Directory

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I am happy to say that I am a SMCS alum (2009)!

I attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison and earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Linguistics and a Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language. After graduating from UW-Madison, I taught English in a rural community in the Dominican Republic and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I then came back to Wisconsin to get my English Education degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

I have been teaching English at SMCHS since the fall of 2015 and have loved my experience being back in a Catholic education setting. My education interests include literature, speech & writing, as well as E-Learning. My husband and I were married in 2015. We love to travel and spend time with friends and family.

I am happy to say that in June 2020, we welcomed a baby boy into our family and we love being parents! I spend most of my free time running or playing/watching sports of any kind.

If you are around SMCHS enough, you will see me helping out in the fitness center or on the soccer field where I help out as an assistant coach.

I am originally from Darboy, Wisconsin and attended Catholic schools for my entire education. I went to Holy Spirit Catholic School through eighth grade and graduated from St. Mary Central High School in 2010. I received two degrees, one in Mathematics and the other in Elementary Education from St. Norbert College in 2014. In the fall of 2014, I joined the math department at SMC, where I teach Algebra I, Algebra II, and Math Fundamentals. I also assist with the Math team, am the head coach of the Forensics team, assistant coach of the Softball team, and serve as the Freshman Class Moderator.

It is a privilege to return to my alma mater and share the joy of learning and faith I received with others. Having attended Catholic schools I know the rewards you receive through life lessons, spiritual guidance, and the excellent camaraderie obtained by attending a school that values faith and education together.

Currently, I live in Neenah with my husband, Troy, our two dogs, and cat. I enjoy sitting down with a good book and also watching movies. In the summer I enjoy camping and bike riding, but in the winter I love to go sledding and build snowmen. I look forward to another fantastic year!

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(920) 727-0279 ext. 500

Hello, I am an alumni of SMCS graduating in 1995. I have bachelor of science degree from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh in urban and regional studies. I worked in my families construction business until 2011 when I began work for UWO in maintenance. I started working at St Mary’s in 2016 and I am very happy to be here.

I am married to my wonderful wife Jenny and I have three children; Ben, Katherine, and Hannah. They are all enrolled in SMCS and love their school.

I started teaching German part-time at SMCHS in 2007. We now have five levels of German, including CAPP German (dual college credit class through UW-O), and I also sometimes teach ESL for our growing number of international students. I am currently the World Languages Department Chair, the German Club Advisor, the coordinator for the SMCHS Global Scholars Program through the Wisconsin DPI, and the Sophomore Class Advisor.

I grew up in a small town in South Dakota; I earned my B.A. in German Education at South Dakota State University. Before and after graduate school at Indiana University, I studied and taught in Germany and Austria for over two years through scholarship programs. Living overseas really taught me to be more appreciative of differences in other cultures. I have enjoyed taking several educational trips with students to help them grow in their own understanding of German-speaking cultures. My family loves to travel, too! The students learning German at SMCS enjoy a special camaraderie. Every year, they look forward to various cultural events, like Spaghettieis (spaghetti ice cream) or the German Christkindlmarkt in Chicago.

There are various opportunities to use German outside of class, too; we host the NE Wisconsin Regional German Speaking Contest, students can participate in the National AATG German Exam, German Day at UW-Madison (with several competitions) or even attend the Concordia Language Villages in Minnesota. Our newest challenge for the students is the chance to earn the Certificate of Global Competence through our Global Scholars Program.

SMCHS offers great opportunities to any student who is interested in getting involved in any aspect of high school life, whether it’s academics, sports, clubs, service or faith activities.

Pamela Barnhill has been the Director of Bands for St. Mary Catholic Middle and High School since 2015. She received her Bachelor of Music Degree from Lawrence University in 2007 and has been teaching and performing in the Fox Valley ever since.

Mrs. Barnhill loves to make the band classrooms of SMCS high energy, positive places to learn and make music together and enjoys giving her students the opportunity to experience many different ways to create music.

When not teaching, Mrs. Barnhill enjoys spending time with her husband Michael and their two dogs, Lily and Archer. She is a dedicated triathlete and even spent 12 years skating with our local roller derby league.

I have been a math teacher at SMC since 2016 and have loved every minute of it. I graduated from Carthage College with a major in Mathematics and a minor in secondary education.

I have been married to my husband since 2010 and we have three beautiful children; Seneca (2012), Blake (2014), and Max (2019).

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920-722-7796 ext. 123

Eric Conner has been the Fine Arts Director for St. Mary Catholic Schools since 2021. He received a degree in Music Education – Choral from UW Eau Claire and taught choir for seven years prior to joining the team at SMCS. Eric oversees all fine arts extra curriculars at SMCS and facilitates the events inside the Jane Bergstrom Fine Arts and Education Center. For more information on fine arts and opportunities at SMCS, please visit smcsfinearts.org.

As a youngster I attended Immaculate Conception grade school in Milwaukee, and my parents moved to Appleton in ’78 which allowed me to attend St. Bernadette through grade eight. In 1986, I graduated from Appleton East High School. From there I attended UW – Fox Valley in Menasha. After earning an Associate’s degree, I transferred to UW – Milwaukee where I pursued a Bachelor’s of Arts degree majoring in English. Following that I attended both UW – Oshkosh and UW – Green Bay where I earned credits in education, eventually a teaching certificate, and a Wisconsin license. In 2000, I completed a Master’s of Arts degree from Marian University with a focus on Educational Technology. My teaching career began in 1995.

Generally over the summer I focus on preparing for the AP and CAPP courses by attending either the Advanced Placement Summer Institute at UW – Madison or enrolling in graduate courses at UW – Oshkosh.

Currently, I live in Appleton with my wife, three children, and Goldendoodles – Bailey & Ollie. Scouting occupies many hours with both Boy Scouts and Venture Crew. In my free time I enjoy reading, writing, playing guitar, and running. I have completed the Boston Marathon, Chicago Marathon three times, Fox Cities Marathon numerous times as a pacer, and the Eagle River Marathon.

¡Muy buenas! My name is Caitlin Fritsch and I have been a Spanish teacher for SMCS since 2010. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh in 2010 with a degree in Spanish Education, English as a Second Language, and Bilingual Education. I have enjoyed continuing my education by taking classes in technology and attending world language conferences, seminars, and workshops to improve my teaching techniques and strategies as a language teacher.

In my free time, I love to run, and spend time with my family. One of our favorite things to do is walk our dog together! We also love to go up north and fish, bike, swim, kayak, make S’mores around a campfire, and watch outdoor movies on the projector! I also enjoy traveling and have gone to places such as Spain (to study abroad), Costa Rica (with SMCS students!), Mexico, Puerto Rico, France, and many islands in the Caribbean.

I am thrilled to be at SMCS for another amazing year! It is wonderful to see such well-rounded and kind-hearted students come into my classroom. Being in a faith-filled school is a major factor in helping students grow to be caring, loving, intelligent, faithful adults and I am so happy to be a part of it!

