Welcome, to Brandon Valley's new staff

Brandon  Valley welcomes 30 new educators to the classroom staff for the 2022-23 school year, and many of them are familiar faces to the district. Of the 30 new hires, eight of them are Brandon Valley graduates. This week, the Brandon Valley Journal introduces you to the people charged with educating the district’s most “prized possessions,” our students.

 

MULTIPLE BUILDINGS

 

Karlie Maki

Districtwide School

Psychologist (Office is at Fred Assam Elementary)

With a passion for mental health since early middle school, Karlie Maki also had an interest in childhood education. So, she decided to pursue a social work degree to focus on child protection and to serve children that way.

“During my senior year of college, I learned about the school psychology career; it was the perfect intersection between mental health and education, combining my two interests perfectly,” she said.

Working as the only school psychologist for two to three school districts, Maki said she realized how much she desired to work for “a united, strong district” like Brandon Valley where she joins a team of three school psychologists.

“As I researched the district, I grew more and more excited at the thought of having a close-knit team and the peer support that I’ve always wanted,” she said. “Working for BV also allows me the opportunity to be visible in the schools, do more for teachers and staff, and get to know and build lasting relationships with students and their caregivers. These are aspects of my career that I had previously been unable to fulfill, and I knew BVSD would provide me with opportunities to do so.”

Maki attended 9-11th grades at Pierre High School and graduated in 2013 from Zachary High School. She attended the University of south Dakota for undergrad and graduate school, respectively earning a Bachelor of Science in social work (2017) and Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) for School Psychology in 2020.

Her previous work experience includes a three-year stint (2019-22) for the Southwest West Central Service Cooperative in Minnesota, where she served three school districts.

Maki says the job of school psychologist is one that interests students easily.

“We make standardized testing fun and exciting, offer unwavering support, and strive to provide a safe space for students to be their authentic selves without fear of judgement,” she said. “I’m sure the prizes I give out and the game breaks I’ll do help some, too.”

She and her husband, Devin, have two “fur babies,” Shabba, a 7-year-old Shiba Inu, and Shane, a 6-year-old tuxedo rescue cat. She enjoys time spent with family and friends, tennis, playing with her cat and dog, traveling and experiencing new things.

Some interesting facts about Maki: “I played tennis for the Pierre School District for six years. I was born on Thanksgiving, and I am the only redhead in my immediate family.”

 

Ketty Paula

Physical education at Inspiration and Valley Springs; Coaching

assignment: Freshmen girls’ basketball

“My mom is starting her 37th year of teaching,” shares Ketty Paula, a 2006 graduate of Yankton High School. “She has modeled what a great profession teaching can be.”

Growing up, Paula said she always liked school and PE, and like many of BV’s incoming class of educators, she noted the district’s stellar reputation.

“I love the school spirit and pride the students, staff and community have for the Lynx! Plus, we enjoy the location,” she said.

The “we” she notes is her husband, Jordan, who is the assistant principal at BVHS, and their three children, Bridger, 8, Collins, 6, and Brooks, 2.

Paula previously taught PE for two years at Southwest Middle School in Rapid City (2011-13), three years at South Dakota School of Mines, where she was the assistant women’s basketball coach (2013-16), five years at Minnesota State University-Mankato as the assistant women’s basketball coach (2016-21), and PE/health for one year (2021-22) at Patrick Henry Middle School in Sioux Falls.

At Yankton, Paula was a four-sport athlete all four years of high school, where she played basketball, volleyball, soccer and track. It should come as no surprise that she loves to be active through biking, basketball, volleyball, golf and watching and coaching sports.

 

Ben Wahlstrom

K-4 General Music at Inspiration & Valley Springs

Ben Wahlstrom’s family and love for music are the two reasons behind his career as a music teacher. 

The first-year teacher hails from Custer, where he graduated in 2018 from high school, and then earned a degree in music education in 2022. Wahlstrom student-taught at Rapid City Stevens High School and Southwest Middle School.

“It’s a great district and my family and friends are here,” he said are the reasons he chose Brandon Valley.

Single, Wahlstrom enjoys hiking, rock climbing and swimming, and considers himself as “pretty fun!”

He has two older brothers, Soren and Clayton, and a younger sister, Josey. His parents are Misty and Justin Wahlstrom.

 

BRANDON

ELEMENTARY

 

Carter Larson

Second grade

Vermillion native Carter Larson said the opportunity to have a positive impact on students’ lives is what drew him to a career in education. And BVSD’s “highly-respected” reputation, highlighted by a welcoming community atmosphere, is what drew him here.

The 2022 University of South Dakota graduate completed his student-teaching at Journey Elementary in Harrisburg.

In his classroom, Larson said he strives to build strong relationships with students to create a welcoming environment.”

The youngest of three siblings, the 2018 Vermillion High School graduate enjoys sports, boating with family and friends, and going to concerts.

 

Kaleb McConnell

Vocal Music

Kaleb McConnell says “teachers are people, too.”

