Directory

Administration

Bob Cooke

Head of School

M.Ed. Claremont Graduate University

B.A. Carleton College

rcooke@communityschool.com

BIO

Bob Cooke

Head of School

M.Ed. Claremont Graduate University

B.A. Carleton College

rcooke@communityschool.com

Bob has spent almost 35 years in education in both administration and as an educator, with over 26 of those years in independent schools. Most recently, Bob was the Upper School Director at Brentwood School (K-12) in Los Angeles, CA, where he served from 2008-2015. Prior to? Brentwood, Bob served as Middle School Director (5-8) at Mounds Park Academy (PK-12) in St. Paul, MN, where he spent 16 years both in administrative and teaching roles. He earned a Masters of Arts in Education from Claremont Graduate University and a Bachelor of Arts in History from Carleton College.

Kathy Fitzgerald

Asst Head of School/Lower Division Director

B.A. Stephens College

kfitzgerald@communityschool.com

BIO

Kathy Fitzgerald

Asst Head of School/Lower Division Director

B.A. Stephens College

kfitzgerald@communityschool.com

Kathy has almost 40 years of involvement in early childhood education. Prior to starting at Community in 2006, she was the Coordinator of Preschool for the Ladue School District, a position she held for fifteen years. She has worked as a teacher and administrator in various other preschool settings in the St. Louis area and Richmond, Virginia. Kathy received her B.A. degree in Early Childhood Education from Stephens College and has done graduate work at Webster University. She has also studied early childhood education in England and Italy. Kathy has served as a member of the Advisory Committee for the Early Childhood Department at Fontbonne University.

Lynn Christopher

Upper Division Director

M.S. University of Kansas

B.S. Wright State University B.S. Elementary Education

lchristopher@communityschool.com

BIO

Lynn Christopher

Upper Division Director

M.S. University of Kansas

B.S. Wright State University B.S. Elementary Education

lchristopher@communityschool.com

Lynn graduated with a business degree from Wright State University in Ohio and from Mid-America University in Kansas with a degree in elementary education. She received a master's degree in educational reading from the University of Kansas. She taught Fourth Grade at Community until 2012, when she became the Upper Division Director. She has also received Community's Lowenhaupt Award.

Jonelle Harris

Diversity & Inclusivity Coordinator

JKW teacher

M.S.A. Lindenwood University

M.A.T. Webster University

B.A. St. Louis University,

jharris@communityschool.com

BIO

Jonelle Harris

Diversity & Inclusivity Coordinator

JKW teacher

M.S.A. Lindenwood University

M.A.T. Webster University

B.A. St. Louis University,

jharris@communityschool.com

Jonelle graduated from St. Louis University with a B.A. in Communication, and earned an M.S.A. in Marketing from Lindenwood University, as well as a Master's of Teaching in Early Childhood Education from Webster University. Her teaching career began in the St. Louis Public School District where she taught first grade. Outside of school, Jonelle enjoys spending time with family and friends, working out, and volunteering at her church. In addition to teaching junior kindergarten, Jonelle is also Community School's Coordinator for Diversity and Inclusivity.

Cheryl Garrison

Assistant to the Head

cgarrison@communityschool.com

Kristin Campanella

School Secretary

kcampanella@communityschool.com

Admissions

Dana Saulsberry

Director of Admissions

B.A. Harvard University

dsaulsberry@communityschool.com

BIO

Dana Saulsberry

Director of Admissions

B.A. Harvard University

dsaulsberry@communityschool.com

Dana graduated with an A.B. degree from Harvard University and has worked as an account executive in marketing/advertising in both New York and Chicago. Before joining Community, Dana worked for the St. Louis Public Schools in the School Partnership Program. She and her husband have two daughters, both Community School alumnae.

Eve Rudolph

Director of After School & Summer Programs

Admissions Associate

B. S. University of Missouri St. Louis

M.A. Ed. Administration Maryville University

erudolph@communityschool.com

Advancement

Becky Hanrahan

Director of Advancement

M.B.A. Washington University

B.A. Washington University

bhanrahan@communityschool.com

BIO

Becky Hanrahan

Director of Advancement

M.B.A. Washington University

B.A. Washington University

bhanrahan@communityschool.com

Becky is a St. Louis native, and has both a BA and an MBA from Washington University. She has over 15 years' experience in fundraising and development, including stints at nonprofits, Monsanto, and most recently, as Senior Associate Director of Development at Wash U. In her spare time, Becky enjoys running, reading and golf. She and her husband Peter have two young daughters, both students at Community.

Laura Falk

Director of Communications

M.S. Southern Oregon University

B.S. Vanderbilt University

lfalk@communityschool.com

BIO

Laura Falk

Director of Communications

M.S. Southern Oregon University

B.S. Vanderbilt University

lfalk@communityschool.com

Laura has a master's degree in secondary education from Southern Oregon University and undergraduate degrees in English and theater from Vanderbilt University. Before coming to Community in 2005, she was Director of Communications & Volunteer Coordinator for Covenant House Missouri. Her experience also includes teaching high school for four years and coordinating literacy programs for at-risk youth and ESL adults. Interests include word games, quilting, and somewhat inexplicably, running. She recently received "Stellar Speaker" recognition after presenting at the 2017 CASE/NAIS Conference. Laura and her husband have two boys, one a 2015 Community graduate and the other a future (2020) Community graduate.

