Education Background: Bachelors in Math Education from UNI. Masters in Culturally Responsive Leadership and Instruction from Drake
Current Role: Geometry, AP Computer Science Principles
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: Watching students grow throughout the years.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: Watch the Hawkeyes or Lakers! Xbox. Running.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: Started at Roosevelt out of college and am going into my 8th year.
Andrea (Nicki) Atwood
Teacher, Physical Education
Education Background: University of Northern Iowa: PE/Health/Coaching
Courses you teach: Physical Education
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The people
What hobbies or things you do in your free time: Hiking, cycling, and spending time with my son and daughter
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 3 years
Education Background: BA in Mathematics Teaching from the University of Northern Iowa.
Current Role: Algebra 1, Intro to Statistics
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: Diversity
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: I enjoy going on walks with my family, camping, gardening, and baking.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 2 years
My name is Natalie Berry. I graduated from Roosevelt and attended the University of Iowa receiving a BA in History /Social Studies, English, and Reading Education Endorsements. I currently teach English 1 at Roosevelt to freshman. I love being a teacher at Roosevelt and getting to know all the students who make up the amazing community of Roosevelt. I am so proud to be a Roosevelt alumnus and to be back teaching at the school I was so lucky to be a part of.
Current Role: English 1
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: I love all getting to know all of the students who bring their own unique experiences and perspectives to our learning community. I also love the girls cross country team, orchestra, and Sharks, since I was so lucky to be a part of them when I was in high school.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: I love to run, swim, ride my bike, read books and the newspaper, watch scary/old movies, cook, spend time outside, hangout with family and friends, and play the piano.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 22-23 School Year!
Education Background: Undergrad at Drake; Masters from Iowa State
Courses you teach: I teach Algebra 1 & AP Statistics
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The community pride.
What hobbies do you do in your free time: In my free time I like to read, golf, and attempt cooking.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 7 years.
Stephanie Brennan
Teacher, Family Consumer Science
I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Family and Consumer Sciences from Iowa State University. I also have a Master of Education degree in Educational Media, Design, and Technology. I also have over 30 post-degree courses relating to my content area.
I teach Child Development 1 and 2, Personal Health and Development, and Healthy Relationships in the Family and Consumer Sciences Department. I am SUPER passionate about teaching health and preparing my students to make healthy decisions for themselves now and in the future. My hope is that all my students leave my classroom feeling confident in their relationship with themselves and with others now and in the future.
I love everything about Roosevelt! The students are very diverse and come from all different types of backgrounds, which helps to foster a welcoming and vibrant classroom environment. The staff and administration are incredibly supportive and the community is fantastic! I love getting to teach in my own neighborhood where my own children go to school.
I love spending time with family including kids, Finnley and Rigby, and my husband Patrick. We love movies, good local restaurants and are super creative. I love to garden and have over 80 houseplants! We love to spend time in our beautiful backyard with our puppy Alice and love to do different projects in our 120-year-old Cottage Grove historic home. I am also really active in the Drake Neighborhood Association and Hanawalt Elementary PTA.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 22-23 School Year!
Educational Background: BS in Mathematics from the University of South Florida
Current Position: Math Teacher, AP Calculus, Pre-Calculus, Intro to Trig
Favorite thing about RHS: The welcoming attitude of the students.
Hobbies you enjoy in your free time: Reading, before Covid–going to Florida
Years at Roosevelt: 4 years, but I feel like this will be my second “real” year.
Kelly Cocks
Teacher, Special Education
Education Background: Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Northern Iowa with Degrees in Elementary and Special Education Strat II; Master’s Degree from Drake University in Culturally Responsive Leadership and Instruction.
Courses you teach: All Essential Elements courses to students on Alternate Assessment, including Math, Science, Reading, Language Arts, and Social Studies. Special Olympics, Unified Sports, and Best Buddies
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: I absolutely love the inclusive climate at Roosevelt and that everyone is so welcoming and encouraging. We are currently leading the country as a unified school and allowing all students with disabilities similar opportunities as their peers.
What hobbies or things you do in your free time: I love to travel the world and go to new countries, watch baseball, fish, and spend time with my husband and dogs, as well as the rest of my family!