And he says that it’s important for students to understand that. So, to be relatable to his students, McConnell says that showing students that he’s human and has ups and downs, helps in building trust and relationships with them.

McConnell graduated from Sioux Falls Roosevelt in 2018 and received a B.A. in music education from the University of Sioux Falls in 2022. 

“Teaching is always something that has interested me, and I have always enjoyed sharing my love of music with others,” he said.

He, too, has heard great things about the BVSD, and said the position keeps him close to his family.

His spare time is filled with baseball, football, hunting, fishing and playing card/board games.

 

FRED ASSAM

ELEMENTARY

 

Chelsea Hall

Third grade

Chelsea Hall is back at Brandon Valley for the third time. Hall’s first run here was as a student, graduating from BVHS in 2010. She taught kindergarten at Brandon Elementary from 2014-16 until moving to Vermillion. There, she taught third grade at Jolley Elementary (2016-17) and fourth grade (2017-22).

“Once a Lynx, always a Lynx,” she said.

While in high school, Hall taught horseback riding lessons and said she truly loved seeing children light up when they learned new skills and saw their confidence grow.

“I figured if I loved seeing children learn then teaching would be a great career choice for me, so I decided that’s what I wanted to do by my senior year of high school,” she said.

As for her return to the BVSD, she said the district has great staff and administrators that she can continue to learn from.

“I attended the district from fourth grade through high school and it’s really neat to be teaching here now,” she said.

Hall gained her B.S. in Education in 2014 from the University of South Dakota.

Hall said she strives to make school fun for all types of learners. 

“I enjoy having the kids be hands-on, working together, creating things, challenging each other and learning through interactive lessons and different review games,” she said. “I also ask my students for their feedback often, and I’m goofy and like to laugh and love to share that with my class.”

She and her husband, Jamie, were married in June 2018, and have “two very spoiled dogs,” Dezi and Lola. Her free time is spent distance running, reading novels, shopping – “I enjoy shopping for just about anything or anyone” – and spending time with family and friends.

A few interesting facts about Hall: She became engaged and married in North Carolina, has never had a broken bone and loves parasailing.

 

INSPIRATION

ELEMENTARY

 

Megan Neuharth

First grade

Megan Neuharth’s fifth-grade teacher made a lasting impact on the Omaha, Neb., native, so much so that she wanted to do the same for others.

“I had an amazing education and I loved school,” she said.

Neuharth graduated from Millard West in 2001 and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science. She added a Masters of Science Education and Elementary Education degree in 2006 from the University of Nebraska-Omaha.

She has taught kindergarten at Omaha (2005-06), Sioux Falls (2006-07) and Mitchell (2009-19), and Begindergarten/Title I at Mitchell (2009-12). She also taught first grade at Pierre (2019-22) and was a librarian at Omaha (2007-08). 

Her belief is that students “learn best by movement and hands-on activities (play).”

Married to Tyler Neuharth, she enjoys golfing, baking, boating, sports, reading and traveling. 

 

ROBERT BENNIS

ELEMENTARY

 

Emily Dilly

Resource teacher

RBE’s new resource teacher has a “dilly” of a last name. Actually, it is her last name.

Emily Dilly, who lists her hometown as “Leota, Minn.,” wanted to join the BV staff for two reasons: “I’ve heard great things about the district (and it’s) close to our new home in Garretson,” she said.

The “our” she notes is her husband, Hunter, a black lab, Nala, and the couple’s soon-to-be first child, who is due to arrive in November.

Dilly graduated from Southwest Christian High School in Edgerton, Minn., in 2017 and earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education in 2021 from Augustana University. Her prior assignments include one year teaching self-contained special education at John F. Kennedy Elementary in Sioux Falls.

It was her younger brother who has Down syndrome and autism that led her toa  teaching career.

She describes her teaching style as “patient” andhas a “calm demeanor”.

Her hobbies are varied, listing music (guitar, flute, piano, vocal), volleyball, hiking and wakeboarding.

A fun fact about her: “I can juggle.”

 

Sarah Greer

First grade

Sarah Greer and her family have lived in Brandon for five years, and this year, she moves up to first grade after teaching kindergarten for 15 years at Tea (three years) and 12 at Pettigrew Elementary in Sioux Falls.

“I love the small-town feel and wanted to teach in the best school district,” said the Dickinson, N.D., native.

It was her mother, who taught first grade, that led her to a teaching career. 

“I will always remember the amazing feeling that I had helping in her classroom. I knew I wanted to become a primary teacher after I made a difference in her students’ lives,” she said.

A 2002 graduate of Dickinson High School, Greer received her undergrad degree from Minnesota State University-Moorhead with a Bachelor of Science in elementary education in 2007. In 2015, she earned her Master’s degree from Southwest Minnesota State University in teaching and leadership.

Greer’s students are surely going to enjoy their daily “dance party.”

