Staff

Andy Tylicki

President

Andy is married to Missy and has three children. Sam (14) Sophie (13) Isabella (6). He has been a member of the SJA family since June of 2004. His father Walt was a long time educator at Bishop Miege High School and is the inspiration for who Andy is today.

"I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7

Education

BSE, Emporia State

MSE Counseling, Emporia State and MA School Leadership, Benedictine College

Shane Rapp

Principal

Shane grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. He attended Benedictine College where he played four years of soccer and rugby and where he met his beautiful wife Megan. They have three children and are members of St. Paul parish in Olathe. He taught English and Theology at St. James for seven years before moving into administration.

"In the beginning was the Word...what came to be through Him was life, and this life was the light of the human race. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." -John 1:1-5

Education

Bachelor's in English and Secondary Education, Benedictine College

Master's of Arts in School Leadership, Benedictine College and Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, Baker University

Jessica Rolston

Assistant Principal

Growing up in Kansas City, KS, Jessica attended Christ The King School and Bishop Ward High School, before graduating from Piper High School. She attended Emporia State University graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education in 2000. She taught in the De Soto School district teaching multiple grade levels at the elementary level. In 2008, she graduated with her Master's Degree in Educational Administration. She served as a learning coach/school improvement specialist in multiple schools within the De Soto School District. Jessica joined the St. James Academy administrative staff in July 2016 as assistant principal.

John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me."

Education

Bachelor of Science in Education, Emporia State University

Educational Administration, Emporia State University

Mark Huppe

Assistant Principal
Director of Activities and Athletics

Mark Huppe has been at St James for 7 years as AD and Vice Principal. He was a Social Studies teacher at St Thomas Aquinas along with being Head Basketball and Baseball coach. He was the Principal of Saint Ann School in Prairie Village for 6 years before coming to St James in 2009. Mark and his wife Maureen have 7 grown children and 7 grandchildren, Maureen is in her 11th year as the Principal of Nativity Parish School in Leawood.

This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad.

Education

BSBA Marketing, Rockhurst University

Masters Educational Administration, UMKC

Debbie Nearmyer

Director of Faith Formation

Mrs. Deborah Nearmyer was an original member of the administrative team responsible for designing and implementing the Christ centered culture of St. James Academy. She was a member of the chapel design team and the faith formation committee. Prior to working at St James Academy Deborah was the Director of Youth Ministry for The Church of the Nativity in Leawood and was the co-founder of Camp Tekakwitha, our archdiocesan summer Camp and retreat facility.

COR AD COR LOQUITUR, Heart speaks to Heart. - Blessed Cardinal John Henry Newman

Education

Bachelor of Social Welfare, University of Kansas

John Muehlberger

Dean of Students

Viet Nguyen

Chaplain

Alyssa Dold

Director of Marketing & Design

With a background in fine art, Alyssa unites her creativity and love for the faith to St. James Academy as the Director of Marketing & Design.

Artists of the world, may your many different paths all lead to that infinite Ocean of beauty where wonder becomes awe, exhilaration, unspeakable joy. - JP2

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, Kansas State University

Amber Hellwig

Director of Advancement

Before Amber came to St. James Academy she worked for Special Olympics Kansas for 11 1/2 years as the KC Metro and SE Regional Director. She was in charge of fundraising, putting on and managing competitions, volunteers, and working with our local teams. She came to St. James Academy in June of 2012 as the Director of Advancement. I am so blessed and thankful to have had the opportunity to come and work at St. James. Not only does the job challenge me each and everyday but I it also challenges me to grow in my faith. I love having the opportunity to help advance the mission of the school but raising much needed funds for our growing community. She and her husband Kelby have two boys, Kody and Grayson, who keep them very busy as they are involved in many sports. Their family loves to play outside, bike ride, swim, wrestle, smile, laugh and love.

"Be Who God meant you to be and you will set the World on Fire" - St. Catherine of Seina

Education

Bachelor of Science in Therapuetic Recreation, University of Central Missouri

Karen Maginn

Director of Admissions

Karen and husband, Dennis, have three children and live in Overland Park, Kansas. Having been involved since the opening of St. James Academy in 2005, Karen appreciates the growth and ongoing interest in enrollment from families all over the metro KC area, and beyond. Working with families to envision their student growing in the St. James community has been extremely rewarding.

St. Catherine: “Love does not stay idle”.

Education

BS Public Relations, University of Northern Iowa

Masters Public Administration with Business Emphasis, Drake University

Kim Feist

Alumni Coordinator

Kim graduated in the second St. James Academy class in 2010. She began working as the SJA Alumni Coordinator in 2015 and is also a Creighton Model FertilityCare practitioner. She and her husband Derek (also an SJA alum) have a son, Levi, and are parishioners of Sacred Heart in Shawnee.

