ST. JAMES STAFF
ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
Andy Tylicki
President | St. Teresa
Wife Missy, Kids Samuel, Sophia and Isabella
"I have competed well, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" - 2 Timothy: 7
Education
Emporia State University: BSE Education
Emporia State University: Masters School Counseling; Benedictine College: Masters School Leadership
Debbie Nearmyer
Director of Faith Formation | St. Gianna Molla
My husband and I have 5 children, a son in law and daughter in law and 2 grandchildren. They are the joy in our days! I love to snow ski, play driveway basketball, pick up soccer games, shop & travel. I love all things Italian and sharing the work of the Lord in my life with others. I have been a part of the SJA community for 15 years and consider it one of the great blessings in my life.
"Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Luke 1:38
Education
University of Kansas: Bachelor of Science Social Welfare
Shane Rapp
Principal | St. Gregory
"In the tender compassion of our God, the dawn from on high shall break upon us to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death and to guide our feet into the way of peace." Luke 1:78-79
Education
Benedictine College: English & Secondary Education
Benedictine College: Master's of Arts in School Leadership; Baker University: Doctorate in Educational Leadership
Anna Bomhoff
Administrative Assistant Athletics and Activities | St. Peter | Assistant Girls/Boys Tennis Coach
My husband Greg and I are truly blessed to be part of such a great community. We have two boys, Andrew 14 and Brett 11. I have a background in science and hope to maybe teach a class at SJA someday.
2 Timothy 4:7 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
Education
Washburn University: Biology
University of Kansas Medical Center: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Jessica Rolston
Assistant Principal of Curriculum & Instruction | Catherine
Jessica Rolston is a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Shawnee, KS where she resides with her husband, Kevin and daughters, Lily and Violet. She grew up in Kansas City, Kansas and attended Christ The King School and Bishop Ward High School. She graduated from Emporia State University with a Bachelor of Science in Education degree in 2000 and Master of Science degree in Educational Administration in 2008. From 2000-2016, she worked in the De Soto School District as a teacher and administrator. In 2016, the Holy Spirit led her to St. James where she continued her career in administration as the assistant principal of curriculum and instruction.
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
Education
Emporia State University: Master of Science in Education
Emporia State University: Educational Administration
Susan Ludwikoski
Administrative Assistant to the President | St. Gianna Molla | Mentor/Transfer Program and Freshman Connex
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:9
Education
Kansas State University: Social Science/Criminal Justice
ADVANCEMENT DEPARTMENT
Amber Hellwig
Director of Admissions | St. John Paul II | Assistant Swim Coach
Married to husband Kelby and have two boys Kody and Grayson. Our family loves to be active, be outdoors and spend time together.
"Do all things with great love!" - St. Teresa
Education
University of Central Missouri: Bachelor of Science
Kim Feist
Alumni Coordinator | St. Gianna Molla
Kim is married to fellow alum Derek; both graduated in the SJA Class of 2010. They have sons Levi, Nolan, and Rocco, and are parishioners at Sacred Heart in Shawnee. Their family is grateful to stay connected to the SJA Community through alumni activities, and they enjoy cheering on the Thunder and K-State!
"The problem with our world is that we draw the circle of our family too small." - Mother Teresa
Education
Kansas State University: Social Work
Jenn Godar
Director of Advancement | Peter
I joined the staff in August 2019. With more than 20 years of fundraising experience, I am thrilled to bring this knowledge to St. James and to be a part of the Advancement Team. My husband Shawn and I reside in Shawnee with our two kids, Jack and Madelyn. Both are students at Sacred Heart.
“Be watchful, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong.” (1 Corinthians 16:13)
"Some days you're the windshield. Other days, you're the bug."
Education
University of Kansas: Bachelor of Science - Journalism
Sam Rockford
Director of Innovation | Gregory
2017 Kansas Finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching; married with three kids; parishioner at Good Shepherd in Shawnee; enjoys lawn care, gardening, reading, coaching youth sports, and plays heavy rock guitar in a semi-professional cover band.
Romans 5:1-5
Education
University of Kansas: BSE Secondary Math and English
University of Kansas: MA in Teaching and Leadership
Caroline Schippers
Data Manager | St. Teresa
Married to Dale with three children, Grace, Stratton and Bridget. Members of Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe.
