Staff
Our staff members have years of experience in their fields of expertise.
Mauricio Ballestas
Spanish
Bachelor of Arts, Teaching of Language and Literature, Pedagogic Experimental Liberator University, Barquisimeto, Venezuela. Master’s Degree, Higher Education Management, Pedagogic Experimental Liberator University, Barquisimeto, Venezuela
Genevievre Broche
Grade 1 Teacher
Bachelor of Arts in Architecture & Sociology, Connecticut College; Master's of Arts in Teaching, Elementary Education, Manhattanville College. JPII's educational philosophy emphasizes the importance of teaching the "whole child." Academic growth must walk hand in hand with each scholar's spiritual and emotional well being. I, too, believe that a well balanced curriculum tends to turn out well balanced scholars... And I love sharing stories with my students.
Susan Costello
Kindergarten Teacher
Elementary Education/PrePrimary, College of St. Catherine; Chemical Engineering, University of Notre Dame. I have the best job in the world! I get to meet wonderful supportive families from all over the world and introduce their wonderful children to the amazing world of Catholic Education!
Gabe Heffernan
Teach for Christ Educator
Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts, Benedictine College. I enjoy seeing the learning process of scholars, watching them understand something. The rewards in this profession are great, and when done in the context of faith, it makes it that much greater.
Rainey Lecher
Grade 5
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Drake University. Endorsement areas in reading (K-8) and English as a Second Language (K-12). I love seeing the "light bulb" moments when something clicks for scholars and love all the stories and personalities the kids bring to the classroom!
Jason Lee
Teach for Christ Educator
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, University of St. Thomas. I enjoy engaging in the education of scholars and bringing Jesus Christ into the classroom.
Christine Linsmeier
Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Bachelor of Arts in Elementary/Middle School Education and Spanish Education, Mount Mary University, Milwaukee, Wis. I appreciate the smiles of the scholars when they finally understand what they thought they never would.
Brigid McClelland
Dean of Students/English Language Learner Coach
Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and Political Science, Knox College; Master's of Ed Instructional Leadership and English as a Second Language, University of Illinois at Chicago. The students, families, and staff at St. John Paul II are proof of Christ living among us. Their joy keeps me energized, and their passion for education inspires me on a daily basis.
Betsy Peloquin
Grade 4
Bachelor of Arts in Literature, Ave Maria University. I love spending time with the scholars every day and finding new ways to engage them in learning. I loved school as a kid, and I hope that I am able to share that with my students now. I also appreciate all of the support I get from the wonderful staff at St. John Paul II. We are truly a learning community, and I love it!
Mattie Potthoff
Grade 2 Teacher
Bachelor's Degree: Elementary Education, Minor: Communication Studies. I am very grateful to be a part of the JPII community. It has been a blessing getting to know each scholar and staff member. I look forward to sharing more big and small moments this school year with everyone.
Shannon Ward
Grade 3 Teacher
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration: Marketing Degree (BSBA) - Creighton University , K-6th Teaching License - St. Mary's University, In Progress: Master of Arts in Instruction Program (MAI) - St. Mary's University. I appreciate seeing the smiles on the faces of my scholars every day.
Jessi Weakley
Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, Minor in Theology from College of St. Catherine. I appreciate making connections with students and their families.
Nicolette Williams
City Connects Coordinator
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology - Marquette University, Masters of Arts in Adlerian Studies and School Counseling - Adler Graduate School. I enjoy helping students and families meet their needs and be successful.