"Many good things depend - don't forget it - on whether you and I live our lives as God wants." - St. Josemaria Escriva

Education

Bachelor of Social Work, Kansas State University

Eduardo Godinez

Director of Integrated Marketing

Eduardo Godinez is originally from Toluca, Mexico. He attended Benedictine College and graduated with a degree in International Business in 2012 and has since dedicated to working in marketing for multiple Catholic nonprofits throughout the country. On April 2016, he married Colleen Quinn, and are now expecting their first child in September. They currently reside in Bucyrus, KS, and are parishioners at Queen of the Holy Rosary Wea. Eduardo enjoys archery and fishing in his free time.

“If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.” - C.S. Lewis

Education

International Business, Benedictine College

Katie Lindgren

Director of Grants Management

Bonnie-Lyn Ray

Dean of St. Gianna Molla Community

Bonnie-Lyn Ray is a transplanted Southerner from Louisiana. She is married to Scott and has a daughter who is a graduate of St. James and a son who is a junior. Mrs. Ray enjoys writing, cooking, watching LSU football, decorating, and crafting.

"Whatever God wants." - St. Gianna Molla

Classes

English 1, Ap Language, Yearbook

Education

B.S. Liberal Arts, Louisiana Tech University

M.Ed., Indiana Wesleyan University

Michael Consiglio

Michael has been teaching at St. James since 2009. He played college baseball at Fort Scott Community College and Drexel University before graduating from KSU in 2004. Michael worked in international logistics and sales prior to going to school to earn his teaching certification. He coaches football in the fall and boy's golf in the spring.

"I have the strength for everything through him who empowers me" - Philipians 4:13

Classes

Web, Entrepreneurship, Intro to Business, Marketing

Education

B.S. in Business Administration, Kansas State University

M.A.Ed in Teaching and Learning, Avila University

Samantha Hendrix

Christy Peterson

Director of Finance

Christy is married and has four children and six grandchildren. She has been working at St. James since it opened and her two youngest children were in the second and fourth graduation classes. She is a member of Holy Angels Parish in Basehor, KS. Most of her spare time is happily spent with her children and grandchildren.

Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile. Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta.

Education

B.S. in Business Administration in Accounting, Kansas State University

Certified Public Accountant

Jan Clary

Accounting Assistant

Jan and her husband, Jeff are members of Holy Spirit parish and are the parents of Kelsey, Sean and Brendan, all of whom graduated from St. James Academy.

Peace begins with a smile. - Mother Teresa

Education

BSBA Accounting, Rockhurst University

Debbie Nearmyer

Director of Faith Formation

Mrs. Deborah Nearmyer was an original member of the administrative team responsible for designing and implementing the Christ centered culture of St. James Academy. She was a member of the chapel design team and the faith formation committee. Prior to working at St James Academy Deborah was the Director of Youth Ministry for The Church of the Nativity in Leawood and was the co-founder of Camp Tekakwitha, our archdiocesan summer Camp and retreat facility.

COR AD COR LOQUITUR, Heart speaks to Heart. - Blessed Cardinal John Henry Newman

Education

Bachelor of Social Welfare, University of Kansas

Emily Thompson

Campus Ministry

Classes

Life in Christ, Campus Ministry

Ruthie Greenhalgh

Campus Ministry

Ruthie is the 2nd of 7 kids and grew up in Leawood, Kansas where she graduated from St Thomas Aquinas high school in Overland Park. After graduating from the University of Arizona she moved with her family to Philadelphia. Ruthie has spent the majority of the last 10 years on the East Coast, with the exception of a year spent in Gaming, Austria studying with Franciscan University where she pursued a Masters in Theology. She was a founding leader of the Regional Kairos retreats in Philadelphia and has been helping teenagers and young adults along their faith journeys since 2012.

“I want to become a saint; it will not be easy at all… I should have started sooner, while it was not so difficult; but, in any case, ‘better late than never.’”
St. Zelie Martin

Angela Charlton

Dean of St. Benedict Community

Angela is married to Kent Charlton and has 4 beautiful children. Micala Quinn teaches English at St. James, Jack graduated in 2016 from St. James, Max will be an incoming freshmen at St. James and Sam attends Holy Trinity Catholic School. She loves spending time with her family, gardening and variety of different crafts.