"For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known." - 1 Corinthians 13:12
Education
Wichita State University: Math & Economics
Susan Ludwikoski
Administrative Assistant to the President | St. Gianna Molla | Mentor/Transfer Program and Freshman Connex
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:9
Education
Kansas State University: Social Science/Criminal Justice
Tom Radke
Assistant Athletics and Admissions Director | Dean of John Paul II | Head Football Coach, Assistant Track Coach, Weight Room Coordinator
I have worked in education for 21 years in Iowa, Missouri and Kansas. Making stops at Ames High, St. Pius X (MO), St. Thomas Aquinas and Piper High School. I have been blessed to work at St. James Academy for the last 9 years serving as a social studies teacher and head football. I have been married 20 years to my wife Laura. We have 3 daughters (Grace, Kendal, and Emma). We are active members of the Ascension parish.
Isiah 6:8
Education
Iowa State University: B.S. in History
Graceland University: Masters in Education
SUPPORT STAFF
Anna Bomhoff
Administrative Assistant Athletics and Activities | St. Peter | Assistant Girls/Boys Tennis Coach
My husband Greg and I are truly blessed to be part of such a great community. We have two boys, Andrew 14 and Brett 11. I have a background in science and hope to maybe teach a class at SJA someday.
2 Timothy 4:7 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
Education
Washburn University: Biology
University of Kansas Medical Center: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Cathy McNally
Registrar and Information Systems Manager | Padre Pio
Married to my best friend. Blessed to be a mother to three great kids, and soon to be two awesome sons-in-laws.
"Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person. A beautiful thing!" - St. Teresa of Calcutta
Education
Ottawa University: Business Administration
Susan Ludwikoski
Administrative Assistant to the President | St. Gianna Molla | Mentor/Transfer Program and Freshman Connex
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:9
Education
Kansas State University: Social Science/Criminal Justice
BUSINESS OFFICE
BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY
Tim Wuebker
Personal Finance, Psychology, WWII, Economics, Sociology, and Cold War Instructor | St. Benedict | Philosophy
I seek to teach as well as I can until about age 70 or 75; I also like to write novels, and help people with personal finance questions
The Workers in the Vineyard.
“The kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out at dawn to hire laborers for his vineyard.
After agreeing with them for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard.
Going out about nine o’clock, he saw others standing idle in the marketplace,
and he said to them, ‘You too go into my vineyard, and I will give you what is just.’
So they went off. [And] he went out again around noon, and around three o’clock, and did likewise.
Going out about five o’clock, he found others standing around, and said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’
They answered, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You too go into my vineyard.’
When it was evening the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Summon the laborers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and ending with the first.’
When those who had started about five o’clock came, each received the usual daily wage.
So when the first came, they thought that they would receive more, but each of them also got the usual wage.
And on receiving it they grumbled against the landowner,
saying, ‘These last ones worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us, who bore the day’s burden and the heat.’
He said to one of them in reply, ‘My friend, I am not cheating you.* Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage?
Take what is yours and go. What if I wish to give this last one the same as you?
[Or] am I not free to do as I wish with my own money? Are you envious because I am generous?’
Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.”
Education
Loras College: B.S. in Math, Literature, and Writing
Marquette University: M.A. in Literature
CAMPUS MINISTRY
Debbie Nearmyer
Director of Faith Formation | St. Gianna Molla
My husband and I have 5 children, a son in law and daughter in law and 2 grandchildren. They are the joy in our days! I love to snow ski, play driveway basketball, pick up soccer games, shop & travel. I love all things Italian and sharing the work of the Lord in my life with others. I have been a part of the SJA community for 15 years and consider it one of the great blessings in my life.
"Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Luke 1:38
Education
University of Kansas: Bachelor of Science Social Welfare
COMMUNITY SYSTEM
Katie Walters
Theology Teacher, Director of Community | Catherine | G.R.A.C.E. (Girls Respond Actively to Christ's Example) Women's Formation
Wife to Mr. Chris Walters, who also teaches at SJA, and mother to Ethan, Olivia, Kolbe and Annie.
"Where there is no love, put love, and there you will foster love." - St. John of the Cross
Education
Benedictine College: Master of Arts in Theology and Psychology
Augustine Institute: MA Theology
Matt Joshi
World Studies Teacher | Dean of St. Catherine | Football Coach
Mr. Joshi has coached football and track at SJA since the 2011-2012 school year. In 2012 Mr. Joshi set out to complete his Masters in Education at Rockhurst University and completed it in 2014. In 2016 Mr. Joshi got married to Rachel (Gray, SJA 09 Grad) Joshi. Mr. Joshi enjoys traveling in the summer with his wife, gardening and cooking.