Jennifer Hennessey

Advancement Associate

jhennessey@communityschool.com

Business Office

Christine Ficker

Business Manager

B.S. St. Louis University

cficker@communityschool.com

BIO

Christine Ficker

Business Manager

B.S. St. Louis University

cficker@communityschool.com

Christine graduated from St. Louis Unversity School of Business Adminstration in 1991 where she received her bachelor of science degree in accounting. She is also a certified public accountant. Prior to coming to Community School in 2001, Christine was a tax manager with BDO Seidman, LLP. Her experience also includes 13 years with Tzinberg & Dowdy, P.C. where she was a senior accountant.

Becky Harman

Accounting Associate

bharman@communityschool.com

Drew Formenti

Purchasing Agent/Employee Benefits Coordinator

dformenti@communityschool.com

Student Services

Eve Rudolph

Director of After School & Summer Programs

Admissions Associate

B. S. University of Missouri St. Louis

M.A. Ed. Administration Maryville University

erudolph@communityschool.com

Joe Korfmacher

Technology Coordinator

M.S. Fontbonne University

B.A. Lindenwood University

jkorfmacher@communityschool.com

BIO

Joe Korfmacher

Technology Coordinator

M.S. Fontbonne University

B.A. Lindenwood University

jkorfmacher@communityschool.com

Joe earned a B.A. in History with minors in Education and Social Science at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, MO. Joe then was hired as Technology Director and Computer/History teacher at St. Angela Merici in Florissant in January 2008. In 2011, Joe earned an M.S. in Computer Science from Fontbonne University. Joe is a big fan of films, especially foreign and cult cinema and he owns many movies and lots of movie memorabilia. He also enjoys classic rock music and still plays vinyl records! In the summers Joe and his wife travel a lot with antique shopping, hiking, and riding the biggest and fastest roller coasters usually on the agenda. Joe and his wife Chantel reside in South St. Louis.

Tricia Reeb

School Nurse

MSN University Of Missouri St. Louis

BSN Catholic University of America

treeb@communityschool.com

BIO

Tricia Reeb

School Nurse

MSN University Of Missouri St. Louis

BSN Catholic University of America

treeb@communityschool.com

Tricia received her master of science in nursing from the University of Missouri St. Louis, completing the family nurse practitioner program. She received her bachelor of science in nursing from the Catholic University in Washington, DC. Recemtly, Tricia was a finalist for the Excellence in Nursing Awards sponsored by St. Louis Magazine. Tricia and her husband Dan have three children who attend Community School. In her free time, she enjoys reading, home improvement projects, and spending time with her family.

Barb Jaworski

Extended Day Coordinator

bjaworski@communityschool.com

BIO

Barb Jaworski

Extended Day Coordinator

bjaworski@communityschool.com

Barb retired from Ladue School District after 33 years of working in various positions within the district - a classroom teacher for 20 years, in special services for 9 years, and a school counselor for 4 years. Prior to working in the Ladue District, Barb taught elementary school at two different parochial schools. Barb is involved in many professional organizations. In her free time, she loves writing children's stories, reading, gardening, and poetry.

Lower Division - Nursery

Lori Berry

Nursery teacher

lberry@communityschool.com

BIO

Lori Berry

Nursery teacher

lberry@communityschool.com

Before coming to Community in 2012, Lori taught at the Clayton Child Center for 26 years. She has also worked as a parent educator through the Parents as Teachers program. Lori enjoys spending time with her three children, as well as boating, traveling, and attending sporting events.

Patty Johnson

Nursery Teacher

B.S. Missouri State University Springfield

pjohnson@communityschool.com

BIO

Patty Johnson

Nursery Teacher

B.S. Missouri State University Springfield

pjohnson@communityschool.com

Patty grew up in St. Louis as part of a large close-knit family. Her eleven years of teaching experience have all been in early childhood, including at Clayton Child Center, Ladue Early Childhood Center and Holy Cross Academy.

She and her husband have four children and two dogs. She also loves to read, listen to music, travel, and spend time with family and friends. 

Kris Major

Nursery teacher

B.S. Fontbonne University

kmajor@communityschool.com

BIO

Kris Major

Nursery teacher

B.S. Fontbonne University

kmajor@communityschool.com

Kris received her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Fontbonne University. She taught eleven years at Ladue Early Childhood Center before coming to Community in 2007. She and her husband, Tom, have two children. Her free time is spent with her family exploring and seeing St. Louis through the eyes of their children.

Lower Division - Junior Kindergarten

Jonelle Harris

Diversity & Inclusivity Coordinator

JKW teacher

M.S.A. Lindenwood University

M.A.T. Webster University

B.A. St. Louis University,

jharris@communityschool.com

BIO

Jonelle Harris

Diversity & Inclusivity Coordinator

JKW teacher

M.S.A. Lindenwood University

M.A.T. Webster University

B.A. St. Louis University,

jharris@communityschool.com

Jonelle graduated from St. Louis University with a B.A. in Communication, and earned an M.S.A. in Marketing from Lindenwood University, as well as a Master's of Teaching in Early Childhood Education from Webster University. Her teaching career began in the St. Louis Public School District where she taught first grade. Outside of school, Jonelle enjoys spending time with family and friends, working out, and volunteering at her church. In addition to teaching junior kindergarten, Jonelle is also Community School's Coordinator for Diversity and Inclusivity.