1 Corinthians 13:13And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Classes

Digital Imaging, American Government

Education

BS in Secondary Education, Kansas State University

Master's In Educational Technology, Mid-American Nazarene University

Bonnie-Lyn Ray

Dean of St. Gianna Molla Community

Bonnie-Lyn Ray is a transplanted Southerner from Louisiana. She is married to Scott and has a daughter who is a graduate of St. James and a son who is a junior. Mrs. Ray enjoys writing, cooking, watching LSU football, decorating, and crafting.

"Whatever God wants." - St. Gianna Molla

Classes

English 1, Ap Language, Yearbook

Education

B.S. Liberal Arts, Louisiana Tech University

M.Ed., Indiana Wesleyan University

Clare Larkin

Dean of St. Peter Community

Clare Larkin is a native of the Kansas prairie. She wanted to be a math teacher since she was in the 7th grade. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing sports, and reading. She is looking forward to her fourth year at the Academy!

"Be joyful always, pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16 - 18

Classes

College Prep, Combo

Education

Bachelor of Mathematics and Bachelor of Secondary Education, Benedictine College

Tom Radke

Dean of St. John Paul II Community

Coach Radke is in his 6th year as the head football coach at St. James Academy, and is a teacher in the Social Studies department. He is originally from Aurelia, IA. He has been married for 17 years to his wife Laura. They have three daughters Grace-13, Kendal-11, and Emma-6. He is a son of a newly elected Iowa High School Football Hall of fame coach Myron Radke who was a head coach in Iowa for over 30 years and won over 150 games. Coach Radke's coaching career started as an assistant coach at St. Pius X, MO and a stop at St. Thomas Aquinas, KS were he accumulated 2 state titles. At age 31 Coach Radke accepted the head football coaching job at Piper, KS where he stayed for 5 years, turning the program in to a 4A power. Coach Radke is currently the President of the Greater Kansas City Football Coaches Association (GKCFCA).

"However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to FINISH the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me, the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.”Acts 20: 22-24.

Classes

World Studies

Education

BS, Iowa State University

ME, Graceland University

Joe Walberg

Dean of St. Teresa Community

Joe Walberg followed Jesus into a career of teaching as a career-change from banking and appraisal work. He is the head coach of the 2016 Regional Champion Scholars Bowl team and assistant coach on the 2016 Regional Champion Field & Track team. Mr. Walberg lives in Shawnee, Kansas with his lovely wife and two ungrateful children.

"He must increase, but I must decrease.” — John 3:30

Classes

AP US History, Economics, AP Government, Current Events

Education

B.G.S. Political Science, University of Kansas

M.Ed. Teaching and Learning, Avila University

Matt Joshi

Dean of St. Catherine Community

Matt Joshi is in his fourth year teaching and sixth year coaching. In addition to being a social studies teacher Mr. Joshi is an assistant coach for the football and track teams at St. James Academy. Mr. Joshi is also the Dean of St. Catherine Community. Mr. Joshi is a husband to his wife Rachel and resides in Overland Park, Kansas.

Let not your hearts be troubled. John 14:1

Classes

World Studies

Education

Bachelors of Arts Political Science and Geography, University of St. Thomas

Masters in Education, Rockhurst University

Katie Walters

Director of Community System

Katie Walters is wife to Chris Walters, who also teaches at St. James Academy in the Theology Department, and mother to Ethan and a new baby girl coming this summer. She has taught Theology at SJA since 2010 and enjoys sponsoring a faith sharing group at SJA called G.R.A.C.E. (Girls Respond Actively to Christ's Example). Beginning in Fall 2016, Mrs. Walters will serve as Director of Community and continue to teach Theology to sophomores and co-teach the Christian Leadership class with Mr. Lanza.

"Whatever you do, do from the heart, as for the Lord and not for man." - Colossians 3:23

Classes

Christ's Mission

Education

Bachelors of Arts in Theology, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Benedictine

Masters in Theology, Augustine Institute (May '17)

Alex Keith

Department Head
Dean of St. Gregory Community

Alex and his wife Lauren live in Shawnee and have 2 children, Bennett and Emmy, and are members of Holy Trinity Parish. Alex met Lauren in high school at St. Thomas Aquinas where they graduated in 2009. He later studied Theology and Social Studies at Benedictine College. It is his 4th year teaching Theology and coaching football at St. James and serves as the Chair of the Theology department and Dean of St. Gregory Community.

John 6:35- Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.

