All Staff Bios 16-17 - Twin Cities Academy

Elizabeth Neilson – HS English
I define myself as a teacher, traveler, wife, cat lady, and hockey fanatic. I've been to seven countries (Canada,
Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Vatican City, and Iceland) and will be traveling with my husband Mark to
Australia and New Zealand in November. My husband of seven years and I have two cats, Venom and Ivy, and
recently moved to the Lowertown neighborhood of St. Paul. I also live and breathe hockey in the winter; I
haven't missed a game at St. Cloud State since I was five, and I cheer for a handful of NHL teams (including, of
course, the hometown Wild!) Teaching is my passion and I cherish every moment of it, both the ups and
downs. I'm excited to be joining TCA and cannot wait to meet the faculty, staff, and students!
Chad O’Leary – HS Biology
Before joining Twin Cities Academy, I worked at Paideia Academy, a charter school in Apple Valley, Minnesota. I
attended White Bear Lake Public Schools and graduated from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota with an
undergraduate focus in biology. I later obtained my master's degree from Saint Mary's University and am currently
finishing a second master's degree in education from the College of St. Scholastica. I worked for several years on
global amphibian declines at Vanderbilt University, where my work was published in scientific journals. Before
teaching, I spent 10 years working with middle and high school youth in non-profit settings. I live on the east side of
St. Paul with my husband Troy, and enjoy all things outdoors, I have five cats (Snurp, Hattie, Hobbes, Eleanor &
Sophie), travel, and hunting for the St. Paul Winter Carnival Medallion. I am also an award-winning baker at the
Minnesota State Fair and have been to all 50 states.
Ian Klein – Physical Education (MS)
I grew up on Long Island, New York (about 15 minutes from Manhattan). I received a bachelor’s degree in
business at a small division III College in New Jersey where I also played baseball. Shortly after graduating I
moved to Colorado where I worked at an outdoor camping gear manufacturer, managing their international
marketing and sales division. After 5 years and meeting my wife (also from NY), we moved to Minneapolis for
her new job. At that point I decided to reevaluate career and consider a new path, one that has always lurked
in the back of my mind, becoming a physical education teacher. I recently graduated from Concordia
University St. Paul with a Health (5-12) and Physical Education (K-12) degree and license, and could not be
more excited to be a part of Twin Cities Academy.
Lindsey Rheingans – 7th & 8th History
Hello! My name is Lindsey Rheingans. I grew up just outside of Seattle, Washington and moved to St. Paul in
2007 to attend Bethel University. After college I served for two years with Americorps at a high school and
middle school in the Saint Paul Public Schools. My role was to support students who were targeted as at risk of
dropping out of high school and to coordinate academic, behavioral, and attendance interventions for them.
This experience confirmed a life-long passion and commitment for educational equity. In 2014 I moved out to
the Los Angeles area for my husband's graduate program. While in California I completed my teaching
credential in Social Studies and Master's degree--graduating from both this past spring. My husband and I
made the move back to Minnesota a few weeks ago and are looking forward to getting settled in St. Paul in
August. I'm really looking forward to getting to know all of you this year and to partnering with you to support
TCA's students.
Amanda Ruskin - Middle School French Teacher
I recently completed a Master's in French from Minnesota State University-Mankato. My thesis project
examined linguistic interference in multilinguals (in other words, how multilinguals usually manage to speak the
language they intended to, but sometimes another language sneaks in). At this moment, I am spending my 6th
summer working at Lac du Bois (Concordia Language Villages), where we teach French in an immersive
summer camp. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our dog, and knitting. In any
language, I have a fine appreciation for puns and bad jokes. I am excited to join the TCA staff!
Emily (Janssen) Gustafson – MS Math
Hi! My name is Emily Gustafson. This is my fourth year of teaching middle school math. I just relocated to St.
Paul from Houston, Texas. I graduated from Iowa State University in 2013 and am currently pursuing my
Master's degree from Peru State College in Curriculum and Instruction. I was just married in July! Outside of
school, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, traveling and crafting.