"Let not your hearts be troubled" John 14:1
Education
University of St. Thomas, MN: Political Science and Geography
Rockhurst University: Masters in Education, Emphasis in Social Studies
Angela Charlton
Social Science | Dean of St. Benedict
Angela is married to Kent Charlton and has 4 beautiful children. Micala, Jack, Max, and Sam. Micala has given her parents 4 beautiful grandchildren: Mclaren, George, Thomas, and Caroline. Angela and her family are Holy Trinity parish members, and her son Sam is currently in 7th grade there. Besides teaching American Government, she is the Dean of St. Benedict and loves working and watching students grow in confidence and leadership. Outside of teaching, she loves crafting, sewing, and baking. If not doing these things she is cheering on her boys or grandchildren in their activities.
God Bless America
Education
Kansas State University: Secondary Education
MidAmerica Nazarene University: Educational Technology
Tom Radke
Assistant Athletics and Admissions Director | Dean of John Paul II | Head Football Coach, Assistant Track Coach, Weight Room Coordinator
I have worked in education for 21 years in Iowa, Missouri and Kansas. Making stops at Ames High, St. Pius X (MO), St. Thomas Aquinas and Piper High School. I have been blessed to work at St. James Academy for the last 9 years serving as a social studies teacher and head football. I have been married 20 years to my wife Laura. We have 3 daughters (Grace, Kendal, and Emma). We are active members of the Ascension parish.
Isiah 6:8
Education
Iowa State University: B.S. in History
Graceland University: Masters in Education
Wendy Leon-Ryan
World Language | Dean of St. Padre Pio | Big Sister Little Sister Club
Married to Evan, mom to Ethan and Isabella. I enjoy running, being outdoors and reading. Would love to hold a doctorate degree one day, I'm a bit nerdy 🙂
We have come to know and to believe in the love God has for us. God is love, and whoever remains in love remains in God and God in her. 1 John 4:16
Education
Universidad de Especialidades Espíritu Santo: Business
Emporia State University: Masters Education in Teaching
COUNSELING
Kellie Maguire
Guidance Counselor | Caseload Hi-N | St. Catherine
Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Education
University of Kansas: Psychology and Human Development Family Life
Gallaudet University: Masters Mental Health Counseling
Cathy McNally
Registrar and Information Systems Manager | Padre Pio
Married to my best friend. Blessed to be a mother to three great kids, and soon to be two awesome sons-in-laws.
"Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person. A beautiful thing!" - St. Teresa of Calcutta
Education
Ottawa University: Business Administration
Natalie Muehlberger
Guidance Counselor | Caseload O-Z | Padre Pio
Natalie is a 1996 graduate of Bishop Ward High School. She started her teacher career at her Alma Mater; where she was an English teacher and coach for 11 years. She came to SJA in 2013 as an English teacher. She moved into the counseling department 4 years ago. She has been married to John Muehlberger for 15 years and they have three children, Andy (Courtney) c/o 2013, Jillian and Rose. Andy and Courtney have blessed Natalie and John with their first granddaughter, Kennedy.
Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. Ralph Waldo Emerson
Education
St. Mary College: BA in English and Secondary Education
University of West Alabama: MED in School Counseling
ENGLISH DEPARTMENT
Evan Bradfield
English Teacher | Gregory | Coach, Science Olympiad; Coach, Scholar's Bowl; Sponsor, Vinyl Club
Mr. Bradfield seeks to vibrantly live out his vocation as husband and father. He loves being "Dad" and enjoys working around the house, writing, and cycling. Mr. Bradfield's passion for God, literature, and people intersect perfectly in his job teaching at SJA!
"Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; Unite my heart to fear Your name." Psalms 86:11
Education
Benedictine College: English and Secondary Education, Minor in Theology
FACILITIES
MATH DEPARTMENT
Julie Curnes
Math Teacher | Benedict
Married to Phillip for 23 years. We have five children, ages 10-19.
"When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things." (Mark 6:34)
Education
Miami University, Oxford University, and Ohio University: BS Secondary Math Education
University of Kansas: Curriculum and Instruction
Stan Dohm
Math Teacher; Head Boys Basketball Coach | St. Gianna Molla
Married to Sidni for 18 years, 4 children: Spencer(13), Samuel(12), Sophia(8), Sullivan(6)
It is supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard everyone would do it. The hard is what makes it great!