Classes

Discipleship of Christ, Responding to Jesus, Leadership

Education

BA in Secondary Education and Social Studies, Benedictine College

Wendy Leon-Ryan

Spanish
Dean of St. Padre Pio Community

Señora León was born and raised in Ecuador, graduated college and married her husband before moving to the United States in 2005. She and her husband Evan have two children, Ethan and Isabella who attend Ascension Catholic School, they are all very active in their parish. She has a love for languages and their ability to open doors to new knowledge and to unite people, she is multilingual herself. She enjoys running, biking, reading, learning, traveling and all things outdoorsy.

God cannot inspire unrealizable desires. St. Thérèse de Lisieux

Classes

Spanish 1, Spanish 2, Latin Support

Education

BA Business with Hospitality and Tourism Major, Universidad de Especialidades Espíritu Santo - Guayaquil, Ecuador

Master of Education, Emporia State University (May '17)

Natalie Muehlberger

Natalie is in her fourth year at St. James and is a counselor. Before her move to the counseling department she spent two years teaching English. Prior to St. James she taught at Bishop Ward High School as an English teacher for 11 years where she also coached Volleyball and Softball. Natalie has been married to John for 12 years and they are members of Holy Trinity Parish. They have three children: Andy (21), Jillian (10) and Rose (8).

“A word or a smile is often enough to put fresh life in a despondent soul.”― Thérèse de Lisieux

Education

English and Secondary Education, Saint Mary College

MA Education in School Counseling, University of West Alabama

Liz Enna

Guided Studies

Susie Ludwikoski

Admin Assistant to the President
Counseling Admin Assistant

913-254-4258

Susie grew up in Kansas city and attended Bishop Miege High School where she met her husband John. They have 2 children, Henry and Luke. They have been members of Nativity Parish for 16 years. Susie attended Kansas State University and received a degree in Social Science Criminal Justice.

Be Joyful Always; Pray Continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is gods will for you
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Education

Kansas State University - Social Science Criminal Justice

Maureen Hellhake

Guided Studies

913-254-4246

Tracy Gay

Guided Studies

Colleen Kolich

Department Head

Antionette Ishmael

Debate
Forensics

Mrs. Ishmael (Ish) is the wife of Phil, the mother of Patrick, Anthony, Dominic, and Nani to Oliver Carmelo. She enjoys family, travel--especially to Italy to visit her relatives, crafts, dancing, and coaching.

Matthew 6: 1-14

Classes

English 4, Debate, Forensics

Education

BA, Rockhurst University

MAT, Webster U

Kirsten Miller

This is Kirsten Miller's 4th year teaching at St. James Academy. She enjoys traveling (she has been to 9 different countries), crafting, playing piano, reading, and spending time with her dog, Terrence.

Isaiah 43:1 "Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;I have called you by name: you are mine."

Classes

English 1, Speech, Genius of Women

Education

English/Secondary Education, Benedictine College

Alli Jordan

Alli Jordan is a published poet and playwright. She loves helping out with the Performing Arts department and enjoys integrating creative writing in the English classroom. After teaching college composition for three years, Jordan was excited to go back to teaching high school. She currently teaches Honors English I and AP Language and Composition. Her dream is to one day own a cat sanctuary.

"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." -Jeremiah 29:11

Classes

AP Language, Honors English 1

Education

BSE in Secondary English Education, Emporia State

MFA in Creative Writing and the Media Arts, UMKC

Rebecca Bishop

Rebecca Bishop is entering her sixth year of teaching Secondary English. For her first four years she taught at Maur Hill-Mount Academy and will be starting her second year at St. James Academy this fall. She enjoys spending time with her husband James and daughter Harper and loves following her favorite sports' teams. She is a lifelong member of Sacred Heart of Jesus parish in Shawnee and was apart of the 2003 graduating class. She hopes her students gain a strong work ethic in her class as well as become lifelong readers.

"It would be considered a theft on our part if we didn't give to someone in greater need than we are." - St. Francis Assisi

Classes

English 2, English 3

Education

BSEd English, Pittsburg State University

Evan Bradfield

Evan Bradfield hails from the thriving metropolis of Wichita, Kansas. After graduating from Benedictine College in 2015, during which time he student taught at St. James, Evan took his dream job teaching English at SJA. In his free time, he reads poetry, spends time outside in the beauty of God's creation, and looks forward to marriage with his wonderful fiance.

Verso L' Alto -Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati. It is translated, "to the heights."

Classes

English 2, English 3

Education

English and Secondary Education, Benedictine College

Samantha Branson

Mrs. Branson, who lives with her husband and children in Miami County, became a teacher after an 18-year career as a newspaper copy editor and page designer. Joining the Catholic faith helped bring her to St. James. When not exploring English and literature, she enjoys music, art, hanging out with family and especially being a busy mom of two creative, musical and sports-loving teenagers.