Please feel free to contact me at any time if you have any questions or concerns!

I joined SMCS in December of 2011.

My favorite part of working here can be seen on the wall across from the front office “Be it known to all who enter that Christ is the reason for this school”.

I have been teaching Theology at SMCS since 2004 and have been in youth ministry for 35 years ever since I studied Theology and Youth Ministry at Cardinal Stritch College. Walking the faith journey with teenagers is my passion. Currently I teach Apologetics, Prayer and Relationship, Suffering and Death, Theology of the Body and Morality.

I have a Great Pyraneese/Golden Retriever mix named Cooper who is a gentle giant of a dog. I enjoy camping, hiking the Ice Age Trail, Swimming, embroidery and deep talks with anyone interested in delving into the mysteries of life and death.

My only goal in life is to always follow the will of God. Sometimes He doesn’t make that known until the 11th hour!

I have been teaching at SMC for more than 2 decades after having graduated from Lawrence University in Appleton. I have taught over a dozen different courses at SMC in both the math and science departments although now I am strictly in the science department focusing on the physical sciences including Science 9, Chemistry and AP Chemistry. I am the administrator of PowerSchool for the high school for both students and teachers side.

In my free time I enjoy reading, cooking, baking and crafting (cross stitch and felt kit projects). My goals for this year are to become proficient in split classroom teaching using my cart I have named Bob.

I am originally from Weyauwega, WI. I graduated from St. Norbert College in 2017 with a degree in Physics. In the fall of 2017, I joined the science department, where I primarily teach physics and engineering.

I have been part of St Mary Catholic Schools since the Spring of 1999 when I became part of the coaching staff for the track team. After that season I was able to procure a job within the school system as a high school social studies teacher. Since that time many things have changed except for the fact that I still enjoy being part of a system in which faith, academics, and extra curricular activities can be combined.

Within the high school, I teach all grade levels primarily working with freshmen and then select electives to the other grade levels. Class names have changed over the years, but my core aspects are world history, geography, and psychology. Each class is unique, but thematically they relate to our world and how it functions based on people and decisions past and present.

I have also coached many different sports within the high school community including boys and girls track, girls volleyball at all levels, and girls basketball at the freshmen and varsity levels. I was lucky enough to be part of State trips for my track athletes and State in 2008 and 2009 for the girls basketball team. Each of those memories are amazing and I feel blessed to have been part of all experiences.

I graduated from Flambeau High School in Northwest Wisconsin and then attended Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin. While there I participated all four years in the basketball and track programs.

Today, I still enjoy athletics although watching and coaching high school athletics is more my speed. I also enjoy traveling with my husband, Jack, and his children. We hope to some day see every Major League Baseball Stadium! Wish us luck!

My name is Mrs. Opsteen-Van Dyke, or Mrs. OVD, as the students call me. I attended the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, earning a degree in Elementary Education 1-8 and English 1-9. I have been teaching freshmen English and religion at SMCHS since 2014. Prior to joining the SMCS family, I taught English, literature, and religion at the middle school level for ten years and second grade for three years. All of my teaching experience has been in Catholic education because I believe I have been called to share my faith with the many students who have passed through my doors.

I am blessed to be part of the SMCS Catholic community as I strive to show what faith in Christ can do in one’s life. In addition to classroom teaching, I am also able to share my faith and love of music by directing and accompanying the liturgical choir for school Masses.

When I am not teaching, I am spending time with my family—my husband, Jon, and my daughter, Emmaline. As a family we are active at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Kimberly/Darboy where we share our musical gifts with our parish family. Additionally, we enjoy camping, hiking, biking, geocaching, and snowshoeing. We also are passionate about traveling to national parks and Great Lakes lighthouses. To date, we have seen nearly 300 lights of the Great Lakes! Our love of the outdoors has led to some exciting volunteer opportunities including working at checkpoints for sled dog races and joining the Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands with whom we work to preserve the natural resources and lighthouse stations on the islands located off the tip of Door County.

As Eleanor Roosevelt said, “The purpose of life, after all, is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.” In addition to grammar and theology, I hope my students leave my classroom having learned this lesson from me.

My name is Marilyn Peterson. I am a math teacher at St. Mary Catholic. I attended Eastern Illinois University and graduated with a major in mathematics and a minor in physics. I have taught since 1983 and I began at SMCHS in the fall of 2007. I am married and have three adult children, one boy and twin daughters. In my spare time I love to read and cook. I teach Honors Geometry, Advanced Math, Pre-Calculus, Trigonometry, Calculus I and II, AP Calculus AB, and AP Calculus BC. I am an advisor for the Math team, and the Senior Moderator. I also have implemented practice sessions for ACT for the students at SMCHS. I think SMCHS is a wonderful place for both students and staff. For students the smaller class sizes allow you to work closely with your classmates as well as teacher. Also there are many opportunities to participate in a variety of activities. For staff the closeness I feel with my students and coworkers really makes a family atmosphere.

My philosophy on education is very simple. I want to challenge students and watch them grow to their full potential. I want to take students at different levels and see them develop together for the betterment of each individual. I want to teach students in a way that has some straightforward instruction but that also gives students room to grow and expand on their own learning. In other words, it is not just about learning math it is much more about life lessons. I also feel that as an educator, it is important not only to help the students that you are teaching, but also give them direction to help others. Participating in community service projects allows you to connect more with the community outside of SMC. I also enjoy my students and everything they have to offer. I want students to know that even when there is a struggle there is always a way to fix the problem. Everybody can learn, sometimes you have to work harder at a concept. It is not about what you don’t know; it is about what you are going to do when you have a problem. No matter what, you have the power to make change.

Hello, my name is Peter Post. I attended the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse where I completed my Bachelor of Science Degree in 2003 and my Master of Science Degree in 2013. My area of study was Exercise and Sport Science, and I have teaching licenses in Pre-K through grade 12 in Health Education, Physical Education and Adapted Physical Education. In addition, I have been involved in SMCS leadership since 2018, and I recently completed my Administrative Leadership program through Silver Lake College in June 2020.

What I enjoy most about St. Mary Catholic Schools is the ability to help our students create a lifestyle that promotes faith, academics and service to others. I also take great pride providing our students and staff with learning experiences that will directly promote their quality and quantity of life. Our graduates experience high levels of success in all that they take on in their lifetime.

When I am not teaching, I enjoy hiking, biking, swimming and skiing with my wife Colleen (Coughlin Class of 1995) and our 3 children Ashton, Gavin, and Audra. Our 3 children attend St. Mary Catholic Schools, and this year I will have a student at all 3 educational levels. When we are not in schools, we enjoy time as a family traveling and exploring. Our favorite places to travel for outdoor activities include many locations throughout Wisconsin especially Lake Michigan water front, Michigan’s UP, and all of the rocky mountain states.