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 4 years
Keresten Conn
Teacher, Family & Consumer Sciences
Education Background: Textiles and Clothing, ISU; Masters in Education
Courses: Foods and Nutrition 1, Foods and Nutrition 2
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: I am fortunate to have the best job! I have taught many FCS subjects in the past 20 years but I currently teach nutrition and food preparation. Students and the traditions that have been built here, but also the new traditions that have been developed like the Rider Pride event (just to name one of many). Another great thing is the diversity which allows us to learn a lot from each other.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: Searching out unique food events or restaurants, going to see live music, and spending time with family and friends.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 20 years
Richard Craft
Teacher, Special Education
Education Background: B.A. in U.S. and World History from Mount Mercy College; M.A. in Special Education from University of Iowa
Courses: Modern U.S. History
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: Of course, the history of Roosevelt High School. A classic building built in the 1920s. The many famous leaders that have walked our halls (check out the TRHS Hall of Fame!) And, of course, our diversity!
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: Bicycle Riding (Ragbrai anyone?) and Metal Detecting. Ask me about either one of these subjects and I’ll have some stories to tell!!!
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 15 years
Chidananda Dahal
Teacher, Math
Education Background: Bachelor of Science from University of Delhi, India; Bachelor of Education from Tribhuvan University, Nepal; ELL Empowerment from Grand View University, Iowa
Courses: Algebra 2, ELL Foundations in Mathematics
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: Diverse students body and cooperative staff
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: Community service and spend time with kids
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 3 years
Adam Daley
Teacher, Flex Academy Social Studies
Education Background: Morningside College, DMACC, Bemidji State University
Courses: All Social Studies courses; Flex Lab
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: I love the history of academic excellence here at Roosevelt.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: I enjoy trying out new restaurants and foods!
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 10 years
Micheal Davenport
Teacher, Drama & Speech/Social Studies
Education Background: BA, Secondary Education Social Studies and Theatre/Speech Communications (Grand View University). Currently pursuing continuing education in Gifted & Talented Education (Drake University) and Graduate studies in Curriculum & Instruction – Theatre Pedagogy (Oklahoma State University).
Courses: Psychology, African American Studies, Introduction to Theatre Art, Intermediate Theatre Art, Advanced Theatre Arts
My favorite part of Roosevelt: I love this community, love these students and their families. I am fortunate to be able to work with students from all walks of life and intersectionalities. My students know they are respected and valued as individuals in a safe, welcoming environment both in the classroom and on the stage. I am lucky to have been promoted, defended, and supported by the many students, alumni, and greater community.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: I don’t have much free time between leading our Theatre Department, staging multiple productions a year, attending IHSSA Speech competitions, and occasionally acting in local theatre, all whilst attending grad school and wrangling our toddler. When I am not at Roosevelt, I am likely with my son or helping my wife who is a Show Choir director in another district. During Spring and Summer breaks, our family enjoys extensive road trips across the country: visiting historical landmarks, Presidential birthplaces and libraries, and attending (performing at) comedy clubs as time allows.
How many years have you been at Roosevelt: The start of the 2021-2022 school year marks my 5th year with DMPS and at Theodore Roosevelt High School. I was previously at Southeast Polk for four years working at both the junior high and high school as the Musical Theatre director with the Vocal Music Department and Boosters organization
Keaton Denker
Long Term Substitute, Social Studies
Education Background: DMA Voice Performance and Pedagogy – University of Iowa, MM Voice Performance – University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, BA Music Education, BA Voice Pesiarformance – Bethel College
Current Role: Head Vocal Music, Asian Student Association sponsor
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The students!
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: Dancing, reading, working out
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 8 years
Timothy Dowler
Teacher, Social Studies
Education Background: BA, International Studies, American University, Washington, D.C. Master’s in Secondary Education, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA . I have been teaching for 20 years and prior to that I worked six years in Middle East affairs in Washington, D.C. I’ve also either briefly worked in or traveled to many countries around the world– including the Middle East, China, and even Eastern Europe before the Cold War ended. I still have vivid memories of seeing the Berlin Wall when it was still used to divide people.