“Every day we will end the day with a dance party! We share our favorite part of the day and dance to a couple of songs. All students leave happy and look forward to coming back the next day,” she said.

Greer and her husband, Kelly, have two children, Allie, a fifth grader, and Easton, a second grader. They also have a dog named Charlie. The Greer family enjoys camping and kayaking.

 

Kayci Halbersma

Third grade

As a student at Chamberlain High School, Kayci Halbersma was voted “Busy Bee” for always being on the move and constantly talking. Hired to teach third grade, those traits should bode well for Halbersma, who holds multiple degrees: Early childhood education, 2008, South Dakota State University, elementary education, 2008, Black Hills State University, and Master’s in Teaching, Learning and Leadership, 2012, from Southwest Minnesota State University.

For the past 12 years, Halbersma taught kindergarten for the Sioux Falls School District. She’s elated to now be in the same school district as her three sons, Cannon, fifth grade, Dashel, second grade, and Hendrix, preschool.

“I have always been pleased with the district and their focus on the students,” she said.

Halbersma has also long known that teaching was her calling.

“I grew up playing school and forcing my three brothers to be my students,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to make a difference in the lives of children while sharing my love of learning.”

Her students should know that she “loves laughing and bringing humor into the classroom” and that she aims to build relationships with her students. “I love getting to know them as learners and as people.”

Her husband, Matt, is an engineering project manager. In her spare time, Halbersma enjoys watching movies, shopping and spending time with family and friends.

 

Abby Kaschmitter

Kindergarten

Like father, like daughter.

That’s the reason Abby Kaschmitter pursued a career in education.

“My dad was a teacher and I always wanted to be one like him, and I always loved school,” says the 2000 Sioux Falls Washington High School graduate. Kaschmitter graduated from South Dakota State University with degrees in early education and elementary education, as well as Masters of Reading and Master of Leadership from the University of Sioux Falls.

Her prior teaching assignments include one-year teaching kindergarten at Garretson, 12 years in Sioux Falls, and four years at West Elementary in Polk City, Iowa.

“I am big on building relationships,” she said. “I like to make leraning fun and hands-on.”

She and her husband, Matt, are parents to 11-year-old twin daughters, Kenzie and Avery, and a son, Owen, 6. She enjoys time with friends and family, shopping, cheering on the Minnesota Twins and traveling.

 

VALLEY SPRINGS

ELEMENTARY

 

Jennifer Jensen

Third grade

“Ever since I have been a little girl, I have loved helping children grow their love for learning.”

That was Jennifer Jensen’s response to what led her to a career in education.

It was her student-teaching experience at Fred Assam and Robert Bennis elementaries and BV Middle School that enticed her to teach here.

“I noticed the positive working environment and I knew someday I wanted to be a part of it all,” says Jensen, who graduated from Henry High School in 2016.

From there, she went on to the University of South Dakota earning a degree in elementary and special education. She taught grades 3-6 at Clark from 2020-22.

She describes her personality as “outgoing,” which in turn, “brings a high energy vibe to my classroom. I love keeping my students engaged by incorporating hands-on activities,” she said.

Jensen has a feline “fur baby,” Scout, and enjoys reading and spending time with her family.

 

BRANDON VALLEY

INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL

 

Avery Sage

Fifth grade

From her own personal K-12 experience at Brandon Valley, Avery Sage said she knows how amazing the district is, so she wants her students to have the same positive impact that she had.

Sage ventured to the University of South Dakota and graduated this past spring with a degree in elementary education. It was her own love for school and learning that led her to a career in teaching. She completed her student teaching at Gayville-Volin, where she taught fourth grade and grades 6-8 ELA.

Now at the head of her own classroom, Sage said she will integrate aspects of other subjects into science content “so there is a little bit of something for all students no matter what their favorite subject is.”

Both of her parents work for the Sioux Falls School District and her brother is a senior at BVHS this year. Her spare time is filled with cooking, reading, spending time with family and friends. She’s a huge fan of Taylor Swift and the Marvel movies.

 

Heidi Schultz

School counselor

Heidi Schultz is happy to be helping students in the community in which she’s lived since 1999.

“I enjoy helping students build on their strengths and work through challenges,” says Schultz, who graduated from Lincoln High School in 1993. She obtained a Bachelor of Science in recreation and leisure services from the University of North Dakota in 1999, followed by a MS in school counseling in 2016 from South Dakota State University.

Prior to joining the staff at Brandon Valley, Schultz was a counselor at Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School (three years), Terry Redlin Elementary (five years), and District Behavior Team (two years).

She and her husband, Tabor, have one daughter, Annabelle, who begins her sophomore year at Minnesota State University in Mankato. They also have three dogs, Charlie, a Goldendoodle, Elley, a Malshi, and Katie, a Lhasa Apso.

Schultz says she enjoys being active, reading, shopping, being outdoors and spending time with family and friends.