Katie Norris

JKE teacher

B.S. University of Missouri St. Louis

knorris@communityschool.com

BIO

Katie Norris

JKE teacher

B.S. University of Missouri St. Louis

knorris@communityschool.com

A native St. Louisan, Katie graduated from University of Missouri St. Louis with a degree in early childhood education. She taught for two years at St. Mark's School as a kindergarten teacher and was a substitute teacher in the Rockwood School District. She has been with Community since 2008. Katie is married and has one daughter, a student at Community. Her other interests include outdoor activities, renovating their home, and going out to eat.

Lauri Torrie

JKE teacher

M.A. Webster University

B.S. University of Missouri - Columbia

ltorrie@communityschool.com

BIO

Lauri Torrie

JKE teacher

M.A. Webster University

B.S. University of Missouri - Columbia

ltorrie@communityschool.com

Lauri received a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Missouri Columbia. She also received an M.A. in Teaching and an Early Childhood teaching certificate from Webster University. Lauri taught kindergarten for ten years and prior to that worked with preschool-aged children for five years. She grew up in St. Charles and currently lives in South County with her husband and two daughters. Lauri enjoys spending time with her family and friends, painting and spending time outside.

Darla Ellsworth

JKW teacher

B.S. University of Missouri St. Louis

dellsworth@communityschool.com

BIO

Darla Ellsworth

JKW teacher

B.S. University of Missouri St. Louis

dellsworth@communityschool.com

Darla graduated from University of Missouri St. Louis with a degree in elementary education/special education and is certified in Early Childhood Special Education and Learning Disabilities. At Community since 2005, Darla previously worked for the St. Louis Special School District and St. John’s Mercy Child Development Center. At St. John’s, she administered screenings; supervised, consulted, and provided in-service training to staff of the onsite daycare/preschool program; and taught pre-school age children in a team teaching arrangement with physical therapists and speech and language pathologists. Darla likes to read. She and her husband, Rick, have three children, two beautiful granddaughters and an adorable grandson.

Lower Division - Senior Kindergarten

Kara Horton

SKE teacher

M.S. Webster University

B.S. St. Louis University

khorton@communityschool.com

BIO

Kara Horton

SKE teacher

M.S. Webster University

B.S. St. Louis University

khorton@communityschool.com

Kara graduated from Saint Louis University with a bachelor in elementary education and is certified in elementary education and early childhood. She recently earned her master’s of education in special education from Webster University. Before joining Community School, Kara taught kindergarten and first grade at Better Learning Communities Academy. Outside of school, Kara enjoys running, reading and playing with her daughter.

Ellen Watts

SKE teacher

B.A. Fontbonne University

ewatts@communityschool.com

BIO

Ellen Watts

SKE teacher

B.A. Fontbonne University

ewatts@communityschool.com

Ellen Watts, SK East, came to Community School from Clayton Child Center in 1995. She has a B.A. in early childhood education from Fontbonne College. She has taught for over 20 years and has experience with a wide age range of children. Ellen also worked as a counselor in New City’s aftercare program. She enjoys hiking, photography, and family get-togethers. She and her husband have two children.

Amanda Hazelwood

SKW teacher

B.S. Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville

ahazelwood@communityschool.com

BIO

Amanda Hazelwood

SKW teacher

B.S. Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville

ahazelwood@communityschool.com

Amanda graduated from Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and is currently in the process of earning her Master of Education in Learning, Teaching & Curriculum from University of Missouri Columbia. Amanda has worked for ten years in early childhood education as a preschool teacher in Columbia, Missouri public schools, and a kindergarten teacher at Premier Charter School in St. Louis, where she was nominated for Teacher of the Year in 2012. She has been at Community School since 2014. Amanda's daughter Mackenzie attends Community and she has a younger son, Royce. Outside of school, Amanda enjoys spending time with friends and family.

Martha Overcash

SKW teacher

B.S. Wheelock College

movercash@communityschool.com

BIO

Martha Overcash

SKW teacher

B.S. Wheelock College

movercash@communityschool.com

Martha joined Community School in 1986. She earned a bachelor of science in education from Wheelock College in Boston. She directed the Community School Play Camp for six years and worked at Burr Oak Camp as the Junior Camp art teacher for 14 years. During the summer she now teaches mini camps at Community in as well as Fundamentals. Martha enjoys knitting/crocheting, sewing, cooking, playing with her puppy Taffy and being a mom to her daughter, Libby, a Community School alum, who was recently married.

Lower Division - First Grade

Lori Branch

1N teacher

B.S. University of South Dakota

lbranch@communityschool.com

BIO

Lori Branch

1N teacher

B.S. University of South Dakota

lbranch@communityschool.com

Lori has a bachelor of science in elementary and special education from the University of South Dakota and took graduate course work in special education at the University of Florida in Gainesville. Lori came to Community in 1995 from Valparaiso, Florida, where she taught first and second grade. She received an award from the Council for Exceptional Children for outstanding performance in 1991 and was selected Teacher of the Year in 1993 by the Valparaiso Elementary School. Lori and her husband, Dalfred, have two children, Ashley and Spencer. She enjoys bowling, biking, and spending time outdoors.

Colleen Wyss

1N teacher

B.A. University of West Florida

cwyss@communityschool.com

BIO

Colleen Wyss

1N teacher

B.A. University of West Florida

cwyss@communityschool.com

Colleen graduated from the University of West Florida with a degree in Pre-Kindergarten/Primary Education. Colleen has taught for fourteen years, splitting those years evenly between kindergarten and first grade. She began her teaching career at St. Margaret of Scotland School and then moved on to Premier Charter School. Colleen grew up in St. Louis, and is happy to call downtown home. In her free time, Colleen loves to travel, sing and tap dance.

