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L'Anse
Jr./Sr. High School Faculty |
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KURT ANDERSON
(906) 524-6000 ext 359
kuanders@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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Mr. Anderson attended Northern Michigan University where he received his degree in Elementary Education with a Double Minor of Science and Social Studies. He completed his student teaching in Park City, Montana before graduating from college in December of 2008. The 2009-2010 school year was his first as a Purple Hornet. The classes he teaches at L'Anse are 7th and 8th grade Life Science. In the spring he also helps coach the Jr. High track team. |
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LAURA AUGUSTINE
(906) 524-6000 ext 357
laaugusti@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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Hello. My name is Laura Augustine and I currently teach 7th and 8th grade English. I am originally from Iron River and graduated from NMU with a Bachelor's degree in Music Education. My highly qualified status includes music K-12, English (secondary) 7-12 and science (7 and 8). I spent ten years teaching part time at Arvon Township School in Skanee. Other courses I have taught at L'Anse include 8th grade science, 8th grade careers, 7th grade literature, and 7th and 8th study skills. I currently live in Aura with my husband. I enjoy reading, all outdoor activities and traveling. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. |
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HENRY AUGUSTINE
(906) 524-6122 Ext. 372
heaugusti@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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Mr. Hank Augustine graduated from Northern Michigan University in 1985 and started working at L'Anse Area School the same year. He received his Masters degree in Educational Administration from NMU in 1992. Since being hired at L'Anse Mr. Augustine has taught 7th, 8th and 9th grade Science classes, General Science, Earth Science, Physical Science, Biology, Conservation, Anatomy & Physiology and Advanced Placement Environmental Science. He has also taught Health, Psychology, Sociology and Social Studies. Currently Mr. Augustine teaches 9th grade Science, Anatomy & Physiology and Conservation. Over the years Mr. Augustine has coached 7th & 8th grade Basketball, Junior Varsity and Varsity Football and was head boys Track Coach. Mr. Augustine resides in Aura with his wife and two children. |
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BRENDA BALLOR
(906) 524-6122 Ext. 313
brballor@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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I have been a teacher at L’Anse Area Schools for 32 years. I have a Masters in Secondary Education, and I am Vocationally Certified. This year I am teaching
Physical Education in grades 6-12. |
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HOLLY BELANGER
(906) 524-6122 Ext. 361
hobelang@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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CLICK HERE Click here to view teacher Web site.
Hola! my name is Holly Belanger and this is my fourth year teaching Spanish for L'Anse Area Schools. I also teach Global Cultures and am certified to teach French. This is my eleventh year teaching. I taught French and Spanish at Berkley High School in Berkley, Michigan for seven years before moving to the U.P. I am originally from Sterling Heights, a suburb of Detroit. I graduated from CMU with a B.S. and Wayne State University with a master's degree in Eduational Leadership. I enjoy traveling, shopping, fishing, going to camp, eating at ethnic restaurants, snowshoeing, reading, going to the beach and attending church. I have studied in Canada, Mexico and Spain. I have also visited Switzerland and France. I have been married for two years and live in L'Anse. |
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ANNA BRADFISH
(906) 524-6000 (Ext. 321)
akbradfish@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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Hello, my name is Anna Bradfish and I work in both the Elementary and Jr/Sr High School. I was hired in January of 2010 to teach alternative English and to work within general education English classes as well. I graduated from Baraga High School in 2003 and went on to receive my B.S. in Social Sciences from MTU with a teaching certificate and a Biology minor. After my undergraduate work, I went on to NMU for an endorsement in Special Eduation Learning Disabilities.
Outside of the classroom, I can often be found playing a whole lot of volleyball and softball. My husband and I spend much of our free-time in the great outdoors: snowshoeing, canoeing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and agate hunting.
If you ever feel the need to contact me, please do not hesitate to do so. The easiest way to reach me is by email at akbradfish@laschools.k12.mi.us. I am never too busy to connect with you.
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BETTY CANGEMI
(906) 524-6122 (1st Hour Ext. 360; 7th Hour Ext. 374)
becangemi@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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I myself am a graduate of L'Anse High School. I attended Michigan Technological University and graduated from there with a bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences. I obtained employment with a major corporation where I stayed for five years. The corporate world was not my calling and I returned to MTU and obtained my secondary teaching certification. I have been employed by L'Anse Area Schools since the fall of 1999. I teach AP Biology, Biology and Physiology/Anatomy. I love teaching these classes and really enjoy the students I have every year. It's great to get a student in Biology of sophomore year and watch their knowledge grow each year as they progress through Life Science courses I teach. Outside of school my biggest past time (other than my family) is riding and showing my horses. I am also currently working on my master's degree in Biological Sciences from Michigan Tech. |
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LISA CICHOSZ
(906) 524-6000 ext 355
licichos@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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Lisa Cichosz was born and raised in L'Anse, Michigan. She graduated in 1997 before moving downstate to obtain her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Oakland University. She has a math major with a language arts minor. She is currently on her 5th year of teaching at L'Anse. In her free time, she enjoys reading, sports, and spending time with her husband, Chad and her children Lola and Kale.