 

Therese-Anne Wanstrath

Fourth grade

Therese-Anne Wanstrath goes out of her way to make learning fun and hands-on so every student feels important and cared for in her class.

And it’s for similar reasons that drew the Upland, Calif., native to teaching.

“I’ve always loved to learn new things and had a heart for kids,” Wanstrath said.

She graduated in 2000 from Alto Loma High School (Calif.) and obtained her Bachelor of Arts in liberal studies and multiple subject credentials in 2004 from Cal State San Bernandino. Five years later, she added a Masters in Education/Reading Specialist credential to her resume.

Her prior teaching assignments include three years of sixth grade (all subjects), 11 years as reading teacher for grades K-8, and four years as a third-grade teacher.

Her desire to teach at BV is simple: “BV is the No. 1 district in the state and I wanted to work in my new hometown/community,” she said.

She describes herself as a “team player, compassionate and easy to get along with” and enjoys singing, playing piano, reading and volunteering at her church.

Wanstrath and husband, Dave, a retired police officer, and are parents of Emma, a junior at BVHS, and Daniel, a sixth-grader at BVIS. 

 

Mackenzie Wietgrefe

Fifth-grade ELA;

Coaching assignment: BVMS track & field

One might say that Mackenzie Wietrgrefe has FOMO (fear of missing out) – in a good way.

The Monticello, Minn., native, said she had heard good things about Brandon Valley and wanted to be a part of it.

She’s also long known she wanted to be a teacher, and said her students can expect to experience “high energy and tons of enthusiasm” in her classroom.

Teaching 6-7th grade ELA at Aberdeen for two years preceded her position at BVIS. She earned her elementary education degree from Northern State University in 2019, where she also ran track for the Wolves.

She and her husband, Luke, have two dogs and moved into their new home in Brandon this summer. Her list of hobbies include running, hanging out withfriends and family, crafting on her cricut, and reading.

“I consider myself a ‘binge reader,’” she said. “I cannot put a great book down!”

 

BRANDON VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL

 

Kevin Callies

Eighth-grade computer

Kevin Callies has come home to Brandon Valley. The 2003 BV alum begins his teaching career here this school year. He possesses a computer science degree and PhD in Information Systems (2018). 

Nearly 20 years after graduating from high school, he switched career paths.

“I want to improve my community and I have a passion for education,” he said. “I like the school district and my kids go to Brandon (Valley).”

Besides educating our local youth, Callies serves in the South Dakota National Air Guard.

He and his wife, Sarah, have three children, KJ, Annie and William. 

His hobbies are video games, reading, Esports and family time.

A heads-up to his students: “I look meaner than I actually am,” he says.

 

Kailee Duncanson

Seventh-grade geography

Kailee Duncanson grew up surrounded by educators. Her father, grandparents and other family members all pursued the path of education. And now, she is, too.

“I grew up with education held in a high regard, and when it came time to pursue a career it was my biggest interest,” says the 2018 BVHS graduate.

It was through an internship she had in high school in a seventh-grade geography classroom that led her to the subject she will teach.

“I loved every minute,” Duncanson said. “Since then I’ve only grown in my love for working with students and watching/helping them discover all the amazing things this world has to offer.”

Her decision to teach in the district where she attended was based on her personal experience.

“Growing up in Brandon, I loved all my teachers. They were some of my biggest role models from kindergarten and on. I wanted to teach in a community that was active with schools and had a genuine connection between staff, students and community,” she said.

The 2022 University of South Dakota graduate (history education major, English Language Learning minor) did her student teaching at Beresford.

Duncanson strives to integrate various forms of instruction her classroom lessons. She wants every type of learner to feel as though they can excel in her classroom. Direct, indirect, experiential and interactive instruction styles will be used throughout the year through various lessons, activities and projects, she said.

Her parents are Jeff (physical education teacher at Brandon Elementary) and Christa (employer, Avera) Duncanson, and she has a brother, Riley, who teaches at Dell Rapids. Her interests are being in the outdoors, biking, hiking and reading. 

A unique goal she’s aiming to achieve is to visit all 63 national parks in the United States. To date, she’s made it to eight.

 

Kate Fleckenstein

School counselor

Kate Fleckenstein has always known that she’s wanted to work with kids. So, she took the avenue of counselor so that she could provide them with any support services they need to be successful in and out of the classroom.

“BVSD is held in high regard, being well-known for their academics, athletics, and arts. I am excited to start my career working with this community,” said the 2017 Aberdeen Central High School graduate.

From Central, Fleckenstein ventured to Northern State University, where she earned her undergraduate degree in psychology (2020) and Masters in school counseling (2022). 

Fleckenstein wants students to know that has “an open-door policy.”

“If I’m available, my door is always open for students to stop in and chat,” she said. “I also plan on spending a lot of time with kids in small groups. I try to implement icebreakers and games for more fun discussion.”

She exchanged “I do’s” with Rylie Fleckenstein in June, then moved to Brandon, which is the first time she has lived elsewhere since being born and raised in Aberdeen.

