Our Faculty and Staff

Every child learns differently, and at The de Paul School, we teach for that. Our mission is simple, yet powerful:

We teach students with learning differences how to learn, become independent, and be successful.

We're a collaborative who believe that there's no other way to dignify children more than to help them understand what they are truly capable of. We want each child to know and believe they are capable of academic and life success - as long as they work hard, set goals and aspire to reach them. We give our students the tools and strategies to achieve all they aspire to do.

The following beliefs are the foundation of all that we do:

We believe that learning is living.

We believe in the individuality and dignity of our students.

We believe in the incredible potential of our students.

We believe our role as educators is to empower our students.

We believe that our students need an educational program with specific features in order to reach their potential.

We believe in the duty and demand of our profession.

We believe the support of family is crucial to education.

We believe that each person has the responsibility to build and better our community.

Like the students in our school, huskies are intelligent and eager. They love to play, work well in teams, and enjoy companionship. Huskies are reliable and their friends can count on unsurpassed loyalty. They are known for their endurance and perseverance in harsh conditions that might tempt others to quit. It has even been reported that huskies are easily bored if activities are not sufficiently challenging or engaging.

We are proud to be the huskies! We impress in the classroom, in athletic competition, and as compassionate citizens within the larger community.

Tony Kemper

Head of School

I'm a proud Husky because The de Paul School always places the child in the center of all of our actions, thoughts, decisions, and plans. As a Husky, I am a member of a school community that is dedicated wholeheartedly to our students, their educations, and their growth as successful and fulfilled individuals.

Lisa Stepp

Principal

I am a Husky because I found a place where I can truly make a difference for students with learning differences. At this school, I am able to lead teachers in developing classrooms in which students can reclaim their confidence and self-esteem. I have the opportunity to help foster partnerships between families and the school so that the child truly benefits.

Phil Howell

Dean

I am a Husky because I choose the community of de Paul: its students, families, teachers and staff. There is a bond between us all which is built on respect and teamwork. We truly enjoy each other, while challenging and supporting one another. We are energized by our work, because it focuses us on what's important: helping our students to recognize their worth, their intelligence, and their outstanding potential.

Chris Lockhart

Reception & Student Billing Administrator

I'm a Husky because I wanted to be part of a team that was devoted to their purpose and was striving to be a blessing to others. I absolutely have found this at de Paul!

Cari Thomas

School Secretary

I'm a Husky because whether you are a student or one of the staff, we are all part of a family that helps and encourages one another to succeed. From the beginning - you know that you are cared about when you're at de Paul.

Carlos Mason Wehby

Administrative Assistant

I'm a Husky because I believe education to be invaluable, and there's no one at de Paul whom I can't trust.

Lisa Cobb

Chief Development Officer

I am a Husky because I believe every child should have the tools they need to be successful in school. The students at de Paul are very bright and are motivated to learn. They are fortunate to have teachers who are passionate about helping students realize their full potential. The school environment is uplifting and full of energy. I want the whole community to know about de Paul and that it is changing lives everyday.

Paula Haffner

Development Services Manager

I'm a Husky because every day I see the dedication and compassion of the teachers, and the professionalism and kindness of the staff, and the positive changes in the students.

Erin Whicker

Admissions Director

I'm a Husky because I see the potential in each one of the students I teach. My favorite moments are when I can see in a student's eyes and smile that they finally "get" whatever concept we are working on, and I'll do everything I can think of to bring them to that moment of success. I also value the expertise of my colleagues and the ideas and perspectives they bring to collaboration.

Leslie Johnson

Human Resources & Accounts Payable Administrator

I'm a Husky because years ago I learned de Paul is unwavering in the positive attention they give each student. As a mother, I observed that the staff showed they are focused on the students and always have their best interest in mind. Who wouldn't want to be part of this wonderful school?

Kurt Moser

Director of Technology

I find that year after year, supporting the mission of these teachers and this administration is the best thing that I could be doing with my life. Aiding in their continued success makes this city a better place, and gives hope for a future where these bright and compassionate students become community leaders.

Steve Harris

Chief Financial Officer

I'm a Husky because I have an innate desire to be a part of an organization that gives back and serves the needs of others. What a special opportunity it is to be able to do this and watch children grow into successful and compassionate students.