"Be who God meant you to be, and you will set the world on fire." - St. Catherine of Siena

Classes

English 1, English 4

Education

Bachelor of English, University of Kansas, Bachelor of Journalism, Kansas State University

Master of Arts in Secondary Education, Pitt State

Theresa Gross

Theresa Gross is originally from St. Paul, Minnesota but made her way south to study English and run Track and Field at Benedictine College. She stuck around the area after college teaching middle school English for three years and this is her first year at St. James. In her free time, Theresa loves reading, running, painting, and dilly dallying in coffee shops.

“I have found a desire within myself that no experience in this world can satisfy; the most probably explanation is that I was made for another world” –C.S. Lewis

Classes

English 1

Education

BA in English and Secondary Education, Benedictine College

Rick Steagall

Director of Facilities

Mike Medina

Head Wrestling Coach

Jimmy Muehlberger

Donna Sharpnack

Department Head

Mrs. Sharpnack has taught for many years in many places. She joined the St. James community in 2012.

Joan of Arc - " I am not afraid , I was born for this."

Classes

Honors Pre Calc, Combo

Education

Bachelor of Science, Mathematics Eduacation, University of Oklahoma

Masters of Arts Education, Baker University

Sam Rockford

Stan Dohm

Head Boys Basketball Coach

Coach Dohm is beginning his fifth season at St. James Academy and is a teacher in the Math department. He grew up in Sharon, KS. He has been married for 15 years to his wife Sidni. Together they have 4 children Spencer-10, Sam-9, Sophia-5, and Sullivan-3. They are members of Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee. Both Spencer and Sam attend school there as well. Stan’s dad was a head boys’ basketball coach for 37 years in the state of Kansas.
Coach Dohm began coaching at Hutchinson CC working for Chad Wintz. In 2004 the Blue Dragons won the first league title in over 10 years. Stan also served as an assistant to the cross country program and Algebra Instructor. After 3 years in the position Stan took the head boys basketball position at Campus High School in Wichita. He held the same position at Haven High School and Cheney High School. During his 4 year stay at Cheney, his teams won the league title twice, finished third twice and had an overall record of 68-22 and qualifying for their first ever 4A state berth.

Coach Dohm earned his Associate’s Degree from Hutchinson Community College, his Bachelors from Newman University, and his Master’s Degree from Wichita State University. He was an Academic All-American all four year of playing basketball in college, 2 at HCC and 2 at Newman. While at Newman he was also named Honorable Mention All-American both his junior and senior season. He still holds the single season free throw percentage record in high school in the state of Kansas. His junior season he connected on 94.7% of his attempts.

“Pray, Hope, and Don’t Worry” -St. Pio of Pietrelcino

Classes

Honors Algebra 2

Education

Secondary Education in Social Science, Newman University

Sports Management, Wichita State University

Clare Larkin

Dean of St. Peter Community

Clare Larkin is a native of the Kansas prairie. She wanted to be a math teacher since she was in the 7th grade. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing sports, and reading. She is looking forward to her fourth year at the Academy!

"Be joyful always, pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16 - 18

Classes

College Prep, Combo

Education

Bachelor of Mathematics and Bachelor of Secondary Education, Benedictine College

Lee Ann Ochs

Mrs. Ochs has been teaching for 10 years. She has taught at St. James for 3 years. Mrs. Ochs is a parishioner at St. Michael the Archangel and is married with 5 children - her sixth little one will be here in November!

Matthew 6:34. So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today's troubles are enough for today.

Classes

Intro to Algebra, Pre Algebra, Algebra 2

Education

BS in Education in Mathematics, Missouri State University

Masters Education in Mathematics Education, North Carolina State University

Julie Curnes

Julie has been married to Phillip for 20 years. They have five children. Their oldest child Andrea is a sophomore at Saint James. The other four children attend Holy Trinity. Sam is in 8th grade, Stephen is in 6th grade, Audrey is in 4th grade and Alice is in 2nd grade. They also have a dog named Eddie and a kitten named Arty. They enjoy hiking and canoeing or kayaking as a family. Julie enjoys reading when she is not attending games or concerts for her children. This will be Julie's first year teaching at Saint James Academy. She has most recently been the 7th and 8th grade math teacher at Holy Trinity.
Julie graduated from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio in 1993. She started teaching that same year at Mission Valley Middle School in Prairie Village and then taught at Shawnee Mission East High School for several years. In 2000, she decided to stay home when their first child was born. For the next 11 years she tutored high school math to many students. She has also taught a few semesters in Introductory Algebra and Intermediate Algebra at Johnson County Community College.