Her interests include attending sporting events, crafting and listening to true crime podcats.

 

Annika Hindbjorgen

Science

“Once a Lynx, always a Lynx,” is Annika Hindbjorgen’s answer as to why the 2014 BVHS alum wanted return to teach in the school district she once attended. “The Lynx Way is the right way.”

Hindbjorgen went to Northwestern College, where she earned a degree in biology and secondary science in 2018. Her prior teaching experience include a 2018-20 stint as an outdoor education teacher in the Santa Cruz Redwoods (Calif.) and a sixth-grade science teacher from 2020-22 at Patrick Henry Middle School in Sioux Falls.

It was her first teaching assignment in the outdoors that proved to be a memorable experience.

“My first teaching job was with a slug on my nose, a chicken on my head and hiking 10 miles a day to get students excited. Who knows what tricks I have up my sleeve (for here),” she said.

Hindbjorgen considers herself a “Flexatarian” since she doesn’t eat meat or dairy but loves eggs. Her “roommate” is a “three-legged, giant mutt, named Sarge.” Outside of the classroom, Hindbjorgen serves a director for Camp Leif Ericson, enjoys playing the cello, crocheting and hiking. 

An interesting tidbit about this BVHS alum is that she was in 13 musicals, 11 spring plays and two one-acts.

 

Alyssa Klaudt

Special Education;

Coaching assignment: Head varsity girls’ tennis

Alyssa Klaudt will long remember where her husband, Andrew, proposed marriage to her.

The memorable occasion happened in London, where the 2015 Sioux Falls Washington High School graduate responded with an immediate “Yes!”

It was the open courses she took at Washington and helping in special ed rooms that led her to this career. As for joining the BVSD staff, Klaudt said, “I love the community and many of my past college friends work here.”

She said her youth makes her “relatable” to the kids and lets her students lead.

The Klaudt’s have two dogs, and her list of hobbies are tennis, disc golf, and dog walks.

 

Sultan Lewis

Eighth grade science

With both of his parents being career educators, Sultan Lewis said teaching literally runs through the Arnold, Neb., native’s veins.

After graduating from Arnold High School in 2016, Lewis went to Mount Marty University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2020. His first teaching assignment was for the Bridgewater-Emery School District, where he taught science for grades 6-9.

His desire to join BVSD’s classroom staff was based on the great things he’d been told about the district.

In his classroom, Lewis said students should enjoy his hands-on approach.

“I love working with my hands and tying what is taught to real life,” he said.

He and his wife, Courtney, are expecting a baby in November, and he is a step-father to Bryce. His leisure interests lie in the outdoors.

“I am also an avid golfer and played four years at the college level,” he said.

 

Jon Schouten

Computers; Coaching

assignment: Freshmen boys’ basketball

Jon Schouten is following in his father’s footsteps.

“My father was an educator and coach for over 30 years,” he shares. “Coaching is a passion of mine and teaching allows me opportunities to work with youth and impact them in a positive way.”

Schouten, who graduated in 2007 from James Valley Christian in Huron, went on to Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa, where in 2012 he received a B.A. in elementary education.

His prior assignments – all in Huron – include three years teaching sixth-grade math and social studies (2012-15) and seven years (2015-22) at Buchanan K-1 Center as a K-1 physical education teacher.

Schouten and his wife, Hannah, who is a social worker, have been married for 12 years. They have three children, Kobe, 7, Theo, 5, and Joey, 4. The family had a desire to move to the Sioux Falls area to be closer to family.

“BV is a wonderful school district and we are excited to be part of the community,” he said.

 

Janae Sturma

Special education

Janae Sturm chose a career in education because of her love for working with kids, especially those with special needs.

“I wanted to advocate for those who may need a little help advocating for themselves while emphasizing inclusion,” said the Aberdeen native.

Her path to the BVSD was based on the wonderful things she’s heard about the district.

“The pride they have in their school system is unmatched,” said Sturma, whose previous assignments have been with the Harrisburg and Sioux Falls school districts before returning to college for her teaching certificate. She most recently taught at Lifescape and Teachwell Solutions. “They (BVSD) value the safety, respect and learning of students, treatment of staff, and they offer an abundance of support for the student population. The positive energy within the system, notably the Middle School, is contagious and exciting to be part of.”

Sturma is a graduate of Roncalli High School. She possesses a Bachelor of Science in psychology from SDSU and a Master of Arts in special education K-12 multi-categorical from USD.

Sturma says she sings “a lot”, so it should come as no surprise that she lists “singing, playing live music”, traveling and spending time with friends and family among her hobbies.

“I lead worship for the Table Ministry out of Shenanigans in Sioux Falls,” she said. “In. the summer months you’ll find me playing gigs on different patios around Sioux Falls.”

She and her significant other, Clint Wilson, have three dogs, Murphy, Finley and Quinn.