Certifications
Certified Social Science 7-12; Certified Mathematics 7-12
Education
Newman University: Social Studies Secondary Education
Wichita State University: Sports Management
Justin Snell
Math Teacher | John Paul II | Basketball and Football Coach
Mr. Snell is a proud husband to Kressa, and father to Julius and Adriana. Mr. Snell is a fan of almost all sports and in his spare time enjoys playing basketball and hanging out with the family.
Mark 11:22-24 - “Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. “Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
Education
Newman University: Business Administration
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Sam Bruning
PE Teacher | Mother Teresa | Football Freshmen HC and Ast. DL Coach
SJA Alum (Class of 2013). Currently completing a Masters degree in High Incidence Special Education at the University of Kansas. Rock Chalk!
"Go forward bravely. Fear nothing. Trust in God: all will be well." - St. Joan of Arc
Certifications
Certificate in Adaptive Physical Education
Education
University of Kansas: Health and Physical Education
Currently completing a Masters degree in High Incidence Special Education
SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
Alan Thomas
Science Teacher | St. Gregory | Assistant Cross Country Coach
“Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” - Mother Teresa
Certifications
Google Certified Educator Level 2
Education
Western Colorado University: B.A. Biology
Wichita State University: M.Ed. Curriculum and Instruction
Paige James
Science Teacher | St. Catherine | JV Volleyball Coach, Assistant Track Coach
Married to Aj James and have two daughter Faye and Josey.
"Love endures everything, love is stronger than death, love fears nothing." - St. Faustina
Education
Appalachian State University: BA in Spanish, BS in Chemistry
Anna Larsen
Science Teacher | Benedict
Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may prove what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)
Education
Benedictine College: Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry & Bachelor of Arts Degree in Secondary Education
Nancy Dorsey
History Teacher, Department Head | Gianna Molla | Head Volleyball Coach, Spirit Club Sponsor, Lemon Club Sponsor
I am married to Bryan Dorsey, best man ever. We have 5 kids, Finley, Cooper, Ellen, Fiona and Fletcher and a dog Zoey. They attend Sacred Heart Catholic School. We have a Gaga, my mom, Ellen, who is an enormous part of our family as she lives in our home. Our goal is to work with young people to develop strong, confident, capable human beings who love the LORD and spread his goodness!
"It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog"
Education
University of Kansas: Bachelors in Education
University of Kansas: Masters in Curriculum and Instruction
Sister M. Hedwig Kortte, FSGM
Social Studies | St. John Paul II
I am a member of the religious congregation - The Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George. Originally, I am from Sigel, Illinois; and I have 2 brothers and 2 sisters. For 16 years I have been a part of Catholic Education involving children from the ages of 6 weeks to seniors in high school.
"It is God's will. We must be pleased with what pleases God, and what is His will." - St. Hedwig
Education
Benedictine College: Secondary Education and Social Science
Benedictine College: MASL
Angela Charlton
Social Science | Dean of St. Benedict
Angela is married to Kent Charlton and has 4 beautiful children. Micala, Jack, Max, and Sam. Micala has given her parents 4 beautiful grandchildren: Mclaren, George, Thomas, and Caroline. Angela and her family are Holy Trinity parish members, and her son Sam is currently in 7th grade there. Besides teaching American Government, she is the Dean of St. Benedict and loves working and watching students grow in confidence and leadership. Outside of teaching, she loves crafting, sewing, and baking. If not doing these things she is cheering on her boys or grandchildren in their activities.
God Bless America
Education
Kansas State University: Secondary Education
MidAmerica Nazarene University: Educational Technology
Tim Wuebker
Personal Finance, Psychology, WWII, Economics, Sociology, and Cold War Instructor | St. Benedict | Philosophy
I seek to teach as well as I can until about age 70 or 75; I also like to write novels, and help people with personal finance questions
The Workers in the Vineyard.
“The kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out at dawn to hire laborers for his vineyard.
After agreeing with them for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard.
Going out about nine o’clock, he saw others standing idle in the marketplace,
and he said to them, ‘You too go into my vineyard, and I will give you what is just.’
So they went off. [And] he went out again around noon, and around three o’clock, and did likewise.
Going out about five o’clock, he found others standing around, and said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’
They answered, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You too go into my vineyard.’
When it was evening the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Summon the laborers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and ending with the first.’
When those who had started about five o’clock came, each received the usual daily wage.