Julie is excited to be back teaching high school students. She feels blessed to be at Saint James Academy for the coming school year.

Proverbs 3:6 - In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths

Classes

Geometry, Honors Geometry

Education

OH BS in Secondary Math Education, Miami University, Oxford

Curriculum and Instruction, University of Kansas

Kaitlin Hammersla

Sam Bruning

Sam played football for 4 years at SJA and graduated in the class of 2013. He attended JCCC for two years and then KU, where he graduated in 2017. He student taught at Lawrence High School and St. Ann Catholic School. He Volunteers at Advocacy in Motion running “Move It Monday” program and is on the PRN staff at the Down Syndrome Guild of Greater KC. He will be coaching football at SJA (freshmen defensive coordinator and varsity defensive line coach). And his home parish is Holy Spirit.

Cole Orrick

Cole played football for 4 years at SJA and graduated in the class of 2013 . He then played junior college football at Independence CC before going to JCCC and then KU. He is currently the strength and conditioning coach as well as the Co-Defensive Coordinator for the football team and will be entering his 4th season of coaching at SJA. He is currently enrolled in a Business Education program at FHSU to get his teaching certificate, and Master's soon after. He was born in Overland Park, KS, and still resides there.

"To whom much is given, much will be expected."-Luke 12:48

Classes

Weights, P.E

Education

BS Business Administration, University of Kansas

Kerri Elstun

Coach Elstun is the head softball coach for the Lady Thunder and has been since the building opened in 2005. She currently teaches Biology and Health at St. James and resides in Lenexa, Kansas.

"Pray, Hope, and Don't Worry"

Classes

Biology, Health

Education

BAED, Emporia State

MAED, Baker University

Greg Bomhoff

Greg Bomhoff is from Wichita, Kansas and is a graduate of Bishop Carroll Catholic High School where he ran track and cross country. Greg holds a BS in Biochemistry and a BA in Physics from Southwestern College where he ran track and cross country and was named an Academic All-American. He completed his post-graduate degree, an MS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, from the University of Kansas Medical Center where he met and married his wife, Anna. Greg spent five years as a lab manager in the Department of Anatomy and Physiology at KU Med Center where he studied the effects of exercise on Type II Diabetes. Greg currently teaches AP Chemistry and AP Physics and is the head track and field coach. He lives in Overland Park with his wife and two boys, Andrew (10) and Brett (7).

"Live with passion and compassion, proceed with optimism, value disciplined thinking, be open to intimacy and love the mystery." -St. Peter

Classes

Physics, AP Physics, AP Chem

Education

B.S. Biochemistry, Southwestern College

M.S. Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, KU Medical Center

Jackie Heinerikson

Department Head

Jackie and her family have lived in Shawnee and have been members of the Sacred Heart of Jesus parish since 2003. First teaching at Immaculate High School in Leavenworth for two years, Jackie moved to St. James Academy in 2008. She has had the pleasure to teach a couple elective classes (Earth/Space Science and Field Biology), as well as Biology, Pre AP Biology, and AP Biology. Along with the other members of the science department, Jackie helped to establish the first charter for the Science National Honor Society at St. James Academy in 2015.

"In this life we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love."Mother Teresa

Classes

Honors Biology, AP Biology

Education

BS in Education,

MS in Curriculum and Instruction,

Julie Ward

Julie is starting her fifth year teaching at St. James Academy. Along with her husband Brian and two children, she is a member of Holy Trinity parish. At St. James, she is currently teaching Biology, Pre-AP Chemistry, and serves as an assistant track coach.

I alone cannot change the world, but I can cat a stone across the waters to create many ripples. -Mother Teresa

Classes

Biology, Honors Chemistry

Education

BS in Chemical Science, Kansas State University

MS Curriculum and Instruction, Avila University

Anna Larsen

Anna lives in Lenexa with her husband, Zak, and their son, Michael. She is originally from Minnesota and enjoys spending time outdoors, camping with her family, and playing soccer & ice hockey. Anna has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education from Benedictine College. She teaches science and coaches boys' and girls' JV soccer at St. James.