Alison Graversen – High School History
I am beginning my first year teaching at TCA and my 8th year as an educator. Previously, I taught social
studies at Quest Academy and Minnesota International Middle School. This year I will be teaching 10th grade
U.S. History and 12th grade Geography. Outside of school, I am a yoga instructor and outdoor enthusiast. I
love exploring the city trails as well as outstate Minnesota with her dog Harper.
Melissa Choquette – Band/Music Teacher
Greetings! My name is Melissa, and I am thrilled to be joining the TCA team this Fall! I moved to Minneapolis
from Sioux City, Iowa, in 2010 to attend the U of M. Since then, I have enjoyed sampling all the local food,
parks, and live music the Twin Cities have to offer. This will be my second full year of teaching, and I am most
excited to explore the unique musical tastes of the TCA student community. I look forward to meeting and
working with you!
Angela Picha – MS/HS Algebra
Hello, my name is Angela Picha and I'm originally from Woodbury, MN. I graduated from Minnesota State
University, Mankato in 2010 with a degree in Mathematics Teaching and I am licensed to teach grades 512. I have been teaching mostly Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 for the last six years, ranging from rural to
urban school settings. I am always looking to improve my teaching skills by collaborating with other
teachers and attending training opportunities. I have a passion for teaching and I enjoy sharing my
knowledge with students and others.
Last August, I got married and have been enjoying married life! When I am not spending time with my
husband, I love to read, journal, sing, scrapbook, go for walks, and bake chocolate chip cookies.
Jonathon Hughes – 6th Grade Science
Born and raised in Reno, Nevada nestled against the Sierra Nevada mountains, I received my bachelor's
degree in Elementary Education from the University of Nevada, Reno and my Master's Degree in Education
from Graceland University. I taught middle school science for 5 years and upper elementary grades for 3 years
before moving up to beautiful and historic Hudson, WI last summer. I enjoy getting outside, backpacking and
learning Hebrew. I am looking forward to a great year as the 6th grade science teacher at Twin Cities
Academy.
Lisa McCarthy – HS Spanish
My name is Lisa McCarthy and I will be teaching high school Spanish in the fall. I live here on the east side with
my partner Kelsey and my cat Macchiato (Maki) (as seen in the picture behaving like an angel). I am exited to
be working and living in the same community after commuting to Maple Grove for 2 years while working at
Beacon Academy Charter School. I went to school at Northern Michigan University and enjoyed exploring the
outdoors in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I love theater, running, and photography and am excited to meet
all of you in August!
Melissa Duhn – Algebra II & Precalculus
Greetings TCA! My name is Ms. Melissa Duhn, and I'll be teaching Algebra 2 and Pre-Calculus this year.
I'm originally from the Alexandria, MN area, and I graduated from the U of M with a Bachelors of Civil
Engineering. After graduating, I moved to Jacksonville, FL for a few years. It was there that I found my
way into the classroom, teaching an SAT course, Remedial Algebra, and even a year of Psychology! I am
thrilled to be back in the Twin Cities with my husband, Jesse and our cat, Chewy. When I'm not at school
I love reading, playing video games, and doing yoga. I'm excited to make this school year great!
Zac MacLean – 6th and 7th Social Studies
Hello, my name is Zac MacLean and I am the new 6-7 Social Studies Teacher. This will be my 5th year
teaching. I have a BA in Psychology and am currently finishing a MA in Instruction. My goal as a teacher is to
help guide students to be well-informed and confident young people. When not teaching, I like to spend as
much time as I can with my wife, kids and dog. I have a 2 year old, a 10 month old and a giant Newfoundland.
We tend to do a lot of camping and canoeing in the summer. I am also a woodworker. I have occasionally sold
my work but mostly like to make things for friends and family. Most recently, I have been making a lot of canoe
paddles! I am thrilled to be joining the TCA Staff!
Erin Enquist – 6th English
This will be my first year teaching at Twin Cities Academy and living in Minnesota. I earned bachelor's degrees
in Literary Studies and Communication Studies from Iowa State University and a Master's degree from
Simpson College. I have substitute taught for a couple of years and have enjoyed working with students of all
ages and in different subjects. I am excited to get to know my sixth graders and create a community of
learners.