Courses: Modern U.S. History
My favorite part of Roosevelt: As a teacher, I love bringing my passion and enthusiasm for global affairs to the students, always working to impart the importance of understanding international relations and how the modern-day world is rooted in history. At Roosevelt, I love the energy, enthusiasm, and inquisitive minds of my students, not to mention the silliness. I usually have students in my room from 8 am to 4:30 pm– many who just come by to say hello, or make sure I’m not bored during lunch (never dull at lunchtime).
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: When I’m at home, I am usually active with my wife and daughters– playing tennis, or planning out new trips as we are avid travelers. I’m also a wine collector and the story behind each of the regions where wine is grown. And just to be sure I’m not bored at home I have 4 cats who are always up to something.
How many years have you been at Roosevelt: 12 years
Alex Dunbar
Teacher, Social Studies
Education Background: AA DMACC, B.S.E. Drake University
Courses: Personal Economics, Global Black History, Indigenous/Native American Studies
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: I love the Roosevelt community!
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 2 years
Casey Dunley
ALP/Talented & Gifted Coordinator
Education Background: Bachelor of Science Degree in Education the University of Iowa; Master of Science in Education (Urban Education Cohort) from Drake University
Current Role: Gifted and Talented Consultant (GT Extended Learning Seminar, GT Leadership and Mentorship)
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: I grew up in the neighborhood. I have always loved Roosevelt and the community!
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: In my free time I love to travel, Scotland and Ireland are my favorite places. I love to learn new things. I also am trying to complete 50 5ks in five years.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 8 years
Lynn Eastman
Teacher, Special Education
Education Background: BA (triple major) UNI in French, Psychology, and Management; BA at UNI Secondary Education
Courses: Learning Transitions, Co-Teach ELA
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The diversity of both students and staff- I learn/experience something new all the time
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: Reading, camping, bird watching, needle crafts, gaming
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 21 years
Kimberly Evans
Teacher, Flex Academy Science
Education Background: AA DMACC; BA in Environmental Studies Simpson College; MA in Education Simpson
Courses: Flex Science
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The students!
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: Biking, gardening and spending time with my dog
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 2 years
Education Background: MA in Teaching from Drake University; BA in English from Nebraska Wesleyan University
Courses: English II and III
My favorite thing about Roosevelt: The students–their energy, creativity, and passion inspires me.
My hobbies I enjoy in my free time: Reading, cycling, cuddling with my cat (Pablo), and hiking with my dog (Rupert).
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 3 years
Dione Ferguson
Teacher, Special Education/Math
Education Background: BA in Biology from Simpson MA in Education from Simpson
Courses that I teach: Earth Science and Biology
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: I think Roosevelt has the best students, teachers, and admin!
What hobbies or things do you do in your free time: My hobbies are breeding/showing CFA Exotic Shorthairs- type of cat, raising chickens, and making fancy event cakes.
How many years have you been at Roosevelt: Since 2019
Kathryn Galligan
Teacher, Science
Background Education: BA in Chemistry Education, UNI Masters in Educational Administration – ISU
Courses: Chemistry/AP Chemistry
What do you love about Roosevelt: Love the diversity of the student population at Roosevelt!
How many years have you been at Roosevelt: Teaching since 1984 – ALL at Theodore Roosevelt High School!
Katherine Gamble
Teacher, English
Terry Gioffredi
Teacher, Social Studies
Education Background: BA Social Science Education UNI 1985
Courses: US Government, Modern US History, Sociology
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The kids and people who work here.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: Spending time with family. I have 4 kids (three daughters and 1 son) and 5 grandkids. I enjoy attending the grandkids’ activities. Season ticket holder for Iowa football. Umpiring all levels of girls softball. Watching superhero movies, especially during the COVID-19 isolation. Finally, watching all types of sports especially college sports. Spending time outdoors. How long have you been at Roosevelt: 27 years since the flood of 1993. I have been here so long I have taught parents of current Roosevelt students, along with teaching several staff members.
Alexander Gray
Teacher, Vocal Music
Kimberly Harrison
Teacher, Special Education
Education Background: Buena Vista with a degree in Special Education K-12, additional certifications in Special Education from Drake University; Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Concordia University
Current Role: Special Education Teacher
Favorite thing about Roosevelt:
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: In my free time I enjoy spending time with grandchildren, gardening, reading, knitting or working on my paper crafts.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 13 years
Amy Headrick
Teacher, Special Education
Deborah (Smith) Henry
Teacher, Science
Education Background: BS Ed Drake MS Ed ISU
Courses you teach: Biology
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The students. They teach me new things every day!