"Life has meaning to the extent that it becomes a gift freely given to others." - St. John Paul II

Classes

Meterology, Astronomy, Chemistry, Physical Science

Education

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education, Benedictine College

Angela Schermerhorn

Angela Schermerhorn is a wife, mother of three, and a St. James teacher. She enjoys reading, walking, and watching high school sports. As a teacher, she hopes to motivate students to do their best and to cultivate a love of learning.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence do not rely; In all your ways be mindful of him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

Classes

College Exploration, Biology

Education

BS, University of Notre Dame

MPH, University of Kansas and MAT, Pittsburg State University

Paige James

Classes

Physics, Chemistry

Alan Thomas

Angela Charlton

Dean of St. Benedict Community

Angela is married to Kent Charlton and has 4 beautiful children. Micala Quinn teaches English at St. James, Jack graduated in 2016 from St. James, Max will be an incoming freshmen at St. James and Sam attends Holy Trinity Catholic School. She loves spending time with her family, gardening and variety of different crafts.

1 Corinthians 13:13And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Classes

Digital Imaging, American Government

Education

BS in Secondary Education, Kansas State University

Master's In Educational Technology, Mid-American Nazarene University

Tim Wuebker

Tim has taught over 2,000 high school & college students from six continents.

Classes

Civil War/WW2, Personal Finance, American History

Education

Mathematics, Literature, and Writing, Loras College of Dubuque, IA

M.A., Literature, Marquette University

Nancy Dorsey

Nancy Dorsey, a graduate of the University of Kansas and a 4 year letter winner in their volleyball program has been coaching volleyball for the past 15 years.  Eleven years ago when St. James Academy opened in Lenexa, KS Dorsey became the head coach at a brand new school with only a freshman class.  In just 9 Varsity seasons Dorsey's teams have won 7 State Championships (2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015) and finished 2nd three times 2007, 2014, 2016).  In the past 10 seasons Dorsey's teams have also received National recognition being crowned the PrepVolleyball.com National Champs in both the 2010 and 2013 seasons. In 2013, Dorsey's team remained unbeaten, going 46-0, dropping only one single set the entire season. The Thunder also finished 4th in the nation (PrepVolleyball.com) in the 2008 and 2011 seasons as well as a 3rd place National finish in 2015.  Dorsey's teams have played in 10 straight state title matches.  In 2013 Dorsey was named the American Family Insurance All-USA Coach of the Year.  She has received numerous other coaching awards including the 2013 KCA Coach of the Year, 4A COY (2008, 2009) 5A COY (2012, 2013, 2015) the Greater Kansas City Volleyball Coaches Association COY in 2008, 2011 and in 2013 she was a Kansas City Sports Commission Coach of the Year Finalist.  In 2015 Dorsey was selected as the AVCA National Coach of the Year.  Dorsey coaches with her husband Bryan and the two share five children together, triplets, Finley, Ellen and Cooper (7) and Fiona (5), and Fletcher (2).

Take refuge in the shelter of My wings, where you are absolutely secure. When you are shaken out of your comfortable routines grip My hand tightly and look for growth opportunities. Instead of bemoaning the loss of our comfort, accept the challenge of something new. I lead you on from glory to glory, making you fit for MY kingdom. Say yes to the ways I work in your life. Trust ME and don’t be afraid. Isaiah 12:2 Psalm 61: 2-4; 2 Corinthians 3:18

Classes

Pre AP History

Education

University of Kansas Bachelor's in Education

Masters in Curriculum and Instruction, University of Kansas

Tom Radke

Dean of St. John Paul II Community

Coach Radke is in his 6th year as the head football coach at St. James Academy, and is a teacher in the Social Studies department. He is originally from Aurelia, IA. He has been married for 17 years to his wife Laura. They have three daughters Grace-13, Kendal-11, and Emma-6. He is a son of a newly elected Iowa High School Football Hall of fame coach Myron Radke who was a head coach in Iowa for over 30 years and won over 150 games. Coach Radke's coaching career started as an assistant coach at St. Pius X, MO and a stop at St. Thomas Aquinas, KS were he accumulated 2 state titles. At age 31 Coach Radke accepted the head football coaching job at Piper, KS where he stayed for 5 years, turning the program in to a 4A power. Coach Radke is currently the President of the Greater Kansas City Football Coaches Association (GKCFCA).

"However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to FINISH the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me, the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.”Acts 20: 22-24.

Classes

World Studies

Education

BS, Iowa State University

ME, Graceland University

Joe Walberg

Dean of St. Teresa Community

Joe Walberg followed Jesus into a career of teaching as a career-change from banking and appraisal work. He is the head coach of the 2016 Regional Champion Scholars Bowl team and assistant coach on the 2016 Regional Champion Field & Track team. Mr. Walberg lives in Shawnee, Kansas with his lovely wife and two ungrateful children.