Aschembaga Jaafaru – AmeriCorps Promise Fellow
I am a recent graduate from Hamline University where I studied Theatre Arts and English. In the spring of 2015, I had
the opportunity to study theatre at the Eugene O’Neill Center’s National Theatre Institute. This summer I work with
students as a Coordinator for Penumbra Theatre Company’s Summer Institute Program. I am an alum from Twin
Cities Academy and am excited to return as Promise Fellow.
I am an avid learner and enjoys playwriting, acting and directing. Some of my favorite methodologies for theatre stem
from the techniques/practices of Augusto Boal and Paulo Freire with pedagogy and theatre of the oppressed. I
strongly believe in art for social change and the power of what the stage can do for people. My goals for the future
are to continue to cultivate my craft as an actor and pursue grad school, to continue to be involved with youth
teaching theatre, and to be an actor for a theatre company.
Chris Jackson – AmeriCorps Promise Fellow
My name is Chris Jackson. I will be working as a Promise Fellow through AmeriCorps providing students with
any support they need and delivering a variety of activities to keep students at T.C.A. actively engaged. I just
graduated from Bethel University with a B.A. in History and Social Studies Education. I enjoy learning about
new things, staying active, and relaxing with friends and family.
Chris Church – School Psychologist
I am new to TCA this year and am really excited to be part of the TCA community! I have worked as a school
psychologist for the last six years. Prior to that I worked as a therapist in private practice. I enjoy being
outdoors, eating ice cream, and spending time with my friends and family.
Carmen – Metty – Special Education Teacher
I am very excited to meet all of you. I am a SLD teacher for grades 9-12. I have 9 years of experience in this position
and this is my first year at Twin Cities Academy. I love being a teacher and helping nurturing the minds of young
adults. I attended UW Stout and received my BS in Art Education, then I went on to teach at the University of
Minnesota in Painting where I earned my Master's in Fine Arts in Painting. After I became a mother I went back to
pursue teaching special education. I received my credentials at UW Stevens Point in Cross Categorical Special
Education finishing with a Master's in Education-General. I have 2 beautiful twin girls who are in their last year of High
School. I was born and raised in Stillwater Minnesota. I enjoy making art, cooking and reading.
Bryce Rasmussen – Chemistry Teacher
I am Bryce Rasmussen and will be teaching chemistry this upcoming school year. I taught chemistry and was
and Avid Teacher at Coon Rapids High School for the past five years. I am an avid bike commuter and cyclist
and love using technology in my classroom, and am looking forward to working at TCA!
Betsy Lueth– Executive Director
Betsy Lueth has been in charter school administration since 2006, prior to that she taught in St. Paul public
schools and at Academia Cesar Chavez charter school for over five years. Prior to becoming an educator, she
worked in International Business for 15 years. She received her Master's in Educational Leadership from the
University of St. Thomas and is currently continuing her studies of school leadership at the University of
Minnesota. She lives with her husband, daughter, two cats, one dog, eight chickens and two miniature donkeys
on her farm in Lino Lakes. She is passionate about urban education and closing the achievement gap as a
pathway to equity. She is delighted to be the leader of Twin Cities Academy.
Ilse Larsen– Athletic Director
Ilse Larsen is Twin City Academy's high school Athletic Director. She attended Lawrence University in
Appleton, Wisconsin where she majored in French and Education and played tennis for the school team,
specializing in doubles. She has lived in St. Paul for over 30 years with her husband, her 15 year old daughter,
and her 12 year old son (oh, and their 6 year old dog Coco). In her down time Ilse enjoys working out, playing
tennis, watching sports, reading, cooking, and knitting (not in any particular order). Look for her at our home
sports games while you cheer on our Stars!
Sarah Ancel- English teacher
I have been at Twin Cities Academy for nine years now and I teach 7th grade English, Extensions and Literacy.
I attended the University of Minnesota Twin Cities for my Bachelor of Arts in English and Hamline University for
my Master of Arts in Teaching degree. My husband Justin and I live in Brooklyn Park with our two fur babies,
Charlie and Cooper. A few of my favorite things are: cleaning (vacuuming specifically--yes I know that's weird),
interior decorating, crafting, boxing, 90's music, READING (currently mystery novels are my addiction),
planning events/parties, traveling, trying new restaurants, and of course working with middle school students!