My name is Trisha Schneider. I am the system librarian for SMCS. I graduated from UW-Oshkosh in 2000 with a dual degree in regular education and special education certification for PK-3 and a minor in math. I continued my education with a Masters of Library and Information Science, graduating in 2008 from UW-Milwaukee. I started teaching in the SMCS system in 2000 at the kindergarten level for St. Margaret Mary. I also taught 4K and Preschool at the St. Margaret Mary campus before I took over the system position in the library.

My family consists of my husband, Matt, and our three children. My daughter, SMCS class of 2019, is at Carroll University in the exercise science program with an emphasis in physical therapy. I also have two sons in St. Mary Catholic High School, class of 2025 and 2023. We enjoy scouting as a family, camping and watching movies together. We also enjoy travel, but don’t get to enjoy it as much as we would want.

I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Broad Field Science Major, and a Biology/Life Science Minor. I taught school in Quinhagak, Alaska for a year, and then substitute taught in Minnesota, and Wisconsin. I have been with St. Mary Catholic High School since 2015. It is a blessing and joy to work here at SMCHS!

Hello all!

I grew up in Manassas, Virginia and lived there for most of my life. I spent many days at the Manassas Battlefields learning about the Civil War with my dad and many other days in Washington DC taking in all the sites and museums that there are to offer. After graduating high school, I attended Northern Virginia Community College where I earned an Associate’s in Fine Arts and an Associate’s in General Studies. I transferred to Brigham Young University – Idaho in 2012 where I majored in Art Education. I graduated with my Bachelor’s in Art Education and a minor in History Education in 2014. I spent the next year subbing until I was offered a job at Rigby Middle School where I taught Science, Social Studies, Outdoor Survival, Leadership, and Creativity for one year. After that year, I moved to Colorado where I subbed again. While in Colorado, I became certified in Social Studies.

We moved to the wonderful state of Wisconsin in the summer of 2017 where I began teaching here at St. Mary Catholic High School. I met my husband while in college and we were married shortly after I graduated college from BYU-I in 2014. We have enjoyed hopping around the states, but we are happy to be living here in Wisconsin! We rescued a Mountain Cur Hound named Jake in the summer of 2017 and he has quickly become quite the energetic member of our family.

When I’m not teaching or planning lessons, I enjoy going on adventures with my husband, camping, crafting/painting, going for walks, playing board games, and reading.

My name is Dean Verstegen and I have been coaching at SMC since 2004 and teaching since 2005. I teach a variety of Social Studies courses in the areas of history, government, economics, and law. I teach sophomores through seniors and work closely with SMC’s Juniors as their Class Moderator. I’ve also organized and run a number of clubs and activities at SMC, including Mock Trial and the Chess Club. After coaching the Zephyr tennis team for 14 years, I have now joined the coaching staff for the SMC Golf Team. Both are sports I enjoy immensely and frequently enjoy in my free time.

I believe that a student’s experience should be challenging, engaging, and enjoyable. Students should learn class content, prepare for the next level in their educational or occupational lives, and–most importantly–learn how to think about the world around them.

The greatest adventure in life is one lived in complete abandon to Jesus Christ, for He is NEVER a boring Messiah!

I received my Masters Degree in Theology from Marquette University in 2008, and my B.A. in Interpersonal Communications from Trinity International University, Deerfield, IL in 1991. I have been teaching Theology at St. Mary’s Catholic High School since 2014 and have taught university students at the UW-Oshkosh Newman Center for the Diocese of Green Bay from 2009 to 2013. I am experienced in teaching the Catholic faith to all age groups, from teenagers, college and young adults, and mature adults as well since 1996. Before 1996, I was a Protestant minister from 1991 until I converted to the Catholic faith and joined the Catholic Church in 1996. I am married to my dear wife, Kris, and have two sons Benjamin, who married to Lena, and Bryan, who is married to Trudy. Ben and Lena have been blessed with four children, Elizabeth, Jacob, Francesca, and Jonathan…so yes, my wife and I are grandparents!

For fun, my wife and I LOVE to do day trips, going places we’ve never seen, and taking chairs and beverages and spontaneously picnic somewhere…anywhere!!! My hope for you and your family is to discover the great, GREAT joy in Jesus!!!!

The driving force in my teaching is that I work with Jesus, Who is THE teacher; my task is to assist Him in His topics of choice and methods!

After graduating from SMC in 2009, I attended the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. I graduated in 2014 with my degree in Physical Education and Health Education, along with certification in Adapted Physical Education. From 2014-2016, I taught high school physical education and coached tennis, basketball, and soccer at Lourdes Academy in Oshkosh. I have been employed by SMCS since 2016, teaching Physical Education and Health Education at the middle school and coaching girl’s tennis at the high school.

Sports are one of my greatest passions, so I will often be found in the stands cheering on our Zephyrs athletes. In my free time, I enjoy being active in sports, such as volleyball, soccer, and snowboarding, and spending time with my wonderful family and friends.

I am a proud graduate of St. Mary Catholic Schools. After high school, I attended Franciscan University of Steubenville where I majored in biology and theology and minored in chemistry. I found my passion for teaching through working as a lab assistant and a tutor. I then completed my teaching certification and received my Master of Science in Education from Concordia University of Wisconsin.

My journey as an educator has truly been an adventure with Christ! He first brought me to Pacelli Catholic High School where I taught biology and religion in Stevens Point for four years before He called me from central Wisconsin to Central America. I served as a missionary teacher with the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity (SOLT) in Benque Viejo del Carmen, Belize, for three wonderful years as a religion teacher. Jesus then called me home to Wisconsin and to my alma mater where I am blessed to have been the 7^th and 8^th grade religion teacher since 2021. I enjoy walking with students as they take steps on their journey as a disciple of Christ.

I graduated from St. Mary Catholic High School in 1981 and then I attended St. Norbert College where I earned a BA degree in elementary education. Afterwards I taught for nine years at St. Gabriel school. I left that position to finish my graduate work at UW Oshkosh where I earned my MSE in school counseling. After five years as a school principal and two as a religion teacher, I found my way back to the SMCS system, when I was hired as the middle school counselor and campus minister in 2002.

My husband Brent and I have two children, Claire and Bryce. They both went through St. Gabriel, Seton (St. Mary Catholic Middle School) and graduated from SMCHS in 2015 and 2018. As a family, we continue to be active members of St. Gabriel Parish.

I love my work at the middle school and look forward to endless possibilities of helping our students stay healthy, happy and to grow in faith!

I grew up in Menasha and have been a lifelong member of St. Mary Parish. I’m a product of Catholic Education and an Alumnus of St. Mary Catholic High School. I have a Bachelors of Science in Education degree from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and Masters in Education from Marian University, 2015. I have always worked in Catholic Education and have been a part of the SMCS family since 2001. My husband John and I have three beautiful children that have all been educated in the St. Mary Catholic Schools. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, knitting, camping and being sustainable.

I believe in the significant advantages that a Catholic School education can offer students and their families.