Tom Fanning

Director of Buildings & Grounds

A Husky is: one who is dedicated to preparing others for all opportunities that may lie ahead. A Husky builds a foundation (confidence and character) within a person to be more successful, as those opportunities present themselves in an ever-changing world.

Sam Fanning

Buildings & Grounds

As a Husky, it's my job to ensure that the environment of learning is always improving, never hindered. It brings me pride to give attention to even the smallest details in preparing a safe and clean place for students to thrive.

Luis Salazar

Buildings & Grounds

For me, it's about making a difference by working hard and pushing myself to take on new challenges. I want to be part of something bigger than me.

Panagiotis Stathopoulos

Librarian

In classical Greece, the comic playwright Epicharmus wrote a line about reciprocity, “one hand washes the other.” In later years, the saying was expanded to, “one hand washes the other and both wash the face.” In other words, cooperation leads to accomplishment. As a proud Husky, I appreciate the ways in which all members of our community - students, faculty and administration - work individually to support one another and collectively accomplish our common goals.

Staci Leamy

Assistant Librarian

Being a parent of a former de Paul student, I've witnessed on a personal level the difference a de Paul School education can make. I am fortunate enough to be part of a community that has enabled my son to be so successful. I strive to do the same for every student at de Paul, and that's why I am a Husky!

Tammy French

Kindergarten Teacher

I choose to be a Husky. I believe in our students and the differences we make with them and their families. I could have left many years ago, but truly feel that I was called to be a teacher here at de Paul. I know I am valued and appreciated, and the students inspire me to be my best so I can help them to be their best.

Karen Hodge

Team 2 Teacher

I am a Husky because I firmly believe that every challenge in our life is truly a gift. My role is to teach each child how to find and use tools to change the challenges of learning into gifts. Each student walking the halls of The de Paul School will grow into adults that impact our world and our communities for the betterment using the gifts that are strengthened and enhanced during their time at The de Paul School.

Kathryn Mehlbauer

Team 2 Teacher

I chose de Paul because I have firsthand experience of the difference de Paul can make in the life of a student struggling in the classroom. I believe my students have the abilities to succeed in the classroom and beyond. I am honored to have the opportunity to give back to the community that has given more than just an excellent education!

Sue Gray

Team 2 Teacher

I am a Husky because there are many things that I enjoy about teaching at de Paul. One of the best things about teaching is learning. I love it when my students comprehend, understand, or grasp something that they did not before, and that I had a part in making that happen. I like the fact that I also learn. Structure at de Paul offers stability without being rigid so that it's stagnant.

Jane Nuckols

Team 3 Teacher

I am a husky because de Paul gives me the chance to nurture, guide, empower and strengthen our students. Our students not only learn what success feels like but also that success comes in many forms, through many strategies, and to those who believe. As huskies, we believe!

Julie Cooper

Team 3 Teacher

To me, being a Husky represents community, compassion and courage. I’m able to help my students (and their families) build the emotional, academic and life skills they need to be successful. I’m lucky to be immersed in an environment where I’m challenged and supported every day – I love being a Husky!

Alice Adams

Team 4 Teacher

I remain a Husky because every child deserves to believe they are smart and that they can, and will, learn. Also, I believe the world benefits from people who "see" and learn differently.

Barbara Brezosky

Team 4 Teacher

Our students are first and foremost the reason for every decision that is made. From our top-notch curriculum to the dismissal routine, it's all about teaching our kids how to learn, how to be independent, and how to be successful. It happens here!

Kayla Hall

Team 4 Teacher

I am a Husky because I was a Husky and I know firsthand the difference the de Paul school can make in a student’s life. I believe that every student has what he or she needs in order to succeed but de Paul helps them reach their potential in a way that is unique to that student. I am honored that I have been given a chance to give back to a school that was way more than an academic education to me.

Denise Jett

Team 5 Teacher

I'm a Husky because de Paul not only saves students and their families, it also saves teachers. All the dissatisfaction I experienced elsewhere doesn't exist at de Paul. The classes are smaller; I know every day that I make a difference for my students because I really know them and their needs. I'm supported by my fellow teachers, administration, and parents. "The de Paul Difference" happens each day because each member of our community is truly a family member, and each person is deeply committed to the other. Working at de Paul is like working with my family.