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CHRISTINE COLLINS
(906) 524-6213
ccollins@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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Mrs. Collins is the School and Public Library Director. Mrs. Collins is a lifelong resident of L'Anse having attended Sacred Heart School and L'Anse Area School, graduating in 1970. Her teaching career began in 1988 at Sacred Heart School, and she began teaching at L'Anse Area Schools in 1995. Until the 2008 school year, she taught classes in the Middle and High School. she has always had a love of reading and been a patron of the Public Library. When the opportunity presented itself to become the Library Director, she did not hesitate to apply for the position. She was also a founding member of the Friends of the Library. Her hobbies include lighthouse preservation, reading, cross-country skiing, quilting, spending time at camp, and watching the Green Bay Packer football games with her husband on Sunday afternoons. She has two grown married sons. Jim and Chris, and five grandchildren.
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HEATHER GRENTZ
(906) 524-6000 Ext. 302
hegrentz@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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My name is Heather Grentz and I am the Jr/Sr High School Counselor. I graduated from Northern Michigan University in the Spring of 2000 with a degree in elementary education. I started working in the District that fall teaching 5th grade. In 2004 I received my Masters from NMU in K-12 guidance counseling. After 7 years in the District teaching 5th grade I made the move to the Guidance Office. The counseling office can be used for individual student planning, responsive services, guidance curriculum, and system support. |
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JOYCE HOSKINS
(906) 524-6122 Ext. 324
johoskins@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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Born and raised in the Upper Peninsula, I currently live with my husband on a horse farm in Pelkie. I earned my Associate in Arts degree at Suomi College (Finlandia University)and then I went on to receive my Bachelors degree from Northern Michigan University. English is my major and Biology is my minor, which is not an ordinary combination, but gives me an appreciation for a broad variety of topics. My teaching career at L'Anse High has focused mainly on English-British literature, American literature, writing and speech. However, over the years I have also taught science, health and language arts. During the summer months I enjoy training and showing our quarter horses, and spending time with our grandchildren. |
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JOHN JACOBSON
(906) 524-6122 ext. 378
jojacobso@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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Hello, my name is John Jacobson and I have been teaching in L'Anse for 11 years. I work with middle and high school students in Special Education and I also teach Social Psyhcology. I graduated from L'Anse High School, and I feel very fortunate to be working and living in L'Anse. I have a 7 year old son, Paul, who attends the C.J. Sullivan Elementary School, and I get to check up on him every day if I choose. I have also been involved with coaching football for several years, and I am currently coaching the Junior High football team. I have also coached track and have done afterschool tutoring. During the past few summers I have also coached minor league baseball. During my free time, which I currently have little of, I like to camp, fish, take little trips, and go to the beach. I am also a big Packer fan and look forward to watching them every week. |
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REBECCA KEYES
(906) 524-6122 Ext. 323
akeyes@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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CLICK HERE to view teacher Web Site.
I grew up in Baraga. In 2004, I graduated from the University of Michigan with a B.A. in English. While there, I studied abroad in Sweden for one year. In the spring of 2007, I received my secondary teaching certificate from Northern Michigan University after having completed part of my student teaching in New Zealand. When I'm not teaching I enjoy kayaking, hiking, writing, and reading. I also LOVE to travel! I've visited places such as: Italy, Spain, England, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Estonia, and Russia. I can't wait to see other parts of the world! |
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LINDA LOHMANN
(906) 524-6122 ext. 304
lslohman@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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Linda Lohmann attended The School Of The Museum Of Fine Arts-Boston in affiliation with Tufts University for her Bachelors Degree.
Her K-12 ART-Teaching Certification is from The School Of The Art Institute Of Chicago. Ms. Lohmann lives in Covington with her husband and daughter. |
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MARTIN MELEEN
(906) 524-6122 Ext. 326
mameleen@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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Mr. Meleen has earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education at Ferris State University and a Master of Arts degree in Educational Administration and Supervision at Northern Michigan University.
He teaches Business Applications, Business and Technology Basics, Accounting I & II, and Independent Computer. He is the L’Anse Vocational Education Coordinator and Technology Coordinator. His teaching career began in 1987 at L’Anse High School.