So when the first came, they thought that they would receive more, but each of them also got the usual wage.
And on receiving it they grumbled against the landowner,
saying, ‘These last ones worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us, who bore the day’s burden and the heat.’
He said to one of them in reply, ‘My friend, I am not cheating you.* Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage?
Take what is yours and go. What if I wish to give this last one the same as you?
[Or] am I not free to do as I wish with my own money? Are you envious because I am generous?’
Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.”
Education
Loras College: B.S. in Math, Literature, and Writing
Marquette University: M.A. in Literature
Joe Walberg
Director of Speech & Debate, Social Studies Teacher | Mother Teresa
Joe Walberg is a Parent, Teacher, Coach, Mentor, Nerd, Believer, Ultracrepidarian, Cartophile, and head coach of the Speech and Debate team of St. James Academy. He was the 2017 recipient of the SJA Teacher of Excellence award, a 2020 Fellow of the Duc in Altum Catholic Schools Collaborative, and the 2022 District New Coach of the Year for the National Speech and Debate Association. He and his wife Erin are raising two lucky-but-unimpressed children, Leah and Jack.
Isaiah 46:8-10 - Remember this and consider, recall it to mind, you transgressors, remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is no one like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, “My purpose shall stand, and I will fulfill my intention."
Certifications
History Government and Social Studies 6-12, Speech/Theatre 6-12, Business 6-12, Technology Education 6-12
Education
University of Kansas: B.G.S. Political Science
Avila University: Master of Arts in Education: Teaching and Learning
Matt Joshi
World Studies Teacher | Dean of St. Catherine | Football Coach
Mr. Joshi has coached football and track at SJA since the 2011-2012 school year. In 2012 Mr. Joshi set out to complete his Masters in Education at Rockhurst University and completed it in 2014. In 2016 Mr. Joshi got married to Rachel (Gray, SJA 09 Grad) Joshi. Mr. Joshi enjoys traveling in the summer with his wife, gardening and cooking.
"Let not your hearts be troubled" John 14:1
Education
University of St. Thomas, MN: Political Science and Geography
Rockhurst University: Masters in Education, Emphasis in Social Studies
TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Cathy McNally
Registrar and Information Systems Manager | Padre Pio
Married to my best friend. Blessed to be a mother to three great kids, and soon to be two awesome sons-in-laws.
"Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person. A beautiful thing!" - St. Teresa of Calcutta
Education
Ottawa University: Business Administration
THEOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Chris Walters
Theology Teacher | St. Padre Pio
I have a beautiful bride named Katie who works at SJA as a teacher and Director of Community, and we have four incredible kids, Ethan, Olivia, Kolbe and Annelise. Our aspiration as a family is to be disciples of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and to do what we can to make more disciples. Teaching at St. James Academy is my dream job! And I am eternally grateful to God for this opportunity and to do it with such an incredible, faith-filled staff has truly been a blessing.
Education
University of Kansas: Bachelor's of Science in Education
Augustine Institute: Masters of Theology
Austin Krause
Theology Teacher | Teresa | Girls Basketball
Mr. Krause has a beautiful wife, Mary Kate, and a year old son, Augustine.
"Not all are called to be rich, wise, or famous, yet all of us - yes all of us - are called to be saints." - St. Josemaria Escriva
Education
Fontbonne University: Religious Studies
Augustine Institute: Theology
Katie Walters
Theology Teacher, Director of Community | Catherine | G.R.A.C.E. (Girls Respond Actively to Christ's Example) Women's Formation
Wife to Mr. Chris Walters, who also teaches at SJA, and mother to Ethan, Olivia, Kolbe and Annie.
"Where there is no love, put love, and there you will foster love." - St. John of the Cross
Education
Benedictine College: Master of Arts in Theology and Psychology
Augustine Institute: MA Theology
FINE & PERFORMING ARTS
Jason Cole
Director of Choirs | St. Peter
Jason Cole (B.M., Tennessee Tech; M.M., University of Kansas) is a choral composer, arranger, and music educator. His arrangement of the hymn I Will Trust in the Lord was premiered at the 2017 National American Choral Directors’ Association Conference and his setting of O Gracious Light is now available from Cantica Nova. During the Summer of 2018, Jason was selected as one of the winners of a composition contest celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Hong Kong Children's Choir. Jason was also the winner of the 2019 Hymn competition held by the Widow's Corporation for the Episcopal Church of Pennsylvania in celebration of their 250th Anniversary. In addition to composing, Jason has served as a music educator for over 17 years and is currently the Director of Choral Music at St. James Academy in Lenexa, KS and the choir director at Keystone United Methodist Church in Kansas City, MO. He resides in Overland Park, KS with his wife MacKenzie and daughter Ginny.