Sandra Boeschel

Team 5 Teacher

I've been a proud Husky for many years. I enjoy the privilege of coming to school each day and spending time with my students. I like their spirit, their creativity, and their willingness to learn. That's why I am Husky.

Emily Clark

Team 5 Teacher

I am a Husky because I know that my students are ready and excited for a new challenge every day. Their learning differences are not a challenge for them at dePaul, especially when they have daily successes. I am grateful to be a part of a community with teachers and administrators that work together as one to make dePaul the best school possible and ensure student success. That is why I am a Husky.

Laura Archibald

Team 6 Teacher

I've chosen to be a Husky because of the vision and mission to recognize and teach to individual learning styles and differences. It is an honor to serve our students alongside such a knowledgeable, collaborative, and dedicated group of professionals.

Jordan Lewis

Team 6 Teacher

I am a Husky because at this school I have the opportunity to help students with learning differences gain confidence and succeed in their education. I have the chance to make a positive impact on the lives of the students. I also get to be part of a team and community that works towards something much greater than ourselves.

Karen Novak

Team 6 & 7 Teacher

I am a Husky because I know that at the end of the day, I have done something to make a difference in the life of a child. Like Huskies, teachers and administration work together as a team to help pull the weight of students' struggles and help them to succeed in reaching their goals.

Rebekah Agee

Team 7 Teacher

I choose to be a husky because I am able to wake up every morning knowing that I will have the chance to encourage, inspire, and make a difference. It is such a rare, yet rewarding experience to be able to watch students reach their full potential while at the same time witness teachers and administrators support and motivate one another to be the best they can be. It is truly an honor to work with these students and I am privileged to call myself a husky!

Kevin Sparks

Team 7 Teacher

Huskies are a breed known for their tenacious spirit. They accomplish tasks with determination despite the elements and whatever physical and mental obstacles are in their way. I see this same determination in the students I teach. I'm humbled to teach such resilient learners and proud to call myself a de Paul Husky.

Jennifer McGaha

Team 7 Teacher

I’ve chosen to be a Husky because of their unique approach to educating students with different learning styles. The mission to help make these students successful is something I look forward to every day. It is inspiring to know that we are making a lasting impact on these students’ lives.

Mary Balthaser

Team 8 Teacher

I'm a Husky because I believe in my students' ability to succeed inside and outside of the classroom. I also enjoy finding new and exciting ways to incorporate technology into my lessons.

Jodi Hocklander

Team 8 Teacher

I'm a Husky because I enjoy working with bright, intelligent students who thrive in this environment. I also enjoy working with other faculty members who challenge me to continue to grow as a teacher. I have found more support from faculty, administrators, and families at de Paul than the previous schools where I taught.

Laura Shea

Team 8 Teacher

I'm a Husky because I enjoy the students I work with and because I like the challenge of teaching at a private independent school. I enjoy teaching at a school in which everyone is working to achieve a common goal--helping students learn what success feels like.

Emily Meranda

Arts & Humanities Instructor

I chose de Paul because I want to help students discover an identity as an artist in their Husky community. Either in music, theater, or visual art, I hope each de Paul student will find what their passion is and use it to celebrate and express what is unique and special about them.

Brandon Wilson

Physical Education Instructor

I'm a Husky because I believe in our school's mission to help students become independent and successful. I truly value my opportunity to unlock the confidence and character of each and every student through athletics. The importance of lifetime physical fitness can never be underestimated and never will, as long as I'm a Husky!

Bolt

I'm de Paul's Official Mascot!

Trustees

The Board of Trustees is the guardian of The de Paul School's mission. Our Board ensures that our mission is relevant and vital to the community we serve. While our Board is certainly interested in the day-to-day successes of our students, teachers, and programs, its primary focus is on the longer-term and strategic. Our Board is an incredibly active, dedicated, and personally invested trusteeship - we are grateful to our trustees for their service!

For any questions about or for The de Paul School Board, please contact de Paul Information.

*The de Paul School does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual identity or orientation, national origin, or disability in the administration of its policies, procedures, and programs.

Accreditations

A 50-Year Legacy of Expertise in Instructing Students Who Learn Differently