Grade, Smoketree<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

Once I saw the posting for <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Havasu</strong> teaching positions, I decided to When I was a student I always enjoyed learning and told myself<br />

research and see what <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Havasu</strong> was like. From the pictures of the that I never wanted to be done with school. During college I was a<br />

beautiful city, lake, and mountains I knew it looked like a beautiful community. Resident Assistant and I found myself planning more educational<br />

Then I looked at the average temperatures and I wanted to escape the programs and making more education bulletin boards compared to<br />

extreme cold that is brought on by Wisconsin fall and winter seasons. Then I most of my team members. This helped support my passion for<br />

went to the <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Havasu</strong> school district website and loved what I found out teaching and throughout my student teaching I had a lot of<br />

about the different schools.<br />

moments that confirmed I wanted to teacher for the rest of my life.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

A hobby of mine is playing volleyball, disc golf, basketball, soccer, and many<br />

other sports. Other hobbies include reading, running, biking, hiking, watching<br />

a variety of movies, and listening to music.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I have a huge passion for researching and reading about the<br />

Titanic. Another interesting fact is that my favorite animal is a<br />

penguin. Lastly, I am from West Salem, Wisconsin.


Kevin Whalen<br />

Special Education, TBolt<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

A desire for a new adventure across the country brought me to <strong>Havasu</strong>. I also<br />

saw a picture of the lake and was hooked.<br />

I have always enjoyed helping others, and I had such amazing<br />

teachers influence my life that I was drawn to the profession.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I have a strong passion for sports, and will continue to cheer on my Detroit<br />

teams in Arizona. I also enjoy snowboarding, camping and being active.


Courtney Bogino<br />

3/4 Split, Oro Grande<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I went to a teacher recruitment day in Buffalo, NY, signed up for an interview,<br />

went home to research the area and fell in love with the city and school<br />

district! It is a beautiful city and I am extremely excited to begin my teaching<br />

career in such a beautiful city!<br />

I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a teacher but my<br />

fifth grade teacher was the main person who motivated and<br />

encouraged me to go into the field of teacher. She is a wonderful<br />

role model and is the type of teacher that I strive to be. I have<br />

always wanted to be in a profession where I can motivate students<br />

to enjoy learning and teach them to be a creative individual.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

My hobbies are outside activities, reading, and being with friends and family.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I graduated from Canisius College in Buffalo, NY in 2010 and<br />

received my masters degree in Differentiated Instruction in 2011.


Dustin Zampogna<br />

Science, TBolt<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the field of teaching?<br />

An opportunity to teach in a leading district in the state as<br />

well as become an active member of a tight knit<br />

community.<br />

"Growing up I had a lot of family members who were teachers. Therefore being around<br />

teaching and education my whole life ultimately led me to a career in education. Along<br />

with family, being a positive role model is something that is very important to me. There<br />

are not many professions where you have the opportunity have a chance to be an<br />

active role model on an everyday basis. Therefore education was the correct fit for me.<br />

I am looking forward to having the opportunity to be a positive role model in such a<br />

great school district. "<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Coaching, Sports, Drums, Family and Friends.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I am a huge fan of the Buffalo Bills, and Buffalo Sabres.


Ginger Balboni<br />

Special Education, LHHS<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

My Husband and his job.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I loved working with children and feel that I can make positive<br />

impacts in mathematics and students.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Anything outdoors, camping, reading and sports.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

That I love life and try to enjoy every moment.


Courtney Kryszak<br />

Kindergarten, Smoketree<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

As soon as I looked into the <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Havasu</strong> school district, I instantly fell in<br />

love! The district's dedication to its students and strong ties to the<br />

community were definitely areas that caught my attention. The<br />

opportunity to teach in a district which has similar goals as me is a dream<br />

come true! The beautiful weather was also a positive as well :)<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the field<br />

of teaching?<br />

I have known that I wanted to become a teacher since I was a young<br />

child! I have had some amazing teachers throughout my schooling who<br />

have had such a positive impact on me. My parents also played a<br />

strong role in my life, by instilling strong values in education. I want to<br />

also have an impact on the lives of young children, and truly make a<br />

difference. I love having the opportunity to see children grow and<br />

develop. I strongly feel that teaching is the most rewarding profession!<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

I enjoy playing all sports, especially softball and basketball. I would love to<br />

have the opportunity to coach softball in the near future in the community! I<br />

also enjoy reading, going shopping, and watching football on Sundays!<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I am originally from Buffalo, <strong>New</strong> York :)


Devin Mann<br />

Kindergarten, <strong>Havasu</strong>pai<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

The appeal of the lake and the scenery.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I wanted to be a teacher because I have always had a special<br />

connection with students, and I love to help children learn.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I like to play volleyball and read in my spare time.