 

BV HIGH SCHOOL

 

Ben Alberts

Physical education; Coaching assignments: Middle school football,

7th grade boys’ basketball

Ben Alberts’s mother inspired him to become a teacher, and his student-teaching experience at Brandon Valley last year inspired him to seek a full-time position here.

“Growing up, watching my mom as a teacher played a huge role in wanting to become an educator myself,” says the Morris, Minn., native. “Going into college I wanted to find a profession where I could help others and help the community I was in. I thought by becoming a physical education teacher that I could help students find a passion for health and wellness.”

As he applied for teaching positions, Alberts said it was important to find a district that placed a high priority on students’ academic success as well as teaching good character.

“Brandon Valley fits that standard,” he says.

The 2013 Adrian High School graduate went on to Minnesota State University-Moorhead, graduating in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. He added a Master’s in Education to his resume in 2021 from the University of Sioux Falls. He taught K-8 phy ed last year at Woodbury Leadership Academy.

Alberts believes physical education involves more than teaching skills and playing games. His teaching style includes placing a high value on building student relationships.

“It is important to me that all students feel welcome and comfortable in my class friends and family, crafting on her cricut, and reading.

“I consider myself a ‘binge reader,’” she said. “I cannot put a great book down!”

 

BRANDON VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL

 

Kevin Callies

Eighth-grade computer

Kevin Callies has come home to Brandon Valley. The 2003 BV alum begins his teaching career here this school year. He possesses a computer science degree and PhD in Information Systems (2018). 

Nearly 20 years after graduating from high school, he switched career paths.

“I want to improve my community and I have a passion for education,” he said. “I like the school district and my kids go to Brandon (Valley).”

Besides educating our local youth, Callies serves in the South Dakota National Air Guard.

He and his wife, Sarah, have three children, KJ, Annie and William. 

His hobbies are video games, reading, Esports and family time.

A heads-up to his students: “I look meaner than I actually am,” he says.

 

Kailee Duncanson

Seventh-grade geography

Kailee Duncanson grew up surrounded by educators. Her father, grandparents and other family members all pursued the path of education. And now, she is, too.

“I grew up with education held in a high regard, and when it came time to pursue a career it was my biggest interest,” says the 2018 BVHS graduate.

It was through an internship she had in high school in a seventh-grade geography classroom that led her to the subject she will teach.

“I loved every minute,” Duncanson said. “Since then I’ve only grown in my love for working with students and watching/helping them discover all the amazing things this world has to offer.”

Her decision to teach in the district where she attended was based on her personal experience.

“Growing up in Brandon, I loved all my teachers. They were some of my biggest role models from kindergarten and on. I wanted to teach in a community that was active with schools and had a genuine connection between staff, students and community,” she said.

The 2022 University of South Dakota graduate (history education major, English Language Learning minor) did her student teaching at Beresford.

Duncanson strives to integrate various forms of instruction her classroom lessons. She wants every type of learner to feel as though they can excel in her classroom. Direct, indirect, experiential and interactive instruction styles will be used throughout the year through various lessons, activities and projects, she said.

Her parents are Jeff (physical education teacher at Brandon Elementary) and Christa (employer, Avera) Duncanson, and she has a brother, Riley, who teaches at Dell Rapids. Her interests are being in the outdoors, biking, hiking and reading. 

A unique goal she’s aiming to achieve is to visit all 63 national parks in the United States. To date, she’s made it to eight.

 

Kate Fleckenstein

School counselor

Kate Fleckenstein has always known that she’s wanted to work with kids. So, she took the avenue of counselor so that she could provide them with any support services they need to be successful in and out of the classroom.

“BVSD is held in high regard, being well-known for their academics, athletics, and arts. I am excited to start my career working with this community,” said the 2017 Aberdeen Central High School graduate.

From Central, Fleckenstein ventured to Northern State University, where she earned her undergraduate degree in psychology (2020) and Masters in school counseling (2022). 

Fleckenstein wants students to know that has “an open-door policy.”

“If I’m available, my door is always open for students to stop in and chat,” she said. “I also plan on spending a lot of time with kids in small groups. I try to implement icebreakers and games for more fun discussion.”

She exchanged “I do’s” with Rylie Fleckenstein in June, then moved to Brandon, which is the first time she has lived elsewhere since being born and raised in Aberdeen.

Her interests include attending sporting events, crafting and listening to true crime podcats.

 

Annika Hindbjorgen

Science

“Once a Lynx, always a Lynx,” is Annika Hindbjorgen’s answer as to why the 2014 BVHS alum wanted return to teach in the school district she once attended. “The Lynx Way is the right way.”

Hindbjorgen went to Northwestern College, where she earned a degree in biology and secondary science in 2018. Her prior teaching experience include a 2018-20 stint as an outdoor education teacher in the Santa Cruz Redwoods (Calif.) and a sixth-grade science teacher from 2020-22 at Patrick Henry Middle School in Sioux Falls.

It was her first teaching assignment in the outdoors that proved to be a memorable experience.