What hobbies or things you do in your free time: Scrap booking, quilting, gardening, politics.
Courses you teach: Biology
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The students. They teach me new things every day!
What hobbies or things you do in your free time: Scrap booking, quilting, gardening, politics.
Years at Roosevelt: 10
Ruby Herrera
Teacher, Spanish / Latinos in Action
Ashley Hoegh
Teacher, Special Education
Education Background: Dordt College Instructional Strategist I-K through 12
Current Position: Instructional Strategist (Special Education), Biology and Earth Science
What do you love about Roosevelt: The kids are my favorite part about working at Roosevelt.
What do you enjoy to do in your free time: I enjoy reading, hiking, camping, watching the Hawkeyes and spending time with my family.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: This is my 3rd year.
Brandon Hope
Teacher, Business/ Assistant Activities Director
Educational Background: BA in Business from Briar Cliff University in 1996. MS in Educational Leadership from Drake University in 2010
Courses Currently Taught: Future Ready, Future Set, General Business, Intro to Business, Marketing Entrepreneurship, and Business Law.
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: Love how our building is filled with so many unique individuals, representing so many cultures and backgrounds, but we all come together as Roughriders!
What hobbies do you enjoy outside of school: Jack of all things, Master of none!
How many years have you been at Roosevelt: Fall of 2000, over 20 years.
Nicole (Krayneski) James
Teacher, Visual Arts
Michaella Kleinmeyer
Teacher, Science
Education Background: AA and AAS in Biology from Indian Hills Community College, Bachelor’s in Biology from Drake University, Master’s in Teaching from Simpson College.
Courses you teach: I teach Environmental Science and AP Environmental Science
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: Learning more about the diverse community!
What hobbies or things that I enjoy in my free time: In my free time I enjoy spending time with my husband, our son, and our three dogs! I like to go to the zoo, spend time in my backyard, as well as binge watch my favorite TV shows.
How long have I been at Roosevelt: This is my first year teaching.
Landon Klimesh
Teacher, Physical Education
Education Background: BA in Physical Education and Health from the University of Northern Iowa in 2019
Courses you teach: Physical Education – Team Games and Total Body Fitness
My favorite thing about Roosevelt: How welcoming and diverse the students and staff are
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: working out, biking, and watching and playing sports
How long have you been at Roosevelt: First year at Roosevelt
Parker Klyn
Teacher, Special Education & Speech/Debate Coach
Education Background: BSA: Political Science; M.Ed. Curriculum and Instruction; M.Ed. Educational Leadership
Current Position/teaching: Instructional Coach
What do you love about Roosevelt: I love working at Roosevelt because it has such a rich history. We have awesome students and staff who strive for excellence and contribute to ending injustice.
What do you enjoy to do in your free time: I love to watch scary movies and spend time with my husband and cat.
How many years have you been at Roosevelt: 4 years
Mary Pat LaMair
Teacher, Visual Arts
I received my BA from Colorado college and my MFA from the University of Colorado. Currently I am in my second year of Morningside’s Teacher Internship Program. This is my rookie year at Roosevelt. I am teaching Intro to 2D and 3D Design and 3D Design II. Prior to coming here I’ve taught at the University of Colorado, The Des Moines Art Center, and DMACC. My favorite thing about Roosevelt is the people. In my free time I love to get outside, spend time with my family, swim, and make art.
Jessica Lange
Teacher, Special Education
Educational Background: BA in History Teaching from the University of Northern Iowa in 2016 MS in Special Education from Drake University in 2019
Courses Currently Taught: Algebra Foundations III, Special Education Geometry, Math Transitions
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The wonderful students and staff!
What hobbies do you enjoy outside of school: Playing video games, watching anime, crocheting, and being with my wonderful husband, Branden.
How many years have you been at Roosevelt: Spring 2020 was my first semester at Roosevelt.
Cassidy Maher
Long Term Teaching Sub
Associative Arts from Iowa Central Community College
Bachelor of Music from The University of Iowa
Master of Arts in Teaching from Coe College
Teaches: Band and Jazz Band
I love the community that Roosevelt is a part of!