Karen Larson

1S teacher

B.A. Pacific University

klarson@communityschool.com

BIO

Karen Larson

1S teacher

B.A. Pacific University

klarson@communityschool.com

Karen is originally from Honolulu, Hawaii, but also lived for ten years in Oregon. She received her BA in education from Pacific University. Karen spent five years teaching kindergarten in Tillamook, as well as teaching a bilingual Spanish program, before coming to Community in 2010. Karen enjoys learning about new languages and cultures, cooking, gardening, hiking, walking her dogs, and spending time with her husband, Steve.

Ellen Noel

1S teacher

M.A.T. Webster University

B.S. Utah State University

enoel@communityschool.com

BIO

Ellen Noel

1S teacher

M.A.T. Webster University

B.S. Utah State University

enoel@communityschool.com

Ellen, a St. Louis native, graduated from Utah State University with a B.S. degree in elementary education. Ellen earned her Master's of Teaching English as a Second Language from Webster University. She has twelve years of teaching experience as a kindergarten and first grade teacher, math specialist and English as a Second Language specialist. Ellen enjoys taking her golden doodle, Rocky, for walks and spending time with her husband traveling, going to the symphony, and volunteering.

Lower Division - Second Grade

Jered Gruszka

2N teacher

B.S. Fontbonne University

jgruszka@communityschool.com

BIO

Jered Gruszka

2N teacher

B.S. Fontbonne University

jgruszka@communityschool.com

Jered is a native St. Louisan and the son of two teachers. He graduated magna cum laude from Fontbonne University with a degree in elementary education. Jered has previously taught language arts at Churchill School and Learning Center and joined the Community faculty in 2006. During the summer, he can be found running around at Burr-Oak Camp as the P.E teacher as well as supervising Extended Day. Jered and his wife Angela (also a teacher!) live in Chesterfield with their three children. The whole family enjoys parks, cooking, reading, and playing washers or wiffle ball in their backyard.

Jessica Hendricks

2N teacher

M.S. University of Missouri St. Louis

B.S. University of Missouri St. Louis

jhendricks@communityschool.com

BIO

Jessica Hendricks

2N teacher

M.S. University of Missouri St. Louis

B.S. University of Missouri St. Louis

jhendricks@communityschool.com

Jessica graduated from the University of Missouri-St. Louis with a bachelor of science in elementary education. She also completed her masters in elementary education from University of Missouri St. Louis. Jessica began teaching first grade here in 2004. She and her husband, Jason, have one son, a student at Community.

Stephen Lott

2S Teacher

M.S. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

B.S. Greenville University

slott@communityschool.com

BIO

Stephen Lott

2S Teacher

M.S. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

B.S. Greenville University

slott@communityschool.com

A native of Missouri, Stephen is returning to St. Louis after spending eight years teaching in Massachusetts. His career in education began in southern Illinois before teaching second grade across town at Forsyth School. All of his twenty-one years of teaching have been in second and third grade.

Outside of school, Stephen enjoys genealogy, taking care of his cat Jasper, bookbinding and gardening. He and his partner look forward to exploring how St. Louis has changed over their eight years away.

Rachelle Luster

2S teacher

B.A. Avila University

rluster@communityschool.com

BIO

Rachelle Luster

2S teacher

B.A. Avila University

rluster@communityschool.com

Rachelle graduated from Avila University in Kansas City, Missouri, with a bachelor of arts in elementary education. She is currently working on her master of arts at Webster University in education and innovation with an emphasis in global sustainability. Rachelle grew up in Lenexa, Kansas. She began her teaching career in Kansas City, Missouri, and then moved to St. Louis and taught in the University City School District. Rachelle’s hobbies include relaxing outdoors, visiting parks and museums, going to sporting events, and exploring new attractions in St. Louis. Rachelle enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and especially time with her son Caellum.

Upper Division - Third Grade

Marty Hoessle

3N teacher

M.Ed. Washington University

B.S. Southeast Missouri State University

mhoessle@communityschool.com

BIO

Marty Hoessle

3N teacher

M.Ed. Washington University

B.S. Southeast Missouri State University

mhoessle@communityschool.com

Marty came to Community in 1988. She completed her undergraduate work at Southeast Missouri State University and received a master's degree in education in counseling from Washington University, and her elementary and early childhood certification from the University of Missouri. Marty is a 2004 recipient of the "ISSL Teacher of Distinction" and the "Emerson Excellence in Teaching" awards. In 2005, her book Under Three Flags was published, which is about the early history of St. Louis. Marty’s hobbies include dancing, bicycling, hiking, yoga, traveling, and reading.

Mindy McManemy

3N teacher

M.Ed. University of Missouri St. Louis

B.S. University of Missouri Columbia

mmcmanemy@communityschool.com

BIO

Mindy McManemy

3N teacher

M.Ed. University of Missouri St. Louis

B.S. University of Missouri Columbia

mmcmanemy@communityschool.com

Mindy earned her Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from the University of Missouri - Columbia. Her teaching career started in the Hazelwood School district where she taught fourth grade for three years, two of those years as the fourth grade team leader. After her experience in Hazelwood, Mindy pursued a master's degree in education administration and graduated magna cum laude from the University of Missouri - St. Louis. She came to Community in 2005. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her son, husband, and dog. She is also an active cyclist.