“My first teaching job was with a slug on my nose, a chicken on my head and hiking 10 miles a day to get students excited. Who knows what tricks I have up my sleeve (for here),” she said.

Hindbjorgen considers herself a “Flexatarian” since she doesn’t eat meat or dairy but loves eggs. Her “roommate” is a “three-legged, giant mutt, named Sarge.” Outside of the classroom, Hindbjorgen serves a director for Camp Leif Ericson, enjoys playing the cello, crocheting and hiking. 

An interesting tidbit about this BVHS alum is that she was in 13 musicals, 11 spring plays and two one-acts.

 

Alyssa Klaudt

Special Education;

Coaching assignment: Head varsity girls’ tennis

Alyssa Klaudt will long remember where her husband, Andrew, proposed marriage to her.

The memorable occasion happened in London, where the 2015 Sioux Falls Washington High School graduate responded with an immediate “Yes!”

It was the open courses she took at Washington and helping in special ed rooms that led her to this career. As for joining the BVSD staff, Klaudt said, “I love the community and many of my past college friends work here.”

She said her youth makes her “relatable” to the kids and lets her students lead.

The Klaudt’s have two dogs, and her list of hobbies are tennis, disc golf, and dog walks.

 

Sultan Lewis

Eighth grade science

With both of his parents being career educators, Sultan Lewis said teaching literally runs through the Arnold, Neb., native’s veins.

After graduating from Arnold High School in 2016, Lewis went to Mount Marty University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2020. His first teaching assignment was for the Bridgewater-Emery School District, where he taught science for grades 6-9.

His desire to join BVSD’s classroom staff was based on the great things he’d been told about the district.

In his classroom, Lewis said students should enjoy his hands-on approach.

“I love working with my hands and tying what is taught to real life,” he said.

He and his wife, Courtney, are expecting a baby in November, and he is a step-father to Bryce. His leisure interests lie in the outdoors.

“I am also an avid golfer and played four years at the college level,” he said.

 

Jon Schouten

Computers; Coaching

assignment: Freshmen boys’ basketball

Jon Schouten is following in his father’s footsteps.

“My father was an educator and coach for over 30 years,” he shares. “Coaching is a passion of mine and teaching allows me opportunities to work with youth and impact them in a positive way.”

Schouten, who graduated in 2007 from James Valley Christian in Huron, went on to Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa, where in 2012 he received a B.A. in elementary education.

His prior assignments – all in Huron – include three years teaching sixth-grade math and social studies (2012-15) and seven years (2015-22) at Buchanan K-1 Center as a K-1 physical education teacher.

Schouten and his wife, Hannah, who is a social worker, have been married for 12 years. They have three children, Kobe, 7, Theo, 5, and Joey, 4. The family had a desire to move to the Sioux Falls area to be closer to family.

“BV is a wonderful school district and we are excited to be part of the community,” he said.

 

Janae Sturma

Special education

Janae Sturm chose a career in education because of her love for working with kids, especially those with special needs.

“I wanted to advocate for those who may need a little help advocating for themselves while emphasizing inclusion,” said the Aberdeen native.

Her path to the BVSD was based on the wonderful things she’s heard about the district.

“The pride they have in their school system is unmatched,” said Sturma, whose previous assignments have been with the Harrisburg and Sioux Falls school districts before returning to college for her teaching certificate. She most recently taught at Lifescape and Teachwell Solutions. “They (BVSD) value the safety, respect and learning of students, treatment of staff, and they offer an abundance of support for the student population. The positive energy within the system, notably the Middle School, is contagious and exciting to be part of.”

Sturma is a graduate of Roncalli High School. She possesses a Bachelor of Science in psychology from SDSU and a Master of Arts in special education K-12 multi-categorical from USD.

Sturma says she sings “a lot”, so it should come as no surprise that she lists “singing, playing live music”, traveling and spending time with friends and family among her hobbies.

“I lead worship for the Table Ministry out of Shenanigans in Sioux Falls,” she said. “In. the summer months you’ll find me playing gigs on different patios around Sioux Falls.”

She and her significant other, Clint Wilson, have three dogs, Murphy, Finley and Quinn.

 

BV HIGH SCHOOL

 

Ben Alberts

Physical education; Coaching assignments: Middle school football,

7th grade boys’ basketball

Ben Alberts’s mother inspired him to become a teacher, and his student-teaching experience at Brandon Valley last year inspired him to seek a full-time position here.

“Growing up, watching my mom as a teacher played a huge role in wanting to become an educator myself,” says the Morris, Minn., native. “Going into college I wanted to find a profession where I could help others and help the community I was in. I thought by becoming a physical education teacher that I could help students find a passion for health and wellness.”

As he applied for teaching positions, Alberts said it was important to find a district that placed a high priority on students’ academic success as well as teaching good character.

“Brandon Valley fits that standard,” he says.