Always Crescendo
Certifications
Composition and Choral Pedagogy
Education
Tennessee Technological University: Bachelor of Music Education
The University of Kansas: Master of Music Education
Joe Walberg
Director of Speech & Debate, Social Studies Teacher | Mother Teresa
Joe Walberg is a Parent, Teacher, Coach, Mentor, Nerd, Believer, Ultracrepidarian, Cartophile, and head coach of the Speech and Debate team of St. James Academy. He was the 2017 recipient of the SJA Teacher of Excellence award, a 2020 Fellow of the Duc in Altum Catholic Schools Collaborative, and the 2022 District New Coach of the Year for the National Speech and Debate Association. He and his wife Erin are raising two lucky-but-unimpressed children, Leah and Jack.
Isaiah 46:8-10 - Remember this and consider, recall it to mind, you transgressors, remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is no one like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, “My purpose shall stand, and I will fulfill my intention."
Certifications
History Government and Social Studies 6-12, Speech/Theatre 6-12, Business 6-12, Technology Education 6-12
Education
University of Kansas: B.G.S. Political Science
Avila University: Master of Arts in Education: Teaching and Learning
Helen Harrelson
Director of Instrumental Music | Benedict | Band and Orchestra
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace
Certifications
Postgraduate Degree in Secondary Education, OPEN University DMA Candidate, Salford University
Education
Royal Northern College of Music: BMus (Hons)
University of Missouri Kansas City: MA
Visual Arts Teacher | Peter | National Art Honor Society, Art Club
I have taught at St. James Academy since its second year in operation (2006) and taught before that for nine years at Maur Hill–Mount Academy, formerly known as Maur Hill Preparatory School in Atchison, Kansas. I teach all art mediums including drawing, painting, ceramics, a little printmaking and some sculpture, but my favorite is is teaching those with no artistic skill at all in drawing, because I, too, drew stick people before I came to discover that drawing is a LEARNABLE skill through the book, Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards. It was because of this book that I became a high school art teacher rather than an elementary school teacher, which is what I’d wanted to be since 1st grade. My husband, Cameron, and I were married in 2004 and we have two sons. Mason and Caden both attend Sacred Heart in Shawnee, where we are parishioners.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Education
Emporia State University: BSE Bachelor of Science in Education (k-12)
Emporia State University: Master of Science
Jeannie Nunn
Sewing Teacher | Peter | Sewing Club
I am married and have two children. My daughter and son-in-law both work at St. James and are the parents of my grandsons. My son lives in Olathe. Working at St.James Academy is a blessing. The position of Thunder Sewing Teacher combines my love of sewing and my love of teaching.
"Don't let your ego drive your decisions."
Education
Washburn University: Education
Baker University: MA Education
Christy L'Esperance
Accompanist | Choir, Strings, Musical
I am new to the St. James community after teaching private piano for 22 years. I'm thrilled to be here! The good Lord has blessed me and my husband with nine children who are our best buddies. I look forward to participating in (almost) all things musical here at SJA for many years to come.
"O Father, light up the small duties of this day's life: may they shine with the beauty of Thy countenance. May we believe that glory may dwell in the commonest task of every day." - St. Augustine
Education
University of Iowa: Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance and Pedagogy
WORLD LANGUAGES DEPARTMENT
Wendy Leon-Ryan
World Language | Dean of St. Padre Pio | Big Sister Little Sister Club
Married to Evan, mom to Ethan and Isabella. I enjoy running, being outdoors and reading. Would love to hold a doctorate degree one day, I'm a bit nerdy 🙂
We have come to know and to believe in the love God has for us. God is love, and whoever remains in love remains in God and God in her. 1 John 4:16
Education
Universidad de Especialidades Espíritu Santo: Business
Emporia State University: Masters Education in Teaching
Diedre Speck
American Sign Language Teacher | Peter
“Make yourself familiar with the angels and behold them frequently in spirit; for without being seen, they are present with you.” St. Francis de Sales
Certifications
Deaf Education
Education
University of Nebraska at Omaha: Education
Baker University: Master of Liberal Arts
SOCIAL SCIENCE DEPARTMENT