Wendy Cooper

3S Teacher

M.S. Indiana Wesleyan University

M.S. Southwest Baptist University

B.S. Indiana State

wcooper@communityschool.com

BIO

Wendy Cooper

3S Teacher

M.S. Indiana Wesleyan University

M.S. Southwest Baptist University

B.S. Indiana State

wcooper@communityschool.com

Wendy is a 2004 transplant to St. Louis from Indianapolis. She taught in Indianapolis public schools, Rockwood School District and has been an Assistant Principal in Wentzville School District for the past four years. She is eager to get back into the classroom again!

During her free time (that is not spent at a dance competition or soccer game for her children), she enjoys traveling with her husband.

Rachel Muñoz

3S teacher

M.Ed. Washington University

B.S. Washington University

rmunoz@communityschool.com

BIO

Rachel Muñoz

3S teacher

M.Ed. Washington University

B.S. Washington University

rmunoz@communityschool.com

Rachel graduated with a bachelors in elementary education and psychology, and a masters in education from Washington University. A native Saint Louisan, she lives in South City with her daughter, Sonia. Rachel enjoys walking, running, and playing with her daughter and their dog Sammy, when she's not reading a good book!

Upper Division - Fourth Grade

Robyn Corwin

4N teacher

B.S. Texas State University

rcorwin@communityschool.com

BIO

Robyn Corwin

4N teacher

B.S. Texas State University

rcorwin@communityschool.com

Robyn, a St. Louis native, lived in Austin, Texas for fourteen years. She taught 2nd, 3rd and 4th grade levels in the Leander Independent School District, specializing in math, science and social studies. During her tenure, Robyn helped create a new district math curriculum for 2nd and 3rd grades and taught accelerated math classes. She was nominated for Disney Teacher of the Year. Robyn graduated from Texas State University with honors in education. She and her husband enjoy attending St. Louis sports events, traveling and spending quality time with family and friends.

Erin Kaplan

4N teacher

M.Ed. DePaul University

B.S. Illinois Wesleyan University

ekaplan@communityschool.com

BIO

Erin Kaplan

4N teacher

M.Ed. DePaul University

B.S. Illinois Wesleyan University

ekaplan@communityschool.com

Erin earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from Illinois Wesleyan University. She then worked for Credit Suisse in Chicago on the equity marketing team for four years and went on to earn her Masters of Education in social sciences at DePaul University in Chicago. Erin is passionate about reading, spending time outdoors and her family.

Nikki Dantuono

4S teacher

M.Ed. Wright State University

B.S. Miami University

ndantuono@communityschool.com

BIO

Nikki Dantuono

4S teacher

M.Ed. Wright State University

B.S. Miami University

ndantuono@communityschool.com

Nikki received a masters degree in educational leadership from Wright State University and a BS in elementary education from Miami University, Ohio. Nikki taught First and Second Grades and coached high school boys/girls tennis and girls basketball in Englewood, Ohio, for five years. Nikki then moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, to help open a new school and become the second grade lead teacher. After marriage, she moved to Augusta, Georgia, where she was a math coordinator for Sylvan Learning Center before relocating to St. Louis. Nikki has been the co-director of Simply Mathematics in Webster Groves, has made presentations for Teach for America's teachers, and substituted for Community School before joining the staff in 2010. She was a Lowenhaupt Award winner in 2016. Nikki enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, being outdoors, playing various sports, and playing the piano.

Maureen Ross Lang

4S Teacher

M.A.T. University of Maine

B.A. Providence College

mrosslang@communityschool.com

BIO

Maureen Ross Lang

4S Teacher

M.A.T. University of Maine

B.A. Providence College

mrosslang@communityschool.com

Maureen began her teaching career in a fifth grade classroom in rural Maine before serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer for two years in the Philippines with her husband (who happens to be Community School’s Art Teacher, Dave Lang). Their work focused on providing teachers at all levels, elementary through college, with professional development and training. Following her service abroad, Maureen worked for seven years with an educational non-profit. Maureen adores spending time with her family and two sons, traveling anywhere, gardening and being outdoors. 

Upper Division - Fifth Grade

Nicole Post

5th teacher

M.S. Webster University

B.S. Webster University

npost@communityschool.com

BIO

Nicole Post

5th teacher

M.S. Webster University

B.S. Webster University

npost@communityschool.com

Nicole graduated from Webster University with a bachelor’s in environmental and special education, as well as a master’s in teaching. She maintains dual certification in special and elementary education. Her teaching career began with Americorps and she has since worked in public, charter, and private schools across St. Louis from kindergarten through sixth grade. In 2011, Nicole was chosen for the Master Teacher Fellowship at the St. Louis Art Museum. She loves gardening, cooking, hiking, biking, poetry, art, music and reading. She and her husband have a son and twin girls, all at Community.

Sarah McCarthy

5th teacher

M.Ed. St. Mary's University

B.S. Valparaiso University

smccarthy@communityschool.com

BIO

Sarah McCarthy

5th teacher

M.Ed. St. Mary's University

B.S. Valparaiso University

smccarthy@communityschool.com

A native of Minnesota, Sarah received her bachelor's degree in elementary education from Valparaiso University in Indiana, and her master's in teaching and learning from St. Mary's University in Minnesota. She has teaching experience in second, fourth, fifth and sixth grades, as well as special education - all-in-all, over 23 years of classroom teaching experience. Sarah and her husband have three children.