His hobbies include hunting, fishing and spending time at camp. He lives in Aura and is married with one son and daughter. |
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PAUL MOORE
(906) 524-5390 Ext. 379
pamoore@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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Hi, I am Paul Moore. I have been teaching in L'Anse for 9 years. I currently teach high school Algebra, Geometry, and Algebra II in the Resource Room. I also teach Study Skills (Middle and High) and work with students on Job Exploration (post-secondary visions). I also serve as the District's Special Education Coordinator, CIMS II Coordinator, MI-Access Testing Coordinator, Special Testing Coordinator for MEAP and ACT/MME, and am a co-advisor for Youth In Government. I am also a member of the Michigan Transition Services Association and Michigan Career Placement Association. I can be found in room 316 or can be reached at school during school hours at extension 379. My e-mail at school is listed above. Please drop me a line through on e-mail, if I can be of assistance to you or you have a question for me.
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MARC NUTINI
(906) 524-6122 Ext. 401
manutini@lashcools.k12.mi.us |
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Graduated NMU in 2005 and I am in my first year of teaching. I teach middle and high school wood shop and high school Gym. I also did my student teaching at L'Anse in the spring of 2005. I enjoy being active and also enjoy the outdoors. I really enjoy the subject areas in which I teach. Lastly, I plan on starting my masters next year. |
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AMANDA RINKINEN
524-6122 ext. 320
amrinkin@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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CLICK HERE to view teacher Web Site.
I currently teach 8th grade Publications and 10th grade American Literature. The past two years I have taught 9th grade English and I have also worked as the Junior High At-Risk Aide. This is my second year as the Junior Class Advisor and my first year as the Prom Advisor. I am also on the School Improvement Team. I have a B.S. from NMU in English with a Political Science minor and a teaching certificate for grades 6-12.
When I have free time, I spend it with my husband, Jason, and our son, Mathew. We enjoy camping and generally being outdoors-even in the winter! I also enjoy reading, cooking, and ice skating. I am a LHS graduate of 2004 which allows me to understand my students a bit better. my prep hour is from 12:30 - 1:25 if you need to contact me. |
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JENNIFER RUBIN
(906) 524-6122 Ext. 331
jmrubin@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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Jennifer Rubin is a Middle and High School Computer and Technology Instructor. She teaches 7th grade computers, 8th grade Computers, and 9th grade Computer Applications. She is originally from the Iron Mountain area and graduated from Michigan Tech University. Upon graduating, she worked in the business field for a few years in various capacities including Marketing, Human Resources, Sales, and Entrepreneurship. She is now living in the Houghton area with her husband and son Braiden. In her free time she enjoys water skiing, biking, and snow skiing. She loves living in the U.P. and being active outdoors. |
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LAURA SCHNEIDER
(906) 524-6122 Ext. 308 (Nurse Ext. 202)
laschneid@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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I have been teaching in L'Anse for the past 18 years. I received my B.S. degree in Biology and secondary education certificate from Gannon University in Erie, PA in 1981, my Associate Degree in Nursing from Gogebic Community College in 1987 and my M.S. in Secondary Education from Northern Michigan University in 2002. In 2010, I obtained the additional certification to teach Secondary Health. This year I will again be teaching 9th grade Health and the Health Occupations-Nurse Aide courses. I am also the Health Occupation Students of America (H.O.S.A.) advisor and serve all district students as the School Nurse. In past years I have also taught 8th grade Science and 7th grade Health. My husband and I reside in Covington. We have three grown chldren who graduated from L'Anse and one grandchild. I enjoy singing in the church choir, reading, gardening, watching Steelers' football, outdoor activities and of course spending time with family and friends. |
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MELISSA SCROGGS
(906) 524-6122 Ext. 363 & Ext. 365
mescroggs@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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My name is Melissa Scroggs and I currently teach students in grades 3-12. I have been teaching Special Education for 17 years. My experience is in cognitive impairments and learning disabilities. I lived in Texas for 22 years prior to moving to the UP. I have two boys who attend the L'Anse Area Schools. I enjoy cooking, reading and outdoor activities. |
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RANDY SIMONSEN
(906) 524-6000 ext 358
rasimonse@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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Hello and welcome! This year I'm teaching World History 11 and American History 8. Visit mrsimonsen.net for more information.
Here's a little bit about my background: I have a Bachelor's degree (1977) from Northern Michigan University, and I have 50.5 post-graduate credit hours from NMU, Central Michigan University, Western Michigan University, and Eastern Michigan University. I'm certified in the State of Michigan in Social Studies grades 6-12 and Music Education grades K-12. Courses I've taught over my career are Band, grades 5-12; Choir, grades 9-12; Music Appreciation, grades 9-12; General Music, grades K-6; Government and Economics, grade 10; World History, grade 11; World Geography, grades 6 and 7; Current Events/Careers, grade 8; and Michigan History, Civics, and English, grade 7.