Nate Schultz- English teacher
Mr. Schultz teaches tenth and twelfth grade English, and e coaches the Twin Cities Academy Speech Team. He loves entering into conversations with young people about literature because he learns at least as much from students as they learn from him. His personal mission is to ensure that young people develop and express their thoughts in ways that others can best hear them. He graduated summa cum laude from the University of St. Thomas with a Bachelor’s degree in English and Classics and holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from Hamline University. Mr. Schultz is currently being raised by his three children-­‐-­‐Callum, Lily, and Soren. Terri Ausen- Transportation Manager It is my greatest pleasure getting to know the wonderful students, families and staff at TCA.
I have worked here doing numerous different jobs since 2009. This year I am focusing on food service,
transportation and other miscellaneous tasks. Both of my kids attended the middle school and my son
graduated from TCAHS. I no longer sit in the front office but will be very happy to have visitors in my new office.
I have a degree from the University of Minnesota in Electrical Engineering.
Elizabeth Orme- Director of Student Services
Elizabeth Orme, Director of Student Services and Accountability, is beginning her 6th year at Twin Cities
Academy. Elizabeth received her undergraduate degree at the University of Iowa (Go Hawks!) in Psychology
and English. She then went on to work in educational research and found herself on a path to get her Master's
degree at DePaul University in Special Education. She worked at TCA as a special education teacher and
coordinator for 4 years before receiving her administrative licensure at the University of Saint Thomas and
becoming part of the TCA administrative team. Elizabeth enjoys spending time with her husband, Steve, and
daughter, Madeline.
Scott Lindholm – Physical Education
Hi, everybody!
Mr. Lindholm here.
This is going to be my 9th year at TCA and I am beyond excited to have our new building coming to fruition! I
love baseball and work for the Twins when I am not teaching Health/Phy Ed; coaching high school baseball or
middle school soccer; or hanging out with my wife and two step-daughters.
I graduated from Winona State University and grew up an hour north of St. Paul in the beautiful river town of St.
Croix Falls.
I also really enjoy all things summer and eating (devouring) green olives and cheese curds.
Go Twins!
Camille Snyder- Art teacher
My name is Camille Snyder and I am the Visual Arts Teacher at TCA for the 2016/2017 school year. I
graduated with an arts education degree from Hope College in Holland, Michigan. When I am out of the
classroom you can find me on a road trip, at a concert, snuggling my dog, or eating donuts and cupcakes. My
favorite artistic medium is hand-building clay and charcoal drawings. I am excited to fire up the new kilns this
year!
David Mitsch- English teacher
Hi! My name is Dave Mitsch and I am one of the middle school Special Education teachers at Twin Cities
Academy. This is my fourth year at TCA and I'm excited to be in the new building! I graduated from the
University of Minnesota with a history degree, and I also received a social studies teaching license from the
U. I received my special ed license from Augsburg College. I lived in Boston, Massachusetts for two years and
I'm a big Red Sox fan. I enjoy reading, watching TV and movies and I play guitar, bass and drums.
Bob Skweres- Paraprofessional
Mr. Bob
Currently attending Bethel U. earning my License in 5-12 Social Studies and Special Ed with a concentration
on Autism.
Resident of St. Paul for over 46 years. Married with two teenagers. Over 20 years of coaching experience in
baseball,
softball, football, soccer and hockey.
Norka Avignon- Paraprofessional Hello! My name is Ms. Avignon, and I am excited to be entering my second year as a staff member at Twin
Cities Academy. I actually attended TCA myself as a middle school student. Currently, I work with students in
middle and high school classrooms. I am one of six daughters and because of this I am very passionate about
empowering students — young women in particular. I believe in honesty, respect, hard work and serving
others. I am currently a student myself pursuing a degree in organizational leadership with a minor in health. I
enjoy music, dance, writing, spending time with my family and friends and a good book. I look forward to
meeting you all.
Jon Vik- Special Ed Teacher
I have a background filled with joyous memories of teaching elementary school for the past 15 years but came
to TCA 2 years ago as a special education teacher in the middle school. This year I will be adding time as a
reading intervention teacher. I'm also looking forward to coaching TCA's first 6th grade soccer team this fall. Go
Tigers!