Kristen Ruckman

5th teacher

M.Ed. Mid-America Nazarene University

B.A. University of Missouri Kansas City

kruckman@communityschool.com

BIO

Kristen Ruckman

5th teacher

M.Ed. Mid-America Nazarene University

B.A. University of Missouri Kansas City

kruckman@communityschool.com

Kristen earned her bachelor of arts in elementary education from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and her master in education degree from the Mid-America Nazarene University. She taught third grade for seven years at Shawnee Mission School District in Overland Park, Kansas, before joining Community's staff in 2002. In 2005, she was named an ISSL Teacher of Distinction. Kristen and her husband have two children.

Upper Division - Sixth Grade

Sarah Brubaker

6th teacher

B.S. University of Missouri St. Louis

sbrubaker@communityschool.com

BIO

Sarah Brubaker

6th teacher

B.S. University of Missouri St. Louis

sbrubaker@communityschool.com

Sarah graduated from University of Missouri-St. Louis with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. She has been teaching for twelve years. Sarah began her teaching career in the St. Louis Public Schools and then spent eight years teaching fifth and sixth grades at Premier Charter School. Sarah grew up in St. Charles and now resides in Chesterfield with her husband and two children. In her free time she enjoys singing, refinishing furniture, and spending time with family and friends.

Darci Cadieux

6th teacher

M.S. Southeastern University

B.A. Saint Louis University

dcadieux@communityschool.com

BIO

Darci Cadieux

6th teacher

M.S. Southeastern University

B.A. Saint Louis University

dcadieux@communityschool.com

Darci graduated with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Saint Louis University and a master’s degree in reading instruction from Southeastern University. She has been teaching for fourteen years, working with the Ladue School District. Darci grew up in Texas until high school, when her family relocated to St. Louis. In her spare time, Darci enjoys reading, writing, exercising, and spending time with family and friends.

Julie Costello

6th teacher

M.S. William Woods University

B.S. University of MO-STL

jcostello@communityschool.com

BIO

Julie Costello

6th teacher

M.S. William Woods University

B.S. University of MO-STL

jcostello@communityschool.com

Julie graduated with a master’s degree in administration from William Woods University in 2007. She has been a classroom teacher, reading specialist, literacy coach, assistant principal, and professional development coordinator and presenter for twenty-seven years. Julie is also certified in reading recovery and early literacy. Most recently, she has studied literacy at Columbia University in New York City. Julie is married to her fourth grade sweetheart, and together they have three children. In her spare time, Julie enjoys reading, boating, and traveling abroad.

Specialist

Dave Lang

Art teacher

M.A.T. University of Maine

B.F.A. School of the Art Institute of Chicago

B.A. Providence College

dlang@communityschool.com

BIO

Dave Lang

Art teacher

M.A.T. University of Maine

B.F.A. School of the Art Institute of Chicago

B.A. Providence College

dlang@communityschool.com

Dave has been Community's art teacher since 2005. He received a bachelor of arts from Providence College in drawing, a bachelor of fine arts from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in video art, and his master's in teaching at the University of Maine. Prior to returning home to St. Louis, David and his wife, Maureen, also spent two years as US Peace Corps volunteers in the Philippines where they worked with teachers at all levels to improve critical thinking and assessment and evaluation skills. David enjoys the outdoors and traveling with his wife and two sons. He pursues his video installation artwork and has exhibited it in conjunction with the Pulitzer Foundation and The Luminary Center. He has also won several awards for his short film work. In 2010, David was the recipient of the ISSL Teacher of Distinction and Emerson Excellence in Teaching awards.

Natalie Westerholt

Band teacher

B.S. Webster University

nwesterholt@communityschool.com

BIO

Natalie Westerholt

Band teacher

B.S. Webster University

nwesterholt@communityschool.com

Natalie received a bachelor of music education with an instrumental emphasis from Webster University. For the last ten years, Natalie has been running a private music studio with lessons in clarinet, saxophone, piano and music theory. She is a woodwind specialist and piano accompanist for various middle and high school band programs across the St. Louis region. She is also an active member of The Piano Teachers' Round Table, an organization dedicated to continuing education for piano teachers. In her free time, Natalie enjoys playing music, camping with her two sons, traveling, and attending concerts.

Debbi Krieg

Discovery Center Coordinator

B.A. Saint Louis University

dkrieg@communityschool.com

BIO

Debbi Krieg

Discovery Center Coordinator

B.A. Saint Louis University

dkrieg@communityschool.com

Debbi has been a Community School librarian since 1999. Her undergraduate degree is from Saint Louis University and she has done post-graduate work in Library Science at the University of Missouri. After a career in banking, Debbi spent 15 years as a homemaker and community volunteer, particularly enjoying those house spent helping out in school libraries. Her hobbies include gardening, tennis, travel and reading, and she is always ready to learn something new, or to go outside and play with her grandchildren.

Alissa Rowan

Drama teacher

B.A. Macalester College

arowan@communityschool.com

BIO

Alissa Rowan

Drama teacher

B.A. Macalester College

arowan@communityschool.com

Alissa received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Directing from Macalester College in Saint Paul, Minnesota and is certified in Elementary Education as well as middle and high school English. Alissa was a founding member of Bedlam Theatre in Minneapolis and has worked in educational outreach, marketing, and development at Center Stage in Baltimore, and at Steppenwolf Theatre and Victory Gardens Theater in Chicago. For the last fifteen years, Alissa has been adapting books and tales for performance and directing shows in schools. As a Teaching Artist with Springboard, she taught literacy and character education through the production of original plays and taught playwriting to fifth graders as part of the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis’ WiseWrite program. In her free time, Alissa enjoys writing plays, reading and spending time with her husband and three children. She is on the Board of the Kirkwood HighSchool Players.