Hobbies: Ride my motorcycle and jeep, woodworking, hunting and shooting, fishing, working around the acreage
Been at Roosevelt since 1998
Antonio Mazuecos
Teacher, World Languages
I am originally from Spain and moved to the US five years ago. I received my BA in Physical Education and Sports sciences, and Master’s degree in Education from the Universidad Politecnica of Madrid, Spain. I got my Native Language Teaching Authorization by Iowa Board of Education in 2019 and my certificate to teach AP Spanish in the summer of 2020.
I’ve lived in Iowa for one year now, previously teaching Spanish at East High School. Prior to that I was living in Jackson, MS, where I taught Spanish and coached soccer.
This year is my first year at Roosevelt, where I will be teaching Spanish II and Spanish III.
Although I’m new, thus far my favorite thing about Roosevelt is the wonderful and supportive staff, as well as the strong sense of community.
In my spare time I enjoy playing sports, working out, and watching movies. I am also a big fan of Real Madrid, a Spanish soccer team.
Background Education: BS Finance – Drake Secondary Ed – Upper Iowa SPED endorsement – Upper Iowa
Currently teaching: I teach Government, Econ, Environmental Science
What I love about Roosevelt: I enjoy the many different kinds of people I get to meet at Roosevelt.
What do you enjoy to do in your free time: In my free time I play/coach sports with my kids enjoy going to the gym to work out!
How long have you been at Roosevelt: Been at Roosevelt for 14 years
Fatma Musharafa
Teacher, Science
Class Description
Education Background: Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education, Minor in Health Education from UNI
Current Role: Physical Education Teacher
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: My favorite thing about Roosevelt is the variety of students & athletes that I get to work with each day
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: I enjoy spending time with my girlfriend, watching football, and golfing
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 2022
Education Background: Bachelor of Science in History 2000, Teaching license in 2016, MA in educational leadership in 2021
Courses I teach: AP Human Geography / LGBTQ+ History/Inter-sectional Feminism/Independent Study Econ and Gov
What do you love about Roosevelt: I love the diversity of my students.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time: I teach yoga, hike, and road trip
How long have you been at Roosevelt: I have been at Roosevelt since 2016
Studied math and chemistry at University of Utah
Currently teach math in the Flex Academy
I love Roosevelt’s long tradition in Des Moines !
In my spare time I love to garden and to knit socks
I have been at Roosevelt since 2008
Education Background: Masters of Science in Culturally Responsive Pedagogy from Drake. Bachelor’s of Arts in English and a Bachelor’s of Science in Education from Drake.
Courses I Teach: AP Language and Composition, Writing 12, Contemporary Literature
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The kids and friendships with my colleagues
Hobbies: Playing with my three kids, hanging out with my husband, reading, working out
Years at Roosevelt: 2020/2021 will be my tenth year
Carlos Ramirez
Behavioral Interventionist
Education Background:
Current Role:
Favorite thing about Roosevelt:
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time:
How long have you been at Roosevelt:
Education Background: Bachelors degree from Grand View University in Applied Mathematics and Secondary Education
Courses I teach: Algebra II and ELL Algebra I
What I love about Roosevelt: I love the students and community at Roosevelt.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family, ALL sports, and drinking tea
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 3 years
I have a Masters of Education from Grand View with an ELL endorsement and a BA in English and Secondary Education from Grand View.
I teach ELL English 1 and the Newcomer ELL courses. This is my second year at Roosevelt.
I love teaching at Roosevelt because it is the school in my community, and I am passionate about teaching where I live. I love to see my students when I’m on a walk or at the grocery store. I love to read, listen to audiobooks, and go on walks with my dog.
David Schwendinger
Teacher, English
Education Background: BA in English from University of Iowa, BA in English Teacher from UNI, MA in Teaching at Viterbo
Courses: English 3
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: Our diversity and coaching boys’ cross country
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: Playing basketball, running, reading, home remodeling
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 2 years
Jennifer Seals
Teacher, Special Education
Ben Siebert
Long Term Substitute, Social Studies
Education Background: University of Iowa with a Major in Chemical Engineering; Masters in Education from Drake University
Courses: Biology and Chemistry
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The enthusiasm my students have for learning! I love seeing how my students embrace challenging science problems!