Emily Cook- Behavioral Specialist
I went to college at Winona State University. This will be my second full year at TCA. I started as a
Paraprofessional and I will starting a new role this year as a Behavioral Specialist. I am so excited to be in our
new school!
Alexandra Long- Paraprofessional
I am a Minnesota native, born and raised. I graduated from St. Paul Central in 2003 and I jumped right into the
working world. In 2004 I started my career with SPPS, where I was for 11 years. Over those years I worked in
many different school and classroom settings. I have really focused on sharpening my skills in behavior
management as well as role modeling life skills. This is my second full year at TCA and I look forward to
continue being a resource in the classroom for the students.
Rob Cech- Paraprofessional
Hi! I will be the math interventionist at TCA this year, which means I will have my own classes to help a select
few students with math fluency. I graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2014 with a degree in child
psychology, and I am returning to school this Fall to work on my math teaching degree/ license.
In my free time I love hiking, camping, reading, playing tennis, and skiing. In the Summer I get into the woods
with my hammock as often as I can, and in Winter I usually go skiing in the mountains out West.
I hope everyone has had a great Summer, and I will see you in a few weeks!
Cassandra LaFleur- French Teacher
Bonjour et Bienvenue,
My name is Cassandra Avignon Lafleur. I was born in Haiti but have lived in the states most of
my life. I now live in St. Paul with my husband. I graduated from Bethel University with my
bachelor's degree k-12 French Education and Concordia University with my Master of Education
in Differentiated Instruction. This will be my fourth year teaching French at Twin Cities
Academy. I love teaching and sharing my knowledge of the French language with my Students.
During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and have a great love for
travel, music and dance.
Sarah Plattes- Math Teacher
Hello! My name is Sarah Plattes and I teach middle school math at TCA. I graduated from the University of
Northwestern, Saint Paul in 2011. I enjoy going to the Boundary Waters, puppies, eating ice cream, and
spending time with my husband and son. I love Twin Cities Academy and I'm excited to be back for another
year!
Stephanie Forester- Special Education teacher
Hi, my name is Stephanie Forster. I am a Special Education Teacher at TCA. I received my Bachelors Degree
from Minnesota State University in Interior Design and Business. After volunteering in my children's
classrooms, I decided to change careers. I went back to school to get my teaching license in Special Education
- Learning Disabilities. I am currently working toward my Masters. When I am not teaching, I enjoy spending
time with my fiance, our three kids and our black lab Spotsy. My kids are Aidan age 8, Emily age 10 and Cam
age 11. We are very involved with our children's sports and activities. In the summer we enjoy going up north
to our cabin and spending time with family and friends. I also enjoy cooking and reading. I am looking forward
to a wonderful year at TCA!
Liz Wiggen- Community Outreach Specialist
Hello everyone! I am excited to be returning to TCA this year in a new position, as our
Community Outreach Coordinator. Previously, I have taught health elective courses at TCA. A
little about me- I am a Minnesota native who loves to be active outdoors hiking, biking, camping,
and swimming. I graduated from Augsburg College with a BS. in health education and I earned
my master’s degree in sustainable communities from Northern Arizona University. I have a deep
passion for social justice, environmental sustainability, and love working with our incredible
youth! It is my hope to create bridges between students, families, and our community, and
create meaningful experiences that address important issues in our community.
Tom Corcoran- Science Teacher
My name is Tom Corcoran. I went to school in Rochester and the University of Wisconsin - Whitewater. I like
all sports but baseball most of all, traveling, dogs, physics, trivia questions from Scott Lindholm, games and
spending time with my wife Heather, son Teddy and two golden retrievers Physics and Sushi. I coach cross
country and baseball and have taught in Wisconsin, Maryland, Japan and Minnesota. My favorite color is
orange.
Karissa Gibson- Behavioral Specialist
Hello everyone! I am Karissa M Gibson Behavioral Specialist here at TCA by way of the University of MN-Twin
Cities, Fed 4 setting school in Saint Paul, and other various avenues around the cities. I am a mother of a
beautiful, intelligent, and energetic young lady who gives me so much life and energy. Some of my passions
are enriching youth to better themselves, dancing in various genres (for therapy, performing, teaching, etc), and
staying positive with a smile.