[email protected]

(920) 727-0279 ext. 500

Hello, I am an alumni of SMCS graduating in 1995. I have bachelor of science degree from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh in urban and regional studies. I worked in my families construction business until 2011 when I began work for UWO in maintenance. I started working at St Mary’s in 2016 and I am very happy to be here.

I am married to my wonderful wife Jenny and I have three children; Ben, Katherine, and Hannah. They are all enrolled in SMCS and love their school.

Pamela Barnhill has been the Director of Bands for St. Mary Catholic Middle and High School since 2015. She received her Bachelor of Music Degree from Lawrence University in 2007 and has been teaching and performing in the Fox Valley ever since.

Mrs. Barnhill loves to make the band classrooms of SMCS high energy, positive places to learn and make music together and enjoys giving her students the opportunity to experience many different ways to create music.

When not teaching, Mrs. Barnhill enjoys spending time with her husband Michael and their two dogs, Lily and Archer. She is a dedicated triathlete and even spent 12 years skating with our local roller derby league.

My name is Cole Boge and I teach 7^th and 8^th grade math at the middle school. I graduated from Loras College in 2011 with a degree in Elementary Education and an endorsement in Mathematics. I was blessed enough to play baseball while I was there. I have a love for all Boston sports teams (Patriots, Red Sox, and Celtics). My birthplace was Springfield, Massachusetts, which is the same hometown as Dr. Seuss! I enjoy playing guitar, singing, doing Crossfit, playing sports, and spending time with my wife and son.

I grew up in Upper Michigan in the small town of Powers. I attended Northern Michigan University where I earned a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education. After graduation, I moved to Wisconsin and started teaching full time at Neenah High School, where I taught math for 20 years. While teaching there, I met my husband, who was a tech ed. teacher at the time. I also finished my Master’s degree in education from Marian University while teaching at NHS.

My husband and I have two daughters in this school system, 5th grade at SMM and 8th grade, and have been a part of this community since they were in 4K. I enjoy running, crafting, reading, hunting, and spending time watching and helping out with the sports and activities that my girls are involved in.

I am really excited to be a part of this community.

Miss G. has served as the 8th grade ELA teacher at St. Mary Middle School since 2021. She is a lifelong resident of the Fox Cities who enjoys gardening and volunteering at her church. Other hobbies include watching documentaries and listening to podcasts (because she loves to learn!). She gained two Bachelors of Arts degrees at Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minnesota: one in middle and secondary English and another in general education, as well as a minor in theology. Teaching English Language Arts at a wonderful school like St. Mary Middle School is her dream come true!

Hi all! I’m Meghan McCarville and I have been teaching 7th grade Language Arts at St. Mary Catholic Middle School (formally Seton) since 2014.

I got my bachelor’s degree in English from UW-Oshkosh and went back to get my teaching certification through Marian University.

In my free time, I love to be with family and friends. In the summer, I like to be outside. I enjoy camping, fishing, golfing, running, and gardening. In the winter, you can usually find me inside reading a good book by the fire. I’m also a dog lover! My family has two Labrador Retrievers.

I graduated from University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh with a bachelors degree in Secondary Education, majoring in Broadfield Social Science and minoring in Economics.

I have been teaching at SMCMS since 2013.

When I am not working on school, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I love gardening, reading, and traveling.

My name is Trisha Schneider. I am the system librarian for SMCS. I graduated from UW-Oshkosh in 2000 with a dual degree in regular education and special education certification for PK-3 and a minor in math. I continued my education with a Masters of Library and Information Science, graduating in 2008 from UW-Milwaukee. I started teaching in the SMCS system in 2000 at the kindergarten level for St. Margaret Mary. I also taught 4K and Preschool at the St. Margaret Mary campus before I took over the system position in the library.

My family consists of my husband, Matt, and our three children. My daughter, SMCS class of 2019, is at Carroll University in the exercise science program with an emphasis in physical therapy. I also have two sons in St. Mary Catholic High School, class of 2025 and 2023. We enjoy scouting as a family, camping and watching movies together. We also enjoy travel, but don’t get to enjoy it as much as we would want.

I graduated from UW-Oshkosh with a Bachelor of Business Administration with a degree in Marketing. I earned my teaching license through Marian College and I have completed Technology course work through Fox Valley Technical College. I have been with TCCES/SMCS since 2005 teaching grades k-12. I am an active member of St. Gabriel Parish and I truly believe that Christ is the reason for our schools.

[email protected]

(920) 727-0279 ext. 500

Hello, I am an alumni of SMCS graduating in 1995. I have bachelor of science degree from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh in urban and regional studies. I worked in my families construction business until 2011 when I began work for UWO in maintenance. I started working at St Mary’s in 2016 and I am very happy to be here.

I am married to my wonderful wife Jenny and I have three children; Ben, Katherine, and Hannah. They are all enrolled in SMCS and love their school.

I grew up in Mexico and moved to Wisconsin when I was 11 years old. I graduated from Menasha High School and did my Early Childhood Education at FVTC and UW-Oshkosh.

I’m married to my husband Salvador and we have three boys Max, Alex and Aldo.

I love to watch my boys play soccer and also enjoy baking and cooking. I am passionate about my job. I am very happy to be part of the SMCS family.

[email protected]

(920) 722-7796 ext. 668

[email protected]

920-722-7796 ext. 123

Eric Conner has been the Fine Arts Director for St. Mary Catholic Schools since 2021. He received a degree in Music Education – Choral from UW Eau Claire and taught choir for seven years prior to joining the team at SMCS. Eric oversees all fine arts extra curriculars at SMCS and facilitates the events inside the Jane Bergstrom Fine Arts and Education Center. For more information on fine arts and opportunities at SMCS, please visit smcsfinearts.org.

I graduated from UW-Stevens Point with a degree in Elementary Education and Learning Technologies.  I started my teaching career in 2006 when I was the Technology Liaison for a remote village in Alaska.  I then moved back to Wisconsin and was the technology teacher for St. Mary Springs Academy in Fond du Lac.  I then joined the St. Mary Catholic Schools as the 4K/4^th grade teacher at St. Mary’s Elementary School.  After taking some time off to raise my family and work part-time for an Innovation company, I am excited to return to St. Mary Catholic Schools as the Instructional Technology Coach.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our three kids.  Our kids are active in sports, music, Scouts, and everything in-between. I enjoy reading, biking, and crafting and visiting family and friends.

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(920) 722-7796 ext. 807

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(920) 722-7796 ext. 800

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(920) 725-4161 ext. 234

Business Manager for St. Gabriel Parish and Food Service Administrative Asst. for SMCS since 2003.

Graduated from St. Mary’s College, Notre Dame IN in 1982 with BA in Finance.

[email protected]

(920) 722-7796 ext. 810

• Invoices & Check Requests
• Deposits
• Booster/Fundraiser Support
• Cash Bags

[email protected]

(920) 722-7796 ext. 803

My name is Chelsey Kind, Human Resources Director, and I started with SMCS in 2019. Prior to joining SMCS, I worked in the airline and health care industries.