Kelsey Gibbs<br />

Kindergarten, Jamaica<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

I moved to <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Havasu</strong> when I was in 5th grade, after going away to college I<br />

knew I wanted to come back and start my career.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I have always wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl and<br />

was motivated because of the wonderful role models throughout<br />

the years.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I enjoy reading and doing artsy activities. My theory is that if it can be collaged<br />

then it should be!!


Jeremy Wojcicki<br />

Math, LHHS<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

An opportunity to pursue a career in my field of mathematics education.<br />

The opportunity to take my experiences and education to better<br />

the lives of the children of the future.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

I enjoy playing and watching several sports. I consider my to be a movie and<br />

music buff, I listen and watch several genres of both. I like being outdoors and<br />

enjoying what the outdoors has to offer.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I am from the east coast and I am a diehard Buffalo sports fan.


Jacqueline Jensen<br />

English, LHHS<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

I ventured to <strong>Havasu</strong> after I was offered a teaching position at the high school.<br />

I was excited for a new opportunity and was pleased that I would be teaching<br />

at the high school level.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I have always had a passion for my content and knew that I<br />

wanted to enter a field which allowed me the opportunity to foster<br />

my passion and share it with others (students).<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I enjoy creative writing, volleyball, eating delicious food, laughing, and<br />

spending time with my closest friends and family.


Stephanie Hill<br />

Art, Oro Grande<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

I went to a teacher fair at Central Michigan University and had a small<br />

interview with the <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Havasu</strong> representatives.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

My mom was a special ed teacher for elementary and I was<br />

always in her room helping. I really enjoyed working with children<br />

and decided to pursue it.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Reading, writing, movies, croquet.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

Currently I am writing my first YA (Young Adult) novel and plan to<br />

have it published once I have completed writing it.


Sharron Mott<br />

2 nd Grade, <strong>Havasu</strong>pai<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

I was born and raised. Life hasn't moved me yet.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

Knowing that I can make a difference in the life of a student and<br />

hopefully give them a spark of hope to do something they never<br />

thought they could.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

My hobbies are spending time with my family here in town, reading, and being<br />

actively involved in my church.


Raichel Nutt<br />

Kindergarten, Starline<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I moved here a year and a half ago because my husband lived here.<br />

I just really enjoy working with children and seeing that "light bulb"<br />

go off.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

sports, outdoor activities, reading, spending time with my family


Nancy Schweigert<br />

Science, LHHS<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

I was recruited to come here to teach in the high school science department,<br />

and was willing to make the move from PA to AZ. I'm SO glad we (me,<br />

husband, & dogs) did!!<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I enjoyed giving seminars to engineers in my previous employment<br />

and also wanted to enter the coaching profession, so what better<br />

way to do both than to get into teaching? - teaching is coaching<br />

and vice versa.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

like to share?<br />

"I was part of an NCAA championship women's basketball team<br />

and named to the Kodak All-American Team, which is comprised<br />

Cycling, fitness/exercise, hiking, traveling (camping), animal-lover, collecting<br />

of the top 10 players in the United States. I was a professional<br />

memorabilia from places we have visited, Ohio State football games, watching<br />

cyclist for two years. I NEVER would have dreamed that I'd be<br />

NCAA hoops<br />

living in Arizona and teaching high school students, but I'm grateful<br />

for the opportunity!"