Casey Magnuson- English Teacher
Hello! My name is Casey Magnuson and I teach 8th grade English. I earned a degree in English from Hamline
University in St. Paul and have a teaching license from the University of Minnesota, where I am also working on
my Master's degree. I have taught before at a school in New Orleans, Louisiana, where I used to live, and while
New Orleans is amazing, there's no place like home. This is my second year at TCA. I love to bike around the
cities, read crime novels and watch football (Geaux Saints!) and soccer (Hala Madrid!). See you soon!
Alexandra Howes-English Teacher
Alexandra Howes is a Minneapolis native. She received her B.A. in English/Creative Writing and Theatre at
Hollins University in Roanoke, VA. After graduation she worked in professional theatre before she joined the
JET Programme and taught English for two years in Fukuoka, Japan. When she returned to the United States,
she acquired her M.A. in Education from what is now St. Catherine University. At Twin Cities Academy she
teaches high school English and also oversees the high school theatre program. When she isn't teaching, she
enjoys reading, writing, and climbing mountains.
Lynn Delesha-Media Specialist
I love reading and traveling and books are passports to fantastic places!
I’ve worked in many countries as an educator and visited so many more
through reading. Check out a book from the library and go on a fantastic
adventures.
Bre’Elle Erickson-Theater Teacher
Ms. Erickson went to Hamline University where she majored in Theatre Arts and earned her teaching license in
K-12 Theatre/Dance. She is an avid bookworm, theatre artist, and an appreciator of films made in the 80's and
early 90's. In addition to TCA, she also teaches theatre classes at the Children's Theatre in Minneapolis. She
likes coffee, Disney, and her pet bunny rabbit named Basil.
Samantha Dusek- School Counselor
I am the School Counselor for all students in grades 6-12. I received my Bachelors degree in Psychology in
2009 from the University of Wisconsin - River Falls. I always knew I wanted to work in education and be a
School Counselor so I went back to get my Masters of Education in School Counseling from UWRF and
graduated in 2012. I started working at TCA the fall of 2012. I look forward to working with all the students,
families and staff of TCA this year!
Craig Koch- Social Studies Teacher
Craig Koch has taught social studies at Twin Cities Academy for 16 years. He currently instructs 9th grade
World History and 11th grade Civics and Economics. Besides teaching, some of Mr. Koch's favorite things
include: parenting, listening to music, collecting vinyl records, going to shows, exercise, reading, Halloween,
and Colorado.
Brenda Reedy- Front Office Manager
Hi my name is Brenda and I will be working at the Front Desk in the Office. A little about me, I attended the
University of South Dakota graduating with a BS in Education and keep my teaching license current in the state
of MN. I started at Twin cities Academy in March 2016 as a Lead Paraprofessional, prior to that I worked at
Paideia Academy for 1 1/2 years as an Instructional Assistant/Long Term Sub and in the Hopkins School
District for 18 years as a Special Education Paraprofessional. I enjoy the atmosphere of working with students
and the great staff at TCA. When I'm not at work, I enjoy baking, reading, crafting, scrapbooking and spending
time with my family and attending many sporting events in the area. I am married and have two kids, a 15 year
old son and 18 year old daughter who's going off to college this year!! We round out our family with a
menagerie with our dogs, a Jack Russell/Beagle mix and a Pug and two cats.
Lou Bender- Paraprofessional
Lou Bender started her career as a music teacher with a Bachelor of Music from Wesleyan College, the first
school chartered to grant degrees to women. She served for many years in non-profit and faith community
settings, returning to public education in 2012. Ms. Bender currently works for TCA as a paraprofessional in
the Special Services department, and is completing a Master of Arts in Teaching degree from Walden
University in Special Education.
Jackie Morrison- Special Education teacher
My name is Jackie Morrison. I attended Minnesota State University, Mankato and have a bachelor's degree in
Social Studies Secondary Education and a master's degree in Special Education: Learning Disabilities. I have
been teaching at TCA for three years and am currently a high school special education teacher and co-teach
English and Math classes. I love to travel, read, play games, and spend time with my family.