I grew up in Kaukauna and attended UW Fox Valley and UW Green Bay for Business Administration/Management. My husband and I have two children (expecting our third) and a dog. Things I enjoy doing outside of work are spending time with family and friends, camping, being outside as much as possible, baking and crafting.

[email protected]

(920) 722-7796 ext. 206

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920-722-7796 ext. 813

[email protected]

920-722-7796 ext. 814

I received my undergraduate degree in communicative disorders in 1996 with an emphasis in speech and language pathology. I started my career as a speech pathologist in the Kenosha School District. I then began teaching in 2000 as a special education and regular education teacher in the Menasha School District. I received a master’s degree in special education in 2001, followed by a degree in administration with a principal license along with a director of curriculum and instruction license in 2015. I transitioned from a classroom teacher to elementary school principal in 2016, with two years at Most Precious Blood Catholic School and four years at St. Mary Elementary School. I am completing my master’s degree in counseling in 2023 as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor.

I am excited to be the Director of Student Services which allows me to follow my passion of supporting students and staff to accomplish their goals. Besides my continuous love of learning, I tremendously enjoy most of all spending time with my husband and our three daughters. We love to spend time camping and playing with our dog fur babies.

It is truly an honor and privilege to be a part of SMCS.

Justina Plemon has been in education since 2013. She earned her bachelors from UW-River Falls in Broad Area English Education. Since then, she has earned certifications and completed trainings to focus more on educational technology. In her free time, she enjoys exploring with her family.

[email protected]

(920) 722-7796

[email protected]

(920) 722-7796 ext. 851

Happy to be a Zephyr! I work in the Business Office and have been with St. Mary Catholic Schools since 2004. I help families with tuition, assistance and Scrip.

My husband and I have 2 beautiful girls who attend SMCS and we belong to St. Gabriel Parish. We enjoy filling our family time with hiking, camping, cooking and mini golfing.

God’s blessings!

[email protected]

(920) 722-7796 ext. 812

Hi! I’m Susan Zabel. I attended grade school (K – 8) in Weyauwega- Fremont. My family then moved to Appleton and I attended high school at Appleton East. After high school, I attended the University of Wisconsin – Fox Valley obtaining my Associate Degree in Business. After obtaining my Associate Degree, I worked for Community First Credit Union in the Accounting department for 2 years. During my time at Community First, the credit union was struck by lightening and the main computer was totally disabled as well as all 3 locations (Richmond St., Appleton, Oneida St., Appleton and Forest Ave., Neenah). It took 3 days to get all locations and systems operational. Shortly after this event, I decided to go back to school. I attended Fox Valley Technical College obtaining my vocational diploma in Computer Operations. After graduating from Fox Valley Tech, I worked full time for the United Way of Neenah-Menasha as their Accountant and Network Administrator.

When I started with the United Way, their accounting was still done on columnar pads, ledger cards and with a typewriter, although the typewriter was electric. Yeah, they were totally manual. No spreadsheets or anything computerized. Well, I’m not working harder, so my first order of business was installing their first PC network so we could work smarter. I was able to upgrade that initial installation, doubling the number of network users, before accepting a second shift (4:30 PM to Midnight) job opportunity with Integrity Mutual Insurance Company in Appleton. While working full time at Integrity in their computer center, I attended the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh part-time and obtained my Bachelor of Business Administration degree. My emphasis was Accounting and I graduated with cum laude honors.

After finally completing my Bachelor’s degree in 15 years, I briefly worked for TEAM Wisconsin in Kaukauna (currently Casper Truck Equipment) before moving on to work for the City of Neenah. I worked as the Account Clerk and then the Accounting Supervisor of the Water Utility. After my position was downsized from the City of Neenah, I worked for Sturm Foods in Manawa as a Cost Accountant and Analyst. After Sturm Foods was purchased by Treehouse Foods, my position was again downsized and I was lucky enough to return to my roots here in Neenah by accepting the role of Accountant and Payroll Administrator with St Mary Catholic Schools.

Now I have to confess, I could have skipped the City of Neenah and Sturm Foods detours by accepting a part time role with the former Twin Cities Catholic Education System (TCCES), but what fun would that have been? I got here anyway! Nineteen years later, God said “this is where I need you to be.” So, here I am! He lead me here twice and the second time I had no excuse. So, I shall serve Him and SMCS for as long as He allows me to and I am able. Go Zephyrs!

I began my role as principal of St. Gabriel, St. Margaret Mary, and St. Mary Elementary Schools in July of 2022. Prior to that, I was a Spanish teacher for 21 years. I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, my master’s degree in Spanish Language and Literature from the University of Salamanca, Spain, and my Educational Administration degree from the University of Wisconsin-Superior. My husband and I live in Neenah. We have two sons and we are members of St. Bernard Parish in Appleton. In my free time, I enjoy bicycling, reading, and praying. As principal, I am committed to furthering SMCS’s mission of providing a place where students discover and develop their God-given talents and experience success through learning, faith, and service. I believe that we are all continually on this very same journey throughout our entire lives and it is through this process that we grow closer to becoming who God truly created us to be.

I teach 3rd grade at St. Mary Catholic Schools, St. Gabriel Campus. I graduated from UW-Stevens Point with a major in political science and a minor in French. I spent several years after college in the manufacturing and insurance industries. I earned my teaching certification in special education with an emphasis in emotionally disturbed children from UW-Oshkosh. I obtained my elementary education certification from Marion College in Fond du Lac. I spent several years substitute teaching as well as working with children with emotional disturbances at the middle school level before joining St. Mary Catholic Schools.

I enjoy playing baseball, hunting and fishing with my family. My wife and I have two wonderful sons.

I received my Physical Education Degree from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and have been teaching physical education at St. Mary Catholic Schools – Elementary Campuses since 1987. I have also assisted with reading, math, and computer instruction when needed and served as the elementary athletics coordinator for many years.

I am originally from Manawa, WI and a member of St. Patrick’s Parish-Lebanon. When I am not at school, I enjoy spending time with family, golfing, walking, reading, and following the Green Bay Packers and the Wisconsin Badger Basketball team.

It is a privileged to be part of SMCS staff and faith community. I have enjoyed many years of teaching and working with your children. Being able to share my faith and love of God with the students makes it that much more rewarding.

Hi, my name is Tina Olsen. I have been teaching at St. Gabriel Elementary since 2009. I am currently the second grade teacher, but also taught kindergarten. Before having my own kids, I taught 4 years in the Neenah Public Schools as a kindergarten teacher. I graduated from UW-Oshkosh with a double major in both Elementary Education and Special Education, EC-EEN. I also went on to receive my Masters at UW-Oshkosh in Curriculum and Instruction.