Shawna Smith<br />

3 rd Grade, Starline<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I have lived in <strong>Havasu</strong> for over 23 years, on and off. I moved to Spokane, WA I love working with children and making a difference in people's<br />

to attend Eastern Washington University and found myself missing the sun lives. I have witnessed the power of education to transform lives<br />

and family! I began applying for teaching positions as soon as I graduated and and want to help my students develop the skills that will lead them<br />

luckily got a position at the same school that I attended from K-6th grade!!!<br />

to be life-long learners.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

I love to read. I like to cook and entertain family and friends. I enjoy decorating<br />

my home and being creative and resourceful.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I believe that a person is never too old to learn something new or<br />

pursue a new endeavor in life. Although I am well into adulthood, I<br />

still have many adventures I want to embark on and dreams I<br />

would like to see come to fruition!!


Karla Desper<br />

Early Childhood, LHHS<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

recently got married<br />

I wanted to make a difference!<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

snow skiing, bike riding, collecting quilts<br />

From Texas... Yeeha!


Lisa Morrison<br />

6 th Grade, Nautilus<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

Teaching!<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

When I was undecided for a semester during college, at the time I<br />

was working at a math and reading center, and found so much joy<br />

when the children would have those "a-ha" moments..I knew this is<br />

what I wanted to do!<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

Hiking, fishing, traveling, card games, camping


Sean Tunnell<br />

Science, LHHS<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the field of teaching?<br />

My wife got a job as an EMT at River Medical.<br />

I had several people tell me I'm a good teacher, I enjoyed teaching as a missionary<br />

in Sao Paulo, Brazil, where I saw people make huge strides in their lives. I also love<br />

analyzing the roots of ideas and emotions, which results in being able to express<br />

myself clearly and reach people personally.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

I enjoy watching movies on my 123" projector screen, reading<br />

books at the library, baking with a solar oven, serving in my<br />

church, and tinkering with programming and electronics<br />

projects.<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would like to share?<br />

I co-wrote a program to solve the Eternity II puzzle, which is a 16 x 16 grid of<br />

square tiles each with unique patterns on each side. Place all 256 pieces so all the<br />

sides match to win one-million dollars. We didn't solve it, but we designed a<br />

solution algorithm that was extremely efficient and could be split to run on several<br />

processors simultaneously. The puzzle has never been solved, but it would be cool<br />

to solve it, even though the contest is over.


Roger Cole<br />

PE, Starline<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

Wife needed to move to the area for health reasons<br />

To make a difference in the life of children<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

"Soccer, Sports, computers, travel, dance and music...anything active"<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

Have a background in architecture, athletic training: MBA with<br />

certification in Sports Management, Owned two businesses<br />

(Magazine and Ice Cream Shop), Had a professional soccer<br />

tryout, have coached high school and college soccer, started club<br />

team here in town. There's a lot more just ask.


Tabitha Franz-Hathaway<br />

Kindergarten, Jamaica<br />

No picture<br />

available<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

My parents moved here.<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

I've wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl. My mom is a<br />

teacher, and I have taught preschool for 15 years.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

I enjoy taking my children on fun excursions; the park, hiking, the lake, etc.


Alex Gay<br />

Science, LHHS<br />

No picture<br />

available<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

Family<br />

I originally got into teaching after I began coaching and realized<br />

that I enjoyed working with children.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

Sports, reading, internet surfing<br />

I am super cool.


Phil Sonderman<br />

Science, LHHS<br />

No picture<br />

available<br />

What brought you to <strong>Havasu</strong>?<br />

What encouraged, motivated or prompted you to go into the<br />

field of teaching?<br />

Residence<br />

Interest in young people, and their education.<br />

What are your hobbies?<br />

Are there any other interesting facts about you that you would<br />

like to share?<br />

Science and Technology.


Additional <strong>New</strong> <strong>Teachers</strong>:<br />

• Alyssa Hengel – Special Education, TBolt<br />

• Samantha Perez – Language Arts, TBolt<br />

• Tiffany Lassiter – Social Studies, TBolt<br />

• Christina Klataske – Kindergarten, Starline<br />

• Alexandra Anderson – Language Arts, TBolt<br />

• Emily Graves – 1 st Grade, Starline<br />

• Derek Kuch – Language Arts, TBolt<br />

• Athena Cota – Kindergarten, Smoketree

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