Emily Farlow-Spanish teacher
My name is Emily Farlow and this is my fifth year at TCA, seventh year teaching overall. I received my B.A. in
Spanish Studies in 2008 from the U of M and my teaching license two years later from Bethel University. I
enjoy working with our students and am equally passionate about their academic growth and character
development. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my fiancé Evan and son Gavin and doing dance
fitness, which I recently became certified to instruct. Here's to a great year!
Erin Amundson- Dean of Students
I have been a part of the Twin Cities Academy community since the fall of 2003. I taught middle school science
for 10 of those years, and now serve as the Dean of Students for the school. I very much believe in what we
do here at TCA - fostering the growth of our students to be productive and engaged citizens of the
world. Besides serving as an educator, I am also a dedicated yogi, an avid reader, a beagle lover, a gardening
enthusiast, a Nordeast resident, world traveler, and a believer in life's journey.
Mallory Albright- Freshman Seminar Teacher and
Paraprofessional
My name is Mallory Albright and I am the Freshman Seminar teacher. I am originally from
Chicago, IL and moved to Hudson, WI in 2016. I attended college at Millikin University in
Decatur, IL where is received my B.A in Elementary Education. I recently got engaged in May of
2016 and enjoy planning our wedding in my free time. In the spring I enjoy going to Chicago
Cubs games and in the fall you will find me in Lincoln, Nebraska cheering on the Husker
Football team - Go Big Red! Additionally, I also love spending time with our dog, Otis, traveling,
shopping, and cooking.
Shannon Hady- Coordinator of Student Services
My name is Shannon Hady and I am the Student Services Coordinator at TCA. This is my sixth year at TCA
and I have enjoyed watching the community grow and evolve. I love working in education because I believe
that education empowers people. At home, I have an energetic 2 year old son that keeps me busy! I love to
spend time with him and to travel. I am grateful to be able to work with the staff and students at Twin Cities
Academy!
Shannon Gourley- Dean of Academics
Hello! I joined the TCA community way back when we started in 1999. I have thoroughly enjoyed this long
journey and look forward to all that is ahead of us! I taught special education and reading for over 10 years and
have been in administration for the past 8. Currently, in my role as Dean of Academics, I am allowed the
privilege to work with our teachers to support them in their curriculum development, professional development
and instructional strategies. I enjoy this work, and also enjoy getting to know the students who come through
our doors! Personally, I was born in Wisconsin, but grew up in rural Minnesota. I got my undergraduate
degree at SCSU and both my master's and ed specialist degrees at St. Thomas. I have two daughters who
attend school in Eagan. I enjoy spending time with my family, doing whatever it is that we find fun at the
moment.....maybe mini golf, baking, going to the beach or even movie night with junk food and popcorn. I am
greatly looking forward to the 16-17 school year and all of the exciting changes that are to come!
Maureen McCall- Social Worker
As a school social worker, my goal is to ask the right questions. This will be my 6th year at TCA, and my 42nd (!) working with young people. I find that they continue to impress me with their answers and their viewpoints. My duties include meeting one-­‐on-­‐one with students, and facilitating groups, and connecting students and their families with needed resources. I have loved TCA since the moment I walked in the door. Samantha Berg – Science Teacher
My name is Samantha Berg and I have been teaching 8th Grade Earth Science and middle school STEM for the last three years here at TCA. I attended the beautiful University of Minnesota Duluth for my undergrad and I am currently attending the University of Montana Bozeman for my master’s degree in science. I love to coach as much as I love to teach and here at TCA II coach varsity volleyball and softball. When I am not busy with school I enjoy biking, hiking, reading, board games, and spending times with friends and family. Stephanie Zeitz-Crushshon - Science Teacher Hello! My name is Ms.Z and I am the 7th grade
science teacher this year. I attended Moorhead State University and then graduated from Augsburg college
with a degree in Education and Science. Currently I am attending Augsburg for my Masters in Education. I
love to sew and make things and play sports in my free time. I also enjoy gardening and hope to share that
with my science classes this year.