My husband, Chad, and I got married at St. Gabriel Parish in 1997. We have three wonderful children. I have twin daughters, Kaitlyn and Marissa (2001) and Conner (2004). My children went to St. Gabriel Elementary and St. Mary Middle School. In my free time I love to read. I also enjoy baking and cooking new recipes for my family. My husband and I love to kayak and hike at state parks.

I have wanted to be a teacher since I was in middle school. I love working with students and sharing my joy of learning with them. It is a very rewarding job and I love being part of such a great school.

Hello, my name is Jenny Rodman and I am the Physical Education teacher at all three elementary schools in the St. Mary’s school system.  I am very excited to be starting my journey as an educator here.

Previous to coming to SMCS, I spent two years in a private school and 10 years as a virtual educator.  I have learned so much through my time teaching and I am excited to bring everything I have learned to SMCS this year!

I am married and live in Menasha with my husband Mike, our son Michael (age 11) and our daughter Jordyn (7).  We also have two crazy German Shorthair Pointers named Beau (age 5) and Bella (age 1).  We stay very active as my children both participate in sports, and I am usually coaching their teams.  I also enjoy playing volleyball and slow pitch softball in my spare time.

I am looking forward to connecting with each and every one of you this school year!

Hello, my name is Victoria Katherine Rojas. I grew up in Hortonville, Wisconsin and graduated from UW- Oshkosh with a double major in both Elementary Education and Special Education. I have been teaching since 2002. I’ve taught nearly every grade from K-8th, with the majority of my career working with special needs students. Two years ago I was hired as a  first grade teacher at SMM, and last year I taught science to fifth and sixth graders at a public school. I love having the ability  to talk about Jesus, my Catholic faith, and to be able to pray with my students every day. The SMCS community is very special  to me and I am happy to be a part of it again!  I am single and have two grown children, Brittany (31) and Shanna (25). I am also a nana to two beautiful boys, Grayson (9) and Zion (2). In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my girls and grandsons. I feel blessed to have my family close to me, my mother still lives in the house I grew up in. My hobbies are hiking, biking, hunting and traveling. 

I love sharing my passion of early childhood education with SMCS. I have a BS in Education Early childhood special education and then added early childhood regular education (Birth to age 8) to my license in 2010. I believe in lifelong learning and I keep up to date with many staff developments. I have a special interest in incorporating ideas often used in occupational therapy and conscious discipline. I like to go boating with my family and can be found cheering my kids on from the soccer and volleyball bleachers.

My name is Trisha Schneider. I am the system librarian for SMCS. I graduated from UW-Oshkosh in 2000 with a dual degree in regular education and special education certification for PK-3 and a minor in math. I continued my education with a Masters of Library and Information Science, graduating in 2008 from UW-Milwaukee. I started teaching in the SMCS system in 2000 at the kindergarten level for St. Margaret Mary. I also taught 4K and Preschool at the St. Margaret Mary campus before I took over the system position in the library.

My family consists of my husband, Matt, and our three children. My daughter, SMCS class of 2019, is at Carroll University in the exercise science program with an emphasis in physical therapy. I also have two sons in St. Mary Catholic High School, class of 2025 and 2023. We enjoy scouting as a family, camping and watching movies together. We also enjoy travel, but don’t get to enjoy it as much as we would want.

After spending time as an exchange student to Montevideo, Uruguay while I was in high school, I graduated with a degree in Spanish and Journalism from UW-Madison. I have continued to travel, usually with some or all of my 9 children. Six of my kids still live at home so between kids, their friends, and cats and dogs, we have a busy household. All my kids attended St. Mary Grade School, Seton, and a few attended St. Mary Catholic High School.

I have been at St. Gabriel for 5 years and really enjoy seeing students grow and change. The staff is a wonderful, positive, caring group. I am looking forward to more adventures and travel in the next few years (especially more trips to Washington DC to visit my granddaughter!).

I completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Chicago, a Master of Education degree in Instructional Leadership from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and an extended licensure program in Cross-Categorical Special Education from Cardinal Stritch University. I hold licenses in regular and cross-categorical elementary education, as well as early childhood regular education.

I began my teaching career in 1993, and I have always taught at Catholic schools. In 2010, after ten years at home with my own children, I joined the staff at St. Gabriel. I taught Preschool for seven years, and moved to Kindergarten in 2018.

My husband and I have three children, and we have lived in Neenah since 2005. Our children attended Preschool and 4K at St. Gabriel. I have always felt a strong sense of community in our St. Mary Catholic Schools–among the staff, parents, and students–and I believe it is what makes our schools a great place to be.

Hello! I began my employment at St. Gabriel as an Early Childhood Aide. Currently, I enjoy the role of the Extended Care Provider. I hold a Secondary English degree, but after raising my three children, I’ve found that the early years of childhood have captured my heart and my creativity thus leading me to a career in working with that age group. Along with working with children, I enjoy traveling with my husband and family, Broadway musicals, and photography.

Hi, I am Lucy Wang. I graduated from Tianjin University of Commerce in 1988. I have enjoyed continuing my education by taking classes in technology and attending world language conferences, and workshops to improve my teaching techniques and strategies as a language teacher.

In my free time, I like to Dance, biking and spend time with my family. One of my favorite things to do is practice piano and violin with my children! It is blessed to see all the happy faces rounded and kind-hearted students come into my classroom everyday. I am full of patience to teach them to become a fluent mandarin speaker, and helping them reach their goals. I am so happy to work with them.

Please feel free to contact me at any time if you have any questions or concerns!

I have been a teacher at St. Gabriel since 2019 and feel blessed to be part of SMCS community. I’m originally from Mt. Pleasant MI. I went to Mt. Pleasant high school and graduated from Central MI. University, with a BA of science in elementary education.  I’ve also earned several credits towards a MA in reading from Viterbo University, La Crosse, WI.

I have lived in Appleton for 16 years it’s a wonderful town, Go Packers! I have one  son who is all grown up and one adorable grandson who brings me great joy!  Teaching has always been my passion; I’ve taught summer school in the AASD for 7 years. I’ve been a full-time teacher for grades 3^rd and 4^th.  I’ve also been a substitute teacher for K-12.

In my spare time, I enjoy biking, hiking, dancing, reading, and spending time with my family and friends. Summer is my favorite season because I enjoy long walks on the beach, hiking, and biking when the weather is warm.

Hi, I am Mrs. Bekkers. I currently teach Preschool. I love introducing children to their first school experience.

I went to school for Psychology, American Sign Language, and Early Childhood Education. I find all of these come in handy in the classroom! I enjoy reading and spending time with my family.

I have been married since 2001 and have 3 boys. We are active participants in our parish and believe strongly in Faith based education. I feel very blessed to be a part of the SMCS community!

My name is Lyndsey Bergstrom. Teaching is my passion! I have a Bachelors of Science degree in Education from Marian University. I have taught middle school grades 6, 7, and 8 at Seton Catholic Middle School. I taught 3rd grade at Hatfield Elementary and 4th grade at Hughes Elementary, both located in Justin, Texas. I also have taught 5th grade at Saint Mary Elementary school. I am very excited to be at Saint Margaret Mary Elementary school this year teaching 3rd grade.

