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Manawa schools welcome new teachers

As the school year gets underway, Manawa schools welcome a number of new teachers within the district.

New to the elementary school are; Wendy Baranczyk, music; Amy Bohman, reading teacher/ literacy coach/ Title I coordinator; Katie Malczewski, kindergarten; Cortney Machmueller, kindergarten; Jen Rosin, 3rd grade; Stephanie Wachuta, 4th grade; Amy Busse, now full time 4th grade; and Meria Wright, 6th grade.

“This will be my first full-time position,” said Wachuta. “I am most looking forward to our math curriculum in fourth grade. I know that the topics will challenge students, but also that they will be able to enjoy it.”

Wachuta looks forward to book club as well.

“I always enjoy the great discussions that come out of having these in the classroom,” she said.

Tammy Sjoberg, elementary school principal, is excited about the school year as well.

“I believe the entire staff is excited about the new staff who have joined us for this school year,” said Sjoberg. “With the new teachers and paraprofessionals working together with our seasoned staff, we have an extremely positive approach to the school year. The enthusiasm is great for students and great for student learning outcomes.”

New teachers at the high school include: David Bessette, special education; Megan Driebel, school counselor; Andrea Peterson, math; Mindi Wagner, business education; Emily Neuberger, vocal music; Molly Seuhs, instrumental music; Tamara Hoffmann Kuske, special education; Tina Auman, Jana Schabow and Jessica Nelson, special education para-professionals. 

Bessette is excited about his new career. 

“After working 20 years in the labor industry, in 2009 I decided to pursue my teaching license,” he said. 

Finishing in 2014, Bessette now holds four teaching licenses – three in special education and one in general education ages 6-12/13. 

“While I pursued my education I had the benefit of being able to work as a paraprofessional and a special education teacher,” said Bessette. “I was able to touch the lives of many students with special needs and work with some amazing teachers along the way. My hope and goal is to assist all my students and any other students that I have the opportunity to work with achieve their goals to be college and career ready.”

“While Manawa quests forward to close the gap with all students, I plan to be a vital part in that process,” he said. “From what I have seen thus far, Manawa has an incredible staff that is friendly and encouraging. I am happy to be a part of an exceptional staff that will help me further grow as an educator.”

“Manawa Junior/Senior High is off and running with a fresh set of new faces in the district,” said Dan Wolfgram, junior/senior high principal. “The enthusiasm and positive attitude has been infectious. The new instructors are coming to us from all over the state with the hope of being positive influential instructors in the lives of the students. It has been very exciting to watch the teachers engage with the student body.”

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