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: In my free time, I enjoy walking my dog Denver, doing yoga, reading, and cooking/baking.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 3 years
Education Background: I graduated from the University of Iowa with a Major in Chemical Engineering and then went on to get my Masters in Education from Drake University
Courses you teach: I currently teach chemistry and biologyMy favorite thing about Roosevelt: the enthusiasm my students have for learning! I love seeing how my students embrace challenging science problems! What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: In my free time, I enjoy walking my dog Denver, doing yoga, reading, and cooking/baking.How long have you been at Roosevelt: This is my first year at Roosevelt
Lindsey Smith
Teacher, Flex Lab English
Education Background:
Courses: AP Physics 1, Conceptual Physics, ELL Science, Science Bound
Favorite thing about Roosevelt:
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time:
How long have you been at Roosevelt:
Kalifornia Sotelo
Teacher, World Languages
Education Background: Bachelors Degree from Morningside College in Spanish and Special Education with endorsements in reading and coaching; Masters in Education Administration from Drake University
Courses: I teach Spanish 1
My favorite thing about Roosevelt: is the people in it!
What hobbies or things you do in your free time: I enjoy salsa dancing, working out and being with friends and family!
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 7 years
Education Background: Drake University- MS in Counseling / Personnel Services & WEC Endorsement Morningside: Instructional Strategist I Iowa State- BS in Elementary Education
Courses: Learning Transitions, Career Transitions, and Job Training
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: I love the students, families and the supportive environment we have for one another! Go Riders!!!
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: I enjoy spending time with my family and all outdoor activities including swimming and biking
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 7 years
Education Background: BA in Spanish, the University of Iowa MA in Language and Literature in Spanish, University of Northern Iowa
Courses you Teach: Spanish I, AP Spanish Language
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The sense of community I feel working with the students and staff.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: I love spending time with family, bike riding, and reading.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 6 years
Education Background: ESL Endorsement from Grand View College MA in Secondary Education from Adelphi University BA in English from Adelphi University Certificate in Acting from New York Academy for the Dramatic Arts
Courses: English 4
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The family atmosphere and the mix of the student body
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: Crafting, reading, and family time
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 14 years
Education Background:
Courses: English 1
Favorite thing about Roosevelt:
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time:
How long have you been at Roosevelt:
Julie Toscano
Teacher, Family & Consumer Science
Education Background: Iowa State University
Current Role: Future Ready and Fashion
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The students!
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: I love spending time with my family, going for walks with my dog, and doing photography.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 2 years
This is my first year at Roosevelt and I will be teaching Future Ready and Nutrition and Food Prep 1. I am so exited to get to know all the staff and students! I graduated from Iowa State University and went on to teach both FCS and ELL in other schools. Now I am working on my Master’s degree at Drake! In my free time I love spending time with my family, going for walks with my dog, and doing photography. Make sure to say hi if you see me around, I cannot wait to meet you!
Jessie Weishaar
Teacher, Social Science
Education Background: Undergraduate degree from Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, IA
Courses Taught: AP Psychology, U.S. Government
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: Roosevelt High School has an incredible student body, teaching staff, support staff and administrators. My own children are in the Roosevelt feeder!
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: Spending time with my friends and family.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 2 years
Kimberly Wermerskirchen
Teacher, Math
Education Background: B.S. from Central College in Math/Computer Science M.S. from Drake University in Education
Courses you teach: Geometry
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: The students are my favorite part about Roosevelt. I get to work with a talented group of teachers and young people every day
What hobbies or things you do in your free time: During my free time I like to go for walks with my dog Daisie, explore State and National Parks, ride bike, and create scrapbooks.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 5 years.
Sara Wodka
Avenue Scholars Career Coach
Education Background: Iowa State University, BA in History, Viterbo University, MA in Educational Leadership
Courses Taught: Modern U.S. History
Favorite thing about Roosevelt: That I get to work with a diverse group of students in the classroom and outside the classroom through teaching.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time: Love to go to live music events, theatre, sporting events, and decks on a summer afternoon.
How long have you been at Roosevelt: 30 years