Veronique Gardet

Lower Division French

vgardet@communityschool.com

BIO

Veronique Gardet

Lower Division French

vgardet@communityschool.com

Veronique was born in Marseille, France, and moved to the United States in 2001. She joined the Community faculty in 2010. She began her studies at the Catholic Institute of Paris where she studied English. Veronique is fluent in French, Spanish, and English. Veronique and her husband Cyril have two children - Thomas and Sebastien. Veronique enjoys traveling, cooking, and scuba diving.

Lori Marusic

Upper Division French

M.A.T. Webster University

B.A. Saint Louis University

lmarusic@communityschool.com

BIO

Lori Marusic

Upper Division French

M.A.T. Webster University

B.A. Saint Louis University

lmarusic@communityschool.com

Before coming to Community in 1994, Lori taught at a local high school. She received a bachelor of arts in French and education from St. Louis University and completed her master of arts in teaching at Webster University in 1998. In addition to her French credentials, she is a certified reading specialist. Lori was selected to participate in the New Technologies Institute at Iowa State University, as well as the FLES Institute sponsored by Concordia College. Lori has also shared her knowledge of French as an instructor for St. Louis Community College’s Continuing Education and College for Kids Programs. Lori and her husband have two children, one a Community graduate and the other a current student. She currently serves on the board of directors for the St. Louis Language Immersion School.

Sandra Cirrito

Lower Division Learning Center

M.Ed. Boston College

B.S. Boston College

scirrito@communityschool.com

BIO

Sandra Cirrito

Lower Division Learning Center

M.Ed. Boston College

B.S. Boston College

scirrito@communityschool.com

Sandra has her bachelor's degree in elementary education and her master's in special education/curriculum development from Boston College. She has been at the school since 2003, and has won Community's Lowenhaupt Award. Sandra enjoys traveling with her husband, John and visiting family in Boston. She and her husband have one son, a student at Community.

Rita Scott

Upper Division Learning Center

M.A. University of Missouri St. Louis

B.S. University of Missouri St. Louis

rscott@communityschool.com

BIO

Rita Scott

Upper Division Learning Center

M.A. University of Missouri St. Louis

B.S. University of Missouri St. Louis

rscott@communityschool.com

Rita received a B.S. in elementary education as well as an M.A. in special education from the University of Missouri- St. Louis. She has more than twenty years of teaching experience working with grades four through eight. Prior to coming to Community School in 2012, she taught at Clayton Academy. Rita enjoys spending time with her husband and four children, as well as cooking, gardening, music and vacationing at the beach.

Abby Reed

Math Specialist

B.S. Missouri Baptist University

areed@communityschool.com

BIO

Abby Reed

Math Specialist

B.S. Missouri Baptist University

areed@communityschool.com

Abby holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from Missouri Baptist University. Her teaching experience in independent schools spans multiple years at the elementary level, having taught junior kindergarten, second grade, third grade, and fourth grade. In addition, Abby was the 2014 recipient of the Yvonne Banks Caring Teacher Award while working at Lake Forest Country Day School in Lake Forest, IL. She is also a teacher trainer for the Math in Focus program and facilitates professional development for schools across the country. She began working at Community School in 2015 in second grade and transitioned to the math specialist position in 2017.

Meriam Dwidar

Lower Division Music

M.Ed. University of Missouri St. Louis

B.S. Missouri State University

mdwidar@communityschool.com

BIO

Meriam Dwidar

Lower Division Music

M.Ed. University of Missouri St. Louis

B.S. Missouri State University

mdwidar@communityschool.com

Meriam received her bachelor's degree in vocal music from Missouri State University, and a master's degree in educational leadership from the University of Missouri St. Louis. She studied middle-eastern music in Cairo, Egypt, for a year, and has taught over twelve years at Premier Charter School. She was born and raised in St. Louis to immigrant parents from Egypt. In her spare time, Meriam enjoys traveling, scrapbooking, crafting, and playing with her cats.

Jennifer Sheehan

Upper Division Music

B.M. The Juilliard School, Advanced Cert. City University of New York - Brooklyn College

jsheehan@communityschool.com

BIO

Jennifer Sheehan

Upper Division Music

B.M. The Juilliard School, Advanced Cert. City University of New York - Brooklyn College

jsheehan@communityschool.com

Jennifer received a bachelor’s in voice from The Juilliard School and an advanced certificate in music education from the City University of New York at Brooklyn College. She taught in guest residencies at Juilliard and in New York schools, led master classes for young people around the country, and maintained a private voice studio. During her time in New York, Jennifer sang at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Café Carlyle, Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, and more. For several years, she performed in “The Radio City Christmas Spectacular.” During her free time, Jennifer enjoys dance, yoga, good books and podcasts! She likes to hike, bike, and travel.

Christine Bugnitz

Lower Division P.E.

M.A.T Southeast Missouri State University

B.S. SIU Edwardsville

cbugnitz@communityschool.com

BIO

Christine Bugnitz

Lower Division P.E.