I enjoy decorating, creating projects, shopping, traveling, organizing, gardening, walking, being active, and spending time with my family and friends. I am married to a wonderful man that went through the SMCS school system. I am blessed with a loving family.

I graduated from the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus with a major in Administrative Assistant Studies with a minor in Business Administration.

I like to go for walks and spend time with my family. Also, I love to go out to eat, bake and watch television shows with my daughter.

I am currently a Pre-K Classroom Aide at St. Margaret Mary Elementary School. I enjoy working with the kiddos very much.

I began my role as principal of St. Gabriel, St. Margaret Mary, and St. Mary Elementary Schools in July of 2022. Prior to that, I was a Spanish teacher for 21 years. I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, my master’s degree in Spanish Language and Literature from the University of Salamanca, Spain, and my Educational Administration degree from the University of Wisconsin-Superior. My husband and I live in Neenah. We have two sons and we are members of St. Bernard Parish in Appleton. In my free time, I enjoy bicycling, reading, and praying. As principal, I am committed to furthering SMCS’s mission of providing a place where students discover and develop their God-given talents and experience success through learning, faith, and service. I believe that we are all continually on this very same journey throughout our entire lives and it is through this process that we grow closer to becoming who God truly created us to be.

My name is Donna Liddy and I’m a preschool aide at St. Margaret Mary elementary school. I have worked with kids of all ages for 7 plus years, the past 3 years at SMM. It is a highlight of my day to see them smile! In my free time I love to spend time with my husband, our two daughters, and our dog Elvis. I also enjoy crocheting and taking our dog for long walks as a family.

I received my Physical Education Degree from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and have been teaching physical education at St. Mary Catholic Schools – Elementary Campuses since 1987. I have also assisted with reading, math, and computer instruction when needed and served as the elementary athletics coordinator for many years.

I am originally from Manawa, WI and a member of St. Patrick’s Parish-Lebanon. When I am not at school, I enjoy spending time with family, golfing, walking, reading, and following the Green Bay Packers and the Wisconsin Badger Basketball team.

It is a privileged to be part of SMCS staff and faith community. I have enjoyed many years of teaching and working with your children. Being able to share my faith and love of God with the students makes it that much more rewarding.

I graduated from Marian University. I recently worked at St. Mary Elementary in 3rd grade. Before that I worked at St John Sacred Heart Catholic School teaching a variety of grade levels as well as Art from grades 3 through 8. I am now the Virtual Learning Coordinator for grades K through 5.

I enjoy helping student grow in both knowledge and faith. I look forward to the opportunity to continue to do that through our virtual setting.

With God’s assistance we can do great things together.

Hello my name is Brittany Peterson. Upon graduation from University of Wisconsin Stevens Point with my bachelor’s degree, I worked as a long-term substitute teacher for one complete school year as a special education teacher for grades 5-8.  After long-term subbing, I worked one year as a special education teacher for grades K-3 and 9-age 21 in Kimberly Area School District.  I then was hired by the School District of Omro as a special education teacher for K-1 for 2.5 years.  I left the School District of Omro to join the St. Margaret Mary team as a learning specialist in January of 2022.  Additionally in October of 2021, I graduated from Grand Canyon University with my Master’s in Autism Spectrum Disorders.

In my free time, I enjoy to craft, hike, bike, and spend quality time with my family.  In June of 2021, my husband and I were blessed with our first child, Lilah.   I have a strong passion for helping students close the gap of achievement between their abilities and their peers’ abilities.  I look forward to continuing my journey at St. Margaret Mary!

In 2017, I retired from a career I loved: teaching children in general and special education. I also enjoyed teaching summer school enrichment classes (STEM and stage plays) for several years. I have many fond memories of attending and graduating from St. Margaret Mary Elementary School years ago. I am looking forward to getting to know the children at SMM as an After School Care Provider this year.

My interests include traveling, reading, riding my electric bike, and taking aqua Zumba classes. I enjoy spending time with friends and family which includes nine wonderful nieces and one nephew. I am also a great aunt to five girls and one boy-all under four years old!

I am super excited to be working at SMM! I have 4 kids, 3 of which are in the SMCS school system.

I’ve lived in Neenah my whole life, and my husband and I have been married for 15 years. We belong to St. Gabriel Parish, and some of my favorite things to do are read, spend time with my family, and have a fire and make S’mores at our house.

My name is Cheryl Rivas. I teach 4K. I really enjoy working with the little ones. They are so eager to learn. I love working at St. Margaret Mary’s because the staff and the parents are amazing. They are all so positive and supportive. I attended UWO and graduated with at Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education.

I have worked with children between the ages of birth-seven for 32 years. I have long termed subbed, worked in child care centers, did my own in-home child care, was an educational director at a children’s museum, taught preschool (three-year-olds) for three years, and was a dairy ambassador.

I lived in Sheboygan for 22 years, lived in Jackson, TN, for two years, and moved to Neenah in 2020. I have two daughters. One is 25 and the other is 28. The 25-year-old is a Pastry Supervisor at the Osthoff in Elkhart Lake. She lives in Plymouth. The 28-year-old is in her last year of earning her PhD in psychology. She moved to Appleton this summer to complete her internship.

In my spare time, I like to walk, ride my bike, do crafts, and read. I love going to baseball games. I go to Timber Rattler games and Brewer games. I love spending time outdoors in the summer. I love to travel to many places in the U.S. There are always so many exciting things to see.

Hello, my name is Jenny Rodman and I am the Physical Education teacher at all three elementary schools in the St. Mary’s school system.  I am very excited to be starting my journey as an educator here.

Previous to coming to SMCS, I spent two years in a private school and 10 years as a virtual educator.  I have learned so much through my time teaching and I am excited to bring everything I have learned to SMCS this year!

I am married and live in Menasha with my husband Mike, our son Michael (age 11) and our daughter Jordyn (7).  We also have two crazy German Shorthair Pointers named Beau (age 5) and Bella (age 1).  We stay very active as my children both participate in sports, and I am usually coaching their teams.  I also enjoy playing volleyball and slow pitch softball in my spare time.

I am looking forward to connecting with each and every one of you this school year!

After high school I went to Carroll College in Waukesha, Wisconsin. I enjoyed science and decided to major in Biology and Psychology. After receiving my Bachelor’s degree, I worked for the Agriculutural Department for the federal government in the state of Wisconsin. After marrying my husband Kurt, we returned to the Waukesha area where I worked for Carroll College.

During our 15 years in Waukesha we were blessed with a son, Andrew. Our next move brought us back to the Fox Valley Area. Our son was in elementary school when I went back to school at UW-Oshkosh for Early Childhood/Elementary Certification. I taught in the Catholic Schools in Oshkosh before I came to Saint Margaret Mary in 2011 to teach 4K.