In addition to my teaching responsibilities, I was the L'Anse Coordinator for Destination Imagination from 2003-2007, and coached DI (and OM) teams for many years. When I was teaching band, I served at various times as Secretary, Vice President, and President for District 14 of the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association. I'm also active in the L'Anse Athletic Boosters, currently serving as Treasurer, and was the advisor to the L'Anse Student Council from 1992-2005.
My wife, Betty, and I have lived in L'Anse for the past 25 years. We have been blessed with five children - All L'Anse grads and seven grandchildren. I've been teaching in the public schools of Michigan and Wisconsin since 1977, and I am currently enjoying my 26th year with the L'Anse Area Schools. |
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MARK SMITH
(906) 524-6122 Ext. 370
masmith@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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CLICK HERE
to view teacher Web Site.
Mr. Smith is originally from Ironwood, where he graduated from Luther L. Wright School in 1983. He received his Bachelors degree in Mathematics from Michigan Tech in 1988 and his Masters degree in Secondary Education from Northern Michigan in 1994. He was hired as a High School Math and Physics teacher in 1989 and currently teaches Honors Algebra 1, Algebra 1,Honors Algebra 2, Algebra 2, and FST. He lives in L'Anse on the Falls River. Hobbies include steelhead fishing and running.
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FRANK TADDEUCCI
(906) 524-6122 Ext. 360
frtaddeuc@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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This is my 31st year of teaching (16 years in L’Anse). Teaches 10th and 12th grade Government and Economics and 7th grade Civics. Interests - Hunting and motorcycling. |
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SUSAN TOLLEFSON
(906) 524-6122 Ext. 373
sutollefs@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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Hi, I am Mrs.Tollefson. I grew up in Covington and graduated from L'Anse High School. I earned a Bachelors Degree in Metallurgical Engineering and secondary math and science teaching certification from Michigan Technological University in 1994. I attended graduate school at Northern Michigan University in 1999 and received a Masters Degree in Educational Administration in 1999. I am also the advisor for our school's chapter of National Honor Society and serve on the School Improvement Team. I live in L'Anse with my husband and two daughters.
My hobbies include camping, hiking, downhill skiing and fishing. If you have any questions, please call or email me. |
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AARON VANDUSEN
(906) 524-6000 ext 310
aavandus@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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This will be my first year teaching at L'Anse. I graduated from Central Michigan University May 2005 with a Bachelor of Music Education. My primary instrument is the trumpet, but I do play all instruments. I will be teaching K-5 Elementary Music and 5th Grade Band, also the Middle School Bands and the High School Band. I am also the director of the Marching Band and the Pep Band for the football and basketball games. I come from downstate in a city called Pinconning and I do have family in Marquette as well. I am looking forward to a great first year at L'Anse. If you have any questions, please call or e-mail me. |
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DENISE WILDER
(906) 524-6000 ext 376
dewilder@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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CLICK HERE to view teacher Web Site.
Hi, I am Denise Wilder. This is my 11th year at L'Anse Area Schools. I received a B.S. in Mathematics from Alma College in 1985 and an M.A. in Curriculum & Instruction from Andrews University in 1989. I have previously taught M.S. and H.S. Mathematics in South Haven, Lawton & Bangor, Michigan. I also worked as a Curriculum Specialist for Southwestern Michigan Community College. I am married and have 3 children. I am proud to be a member of the L'Anse staff and community. My hobbies include volleyball and softball. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you (students, parents or guardians) have questions regarding the classes I am currently teaching. 2010-2011 classes include: Algebra I & II, Practical Math and Math Lab.
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JENNIFER WILSON
(905) 524-6122 Ext. 369
jewilson@laschools.k12.mi.us |
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CLICK HERE Click here to view teacher Web site.
I grew up in Baraga and graduated from Baraga High School in 2004. I then went to the University of Michigan where I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education. I am certified to teach Social Studies, History, and Psychology. I was hired by L'Anse Area Schools in the fall of 2008 and am currently in my third year with the school district. This year I am teaching Civics & Economics, Michigan History, Social Psychology and Teaming Leadership. I have also been the Junior Varsity Volleyball Coach for the past two seasons and help run the Middle School Volleyball program in the spring. When I'm not working on stuff for school I am playing volleyball, watching football, doing something outdoors, or reading. Parents and students can feel free to contact me anytime via e-mail or by calling me at the school.
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