M.A.T Southeast Missouri State University

B.S. SIU Edwardsville

cbugnitz@communityschool.com

Christine came to Community in 1989 as a physical education teacher for grades 1 through 6 after working for the Girls’ Club of St. Louis as Sports and Activities Program Director. She received a bachelor of science in health education from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville and a masters of arts in teaching in physical education from Southeast Missouri State University. Chris is a certified Alpine Tower Leader. She is the Head Coach of the John Burroughs boy’s and girl’s cross-country team and assistant boys' and girls' track coach at John Burroughs. In 2009, Chris was the recipient of the ISSL Teacher of Distinction and Emerson Excellence in Teaching awards. She loves taiko drumming, writing poetry, the outdoors, running, biking and working out. She and her husband, Paul, travel the country and love taking care of their chihuahua Rosalita.

Nancy Schmer

Upper Division P.E.

B.S. Colorado State University

nschmer@communityschool.com

BIO

Nancy Schmer

Upper Division P.E.

B.S. Colorado State University

nschmer@communityschool.com

Nancy holds a B.S. in Exercise and Sport Science from Colorado State University, and joined Community in 2002. Nancy has taught P. E. both in the Webster Groves and Clayton School Districts. She has coached five different sports at the high school level (at five different high schools!). In addition, Nancy is a varsity Field Hockey coach at John Burroughs and a certified high school lacrosse official. She and her husband, Frank, have a daughter and a son, both graduates of Community School. In her spare time, Nancy enjoys playing and watching sports, coaching and photography.

Wayne Scott

Upper Division P.E.

M.S. Northwest Missouri State University

B.S. Oral Roberts Universitiy

wscott@communityschool.com

BIO

Wayne Scott

Upper Division P.E.

M.S. Northwest Missouri State University

B.S. Oral Roberts Universitiy

wscott@communityschool.com

Wayne joined Community in 2011 after five years at John Burroughs School, where he was a middle school P.E. teacher, as well as basketball, volleyball, and track and field coach. He remains the head JV Volleyball coach there. He has a masters in health and physical education from Northwest Missouri State University and an undergraduate degree in recreation and administration from Oral Roberts University. Wayne was born in Negril, Jamaica, and is a professional beach volleyball player, and represented Jamaica in Olympic qualifying beach volleyball. When he isn't training, Wayne enjoys playing volleyball, basketball, and going camping.

Kathy Lepsky

Upper Division Science

M.A. University of Missouri St. Louis

B.S. University of Missouri Columbia

klepsky@communityschool.com

BIO

Kathy Lepsky

Upper Division Science

M.A. University of Missouri St. Louis

B.S. University of Missouri Columbia

klepsky@communityschool.com

Kathy is the Upper Division Science Teacher. Kathy received her Bachelor of Science degree in education from the University of Missouri Columbia and her M.A. in education from the University of Missouri St. Louis. She began her career teaching seventh grade science for nine years in a public school setting, then taught 4th-6th grade science for six years at Chesterfield Day School. Kathy lives in St. Charles with her husband Jason and daughter. During her free time, Kathy loves to travel, spend time outdoors, volunteer at church, and enjoy the company of her family and a Labrador Retriever and two cats.

Tracy Malke

1st & 2nd Grade Science

M.A. University of Missouri Columbia

B.S. University of Missouri Columbia

tmalke@communityschool.com

BIO

Tracy Malke

1st & 2nd Grade Science

M.A. University of Missouri Columbia

B.S. University of Missouri Columbia

tmalke@communityschool.com

Tracy received her B.S. and M.A. in education from the University of Missouri - Columbia. She began her career as a speech pathologist for the Special School District, and then taught second grade for twenty years in the Lindbergh School District, specializing in science. She joined the Community faculty in 2012.

Rob Knight

Woodshop

M.S. University of Missouri Columbia

B.S. University of Missouri Columbia

rknight@communityschool.com

BIO

Rob Knight

Woodshop

M.S. University of Missouri Columbia

B.S. University of Missouri Columbia

rknight@communityschool.com

Rob has taught at Community since 1997. He has a bachelor of science in social work and child development and a master's degree in social work from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Before coming to Community, Rob was a clinical social worker at Child Center of Our Lady. Woodworking has been a hobby of Rob's for many years. In his free time, he enjoys camping, hiking, gardening, and cooking. Rob and his wife, Julie, have three children.

Joe Mohr

Woodshop

B.S. Winona State University

jmohr@communityschool.com

BIO

Joe Mohr

Woodshop

B.S. Winona State University

jmohr@communityschool.com

Joe Mohr is a certified elementary classroom teacher who double majored in Elementary Education and Special Education from Winona State University in Minnesota, Joe has taught in Chicago, Portugal and St. Louis. He even started a woodshop program for children with autism while teaching in Chicago. Joe is also a freelance writer, illustrator (Robot+Bike=Kitten) and cartoonist (Broster, etc.). He, his wife, and his three children enjoy traveling, camping, biking, playing sports, going on nature hikes, and just generally being together.

Building & Grounds

Keith Dudley

Facilities Manager

kdudley@communityschool.com

Kevin Bell

Evening Facilities Supervisor

kbell@communityschool.com

Mary Daus

Maintenance

mdaus@noemailaddress.com

Sharon Mers

Maintenance

smers@noemailaddress.com

Linda Knowles

Maintenance

lknowles@noemailaddress.com

Edgar Davis

Maintenance

edavis@noemailaddress.com

Food Services

Rose Roberts

Chef

r.roberts@sagedining.com

Karen Birdsong

Kitchen

kbirdsong@noemailaddress.com

Rose Stuart

Kitchen

rstuart@noemailaddress.com

CJ Haines

Kitchen

chaines@noemailaddress.com