The 2013 Adrian High School graduate went on to Minnesota State University-Moorhead, graduating in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. He added a Master’s in Education to his resume in 2021 from the University of Sioux Falls. He taught K-8 phy ed last year at Woodbury Leadership Academy.

Alberts believes physical education involves more than teaching skills and playing games. His teaching style includes placing a high value on building student relationships.

“It is important to me that all students feel welcome and comfortable in my class as they try new things,” he said. “My overall goal as a physical education teacher is to introduce students to activities and skills that they can use and find enjoyment in for the rest of their lives.”

In his off-time, Alberts enjoys traveling, archery, hiking, spending time with friends and family, which includes his wife, Jordan, and cheering for the Minnesota Twins.

An avid baseball fan, Alberts has been to 15 Major Baseball League stadiums and has a goal to visit all of them. He also ventured alone to Europe for a month of sight-seeing.

 

Gage Hoffman

English 10 & 11R

It was the teachers that Gage Hoffman had as a student himself at Brandon Valley that inspired him to become a teacher himself.

“They taught me to love learning and I desire to pass that love on,” said Hoffman, a 2017 BVHS alum.

It was also his personal experience with the school district that lured him back.

“Brandon Valley specifically was very good to me. I found my ambitions and passions through the support of my teachers,” he said.

Hoffman describes his teaching style as “energetic.”

“The energy that I can bring to the table will attract students and drive them to learn,” he said.

Hoffman graduated in 2021 with degrees in English and secondary education from Augustana Univerisity. His classroom teaching experience includes a 30-hour practicum at Washington High School, a 15-hour practicum at BVIS, and student teaching at Lincoln Hight School.

Although single, Hoffman has a girlfriend, Destiny, who lives in Las Vegas where she is pursuing a Masters in Fine Arts in creative writing. He lists “building things, cooking, reading and playing video games” among his hobbies. He also has a guinea pig named Beaver.

 

Katie Kennett

Business

Katie Kennett is busy wife (Brad, husband) and mother of two daughters, Rylan, 14, and Lauryn, 11.

“Attending all of my kids’ events takes up most of my time right now,” says Kennett, who is a 1997 Lennox High School graduate. She’s earned dual degrees from the University of Sioux Falls: Bachelor’s in business (2001) and Master’s in education (2022).

This will be Kennett’s first year as a classroom teacher. 

“I was a banker for the past 20 years,” she said. “I want to use my real-world business experience to help kids learn about business. I have a passion for giving back, especially to our youth.”

BVSD’s reputation is what attracted Kennett to seek a teaching position here. 

“I had a really great impression after my first interaction with the BVHS administration,” she said.

Kennett will incorporate real-life examples in her teaching, and hopes this will resonate with the students.

 

Julie Murphy

Special education

Through her high school work experience at a daycare, Julie Murphy realized that teaching was the career path she wanted to take. She also knew she wanted to teach in the school district from which she graduated from in 2013.

Murphy grew up in Brandon but now lives in Valley Springs with her husband, Matt, and daughter, Amelia, 1.

She earned degrees in elementary and special education from the University of South Dakota in 2017, and taught five years at O’Gorman.

Her teaching style involves getting to know each of her students as a person, “so I can help them to be a good student and person,” she said.

In her free time, Murphy enjoys going to the lake with family and fishing together.

 

Robin Tyler

English 11, Honors 11

It was 10 years ago that Robin Tyler student-taught in the English department at Brandon Valley. She loved the experience, so much so that she was elated about the opportunity to come back.

Tyler knows that required English classes “aren’t everyone’s favorite.” But to “ease the pain,” Tyler works hard to make things applicable, relatable and interesting to all students.

Tyler calls Hartford her “hometown.” She graduated from Centerville High School in 2007 and furthered her education at Augustana University, coming away with a BA with majors in English, deaf and secondary education. Her previous teaching experience includes two-year stints as a deaf educator at both Elkton and Harrisburg, and six years at Tri-Valley High School teaching English and American Sign Language.

Her desire to be a teacher stems from her love for helping people problem solve.

“I love having critical thinking conversations, especially with teenagers, and hearing their unique take on things,” she said.

She and her husband, Brad, have two children, Paige, 7, and James, 3. She enjoys reading, crafting and riding horses.

 

Hannah Willman

Guidance counselor (Last names L-R)

As a student at Brandon Valley, Hannah Willman loved school and loved working with kids.

“School counseling felt like my happy place to work in the schools while serving the needs of my students,” says the 2014 Brandon Valley alum.

From BV, Willman ventured to South Dakota State in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in human de-velopment and Masters in school counseling, graduating in 2019. Prior to joining the BVSD staff, she worked as an elementary counselor at Rosa Parks in Sioux Falls.

“I grew up in Brandon, and this community cannot be compared to any other,” she said. “We are the best, and I want to work and raise a family where I grew up.”

She is recently married to Walker Willman and has a stepson, Kaysen. In her free time, she enjoys walking their German shepherd, Stella, traveling and reading.