My name is Trisha Schneider. I am the system librarian for SMCS. I graduated from UW-Oshkosh in 2000 with a dual degree in regular education and special education certification for PK-3 and a minor in math. I continued my education with a Masters of Library and Information Science, graduating in 2008 from UW-Milwaukee. I started teaching in the SMCS system in 2000 at the kindergarten level for St. Margaret Mary. I also taught 4K and Preschool at the St. Margaret Mary campus before I took over the system position in the library.

My family consists of my husband, Matt, and our three children. My daughter, SMCS class of 2019, is at Carroll University in the exercise science program with an emphasis in physical therapy. I also have two sons in St. Mary Catholic High School, class of 2025 and 2023. We enjoy scouting as a family, camping and watching movies together. We also enjoy travel, but don’t get to enjoy it as much as we would want.

I am currently a 4th grade teacher at St. Margaret Mary Elementary School. Our family also co-owns and operates Simple Simon Bakery in Appleton, where you can find me in summers and on some evenings during the school year decorating cakes! I have three beautiful children and enjoy spending time watching them in their extra-curricular activities as well as camping, enjoying and exploring the beautiful world the Lord has created!

I grew up in Brillion, Wisconsin and graduated from UW-Stevens Point. I have taught at St. Margaret Mary since 1991, and have mostly taught second grade. I am married and have two children who are currently attending school at St. Mary Catholic Schools.

I never thought that I would be a teacher at the same school for such a long time! I feel it is because the students and their families have made my job such an enjoyable experience over so many years! The parishes and the families are very supportive of the teachers in this school system. I feel blessed to be able to talk about Jesus, my Catholic faith, and to be able to pray with my students every day. The community of students, parents and staff at the St. Mary Catholic Schools is a very special one and I am proud to be a part of it!

In my free time I enjoy watching my children play sports, cooking, reading, crafting and taking walks.

My name is Melanie Burton. I have been an employee of SMCS since 2017. I am a graduate from the SMCS system; I graduated from St. Mary Catholic High School in 2011. After high school, I went to Carroll University for college. My degree is in Early Childhood Education.

In my free time I enjoy running, hiking, camping, reading, and playing with my puppy. Her name is Kona and she is a labradoodle!

Hello! My name is Miss Loderbauer. I have been teaching 5th grade at St Mary Elementary since 2019. In May that year, I graduated from UW-Green Bay with majors in Elementary Education and Spanish. I am from Appleton, Wisconsin and attended Catholic schools until college. I attended St. Mary Central High School (now St. Mary Catholic) so I am very familiar with the school system and am so fortunate to be a part of this school community! Catholic education is very important and it has had an amazing impact on my life. I have a very close-knit family, consisting of my parents, an older brother and sister, and their spouses. We enjoy spending time together, especially playing board games! During my free time, I love to travel, do photography, watch movies, read, and spend time with my friends and family.

I began my role as principal of St. Gabriel, St. Margaret Mary, and St. Mary Elementary Schools in July of 2022. Prior to that, I was a Spanish teacher for 21 years. I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, my master’s degree in Spanish Language and Literature from the University of Salamanca, Spain, and my Educational Administration degree from the University of Wisconsin-Superior. My husband and I live in Neenah. We have two sons and we are members of St. Bernard Parish in Appleton. In my free time, I enjoy bicycling, reading, and praying. As principal, I am committed to furthering SMCS’s mission of providing a place where students discover and develop their God-given talents and experience success through learning, faith, and service. I believe that we are all continually on this very same journey throughout our entire lives and it is through this process that we grow closer to becoming who God truly created us to be.

I have a passion for teaching and making learning fun! I have spent 15 years as a classroom teacher in grades K-4th, all at catholic schools. I graduated from St. Norbert with an Elementary Education Degree (preK-6) and a minor in Adaptive Education, then obtained my Masters in Education for Curriculum and Technology.

When I first graduated college in 2001, I taught Kindergarten for two years at St. Mary Elementary, and then moved out of the area. In 2018, my life brought me full circle as I returned as a teacher and as a parent to SMCS, and I couldn’t be happier. My two children love SMCS! My role as a Reading Support Teacher is a perfect mix of working with students and collaborating with teachers. My goal is to build confidence and a love for reading and writing in each of my students.

As a family, we enjoy boating, fishing, camping and biking.

I received my Physical Education Degree from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and have been teaching physical education at St. Mary Catholic Schools – Elementary Campuses since 1987. I have also assisted with reading, math, and computer instruction when needed and served as the elementary athletics coordinator for many years.

I am originally from Manawa, WI and a member of St. Patrick’s Parish-Lebanon. When I am not at school, I enjoy spending time with family, golfing, walking, reading, and following the Green Bay Packers and the Wisconsin Badger Basketball team.

It is a privileged to be part of SMCS staff and faith community. I have enjoyed many years of teaching and working with your children. Being able to share my faith and love of God with the students makes it that much more rewarding.

Hello, my name is Jenny Rodman and I am the Physical Education teacher at all three elementary schools in the St. Mary’s school system.  I am very excited to be starting my journey as an educator here.

Previous to coming to SMCS, I spent two years in a private school and 10 years as a virtual educator.  I have learned so much through my time teaching and I am excited to bring everything I have learned to SMCS this year!

I am married and live in Menasha with my husband Mike, our son Michael (age 11) and our daughter Jordyn (7).  We also have two crazy German Shorthair Pointers named Beau (age 5) and Bella (age 1).  We stay very active as my children both participate in sports, and I am usually coaching their teams.  I also enjoy playing volleyball and slow pitch softball in my spare time.

I am looking forward to connecting with each and every one of you this school year!

My name is Trisha Schneider. I am the system librarian for SMCS. I graduated from UW-Oshkosh in 2000 with a dual degree in regular education and special education certification for PK-3 and a minor in math. I continued my education with a Masters of Library and Information Science, graduating in 2008 from UW-Milwaukee. I started teaching in the SMCS system in 2000 at the kindergarten level for St. Margaret Mary. I also taught 4K and Preschool at the St. Margaret Mary campus before I took over the system position in the library.

My family consists of my husband, Matt, and our three children. My daughter, SMCS class of 2019, is at Carroll University in the exercise science program with an emphasis in physical therapy. I also have two sons in St. Mary Catholic High School, class of 2025 and 2023. We enjoy scouting as a family, camping and watching movies together. We also enjoy travel, but don’t get to enjoy it as much as we would want.

I was born and raised in Cumberland, Wisconsin, but have lived in Berlin for the last 25 years. My husband, Doug, and I have been married for 23 years and have been blessed with three wonderful children. Abby is in her third year at Bellin College for nursing. Bryce is starting his second year at UW-Stout for construction management and Lauren will be a sophomore at Berlin High School.

I received my undergraduate degree in Human Services from UWO in 1999 and worked for Family Training Program for eight years. I then stayed home with my kids, doing several part time jobs throughout the years.  I then decided to go back to school and graduated with a Master’s in School Counseling in May 2023.