"He must increase, but I must decrease.” — John 3:30

Classes

AP US History, Economics, AP Government, Current Events

Education

B.G.S. Political Science, University of Kansas

M.Ed. Teaching and Learning, Avila University

Matt Joshi

Dean of St. Catherine Community

Matt Joshi is in his fourth year teaching and sixth year coaching. In addition to being a social studies teacher Mr. Joshi is an assistant coach for the football and track teams at St. James Academy. Mr. Joshi is also the Dean of St. Catherine Community. Mr. Joshi is a husband to his wife Rachel and resides in Overland Park, Kansas.

Let not your hearts be troubled. John 14:1

Classes

World Studies

Education

Bachelors of Arts Political Science and Geography, University of St. Thomas

Masters in Education, Rockhurst University

Sr. M. Hedwig

Theresa Lyons

Admin Assistant to the Principal

Theresa has been a part of St. James beginning in 2005 as a parent. Her middle and youngest sons were in the first two graduating classes at St. James Academy. She began working at St. James as Administrative Assistant to the Principal in December, 2010. She has a BS Degree in Education-Elementary & Special Education K-12. Theresa is married to her best friend, Mike Lyons. They have three sons, Joe (daughter-in-law Sarah), Chris (daughter-in-law Christine), and Mike (daughter-in-law to be Katie). She and Mike are also celebrating the birth of their first grand child, Sophie, this July! In her free time, Theresa enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading and quilting.

"Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness: kindness on your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile." - Blessed Mother Teresa

Classes

Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Special Education, University of Missouri-St. Louis

Anna Bomhoff

Activities Office Admin Assistant

Julie Mayfield

Nurse

Julie is married and has four children. Her oldest two graduated from St. James Academy and now attend the University of Kansas. Her younger two children attend St. James Academy currently. She and her family are members of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Shawnee.

"Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4: 6-7

Education

Bachelor of Science in Nursing,

Cathy McNally

Registrar
Information Systems Manager

Cathy is married to her best friend, and together they have been blessed with three great kids. Faith, Family and Friends are top priority for Cathy. Cathy served as a market manager for a major corporation for over 25 years before joining the academic world. She loves working with SJA families and students. She is always on the look-out for how to make something better - whether it be a process improvement or action or just someone's day. She especially enjoys helping families search for ways to make college more affordable. She loves watching dreams come true. Cathy has high regard for the Blessed Virgin Mary and believes strongly in the power of prayer and praying the Rosary. She also enjoys Mother Theresa's quips on life: I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish that He didn't trust me so much.

Everytime you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing

Classes

Bachelor in Business Administration in Management, Ottawa University

Shalee Morris

Attendance

"God does not require that we be successful only that we be faithful.” Mother Teresa

Education

BA Corporate Communication, Avila University

Certificate in Spiritual Mentorship, School of Faith

Caroline Schippers

Data Manager

Caroline, her husband Dale, and their three children, live in Olathe, KS and are members of Prince of Peace Parish.

Isaiah 41:10: So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Education

Bachelors in Economics,

Terri O'Neill

Faith Formation Admin Assistant

School Resource Officer

Susie Ludwikoski

Admin Assistant to the President
Counseling Admin Assistant

913-254-4258

Susie grew up in Kansas city and attended Bishop Miege High School where she met her husband John. They have 2 children, Henry and Luke. They have been members of Nativity Parish for 16 years. Susie attended Kansas State University and received a degree in Social Science Criminal Justice.

Be Joyful Always; Pray Continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is gods will for you
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Education

Kansas State University - Social Science Criminal Justice

Cathy McNally

Registrar
Information Systems Manager

Cathy is married to her best friend, and together they have been blessed with three great kids. Faith, Family and Friends are top priority for Cathy. Cathy served as a market manager for a major corporation for over 25 years before joining the academic world. She loves working with SJA families and students. She is always on the look-out for how to make something better - whether it be a process improvement or action or just someone's day. She especially enjoys helping families search for ways to make college more affordable. She loves watching dreams come true. Cathy has high regard for the Blessed Virgin Mary and believes strongly in the power of prayer and praying the Rosary. She also enjoys Mother Theresa's quips on life: I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish that He didn't trust me so much.

Everytime you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing

Classes

Bachelor in Business Administration in Management, Ottawa University

Jerry Tujague

Director of Technology

Jerry and his wife, Lucy, were both born and raised in New Orleans, LA. Jerry graduated from Jesuit High School in New Orleans, and Auburn University, where he also received two masters degrees. He worked in the computer technology industry for several years in New Orleans. He was hired by Sprint as a Program Manager in 2000, and relocated his family to Kansas at that time. This will be Jerry's 5th year at St. James. He and his wife are celebrating 25 years of marriage this year, and have 7 children. Their oldest three children graduated from St. James, two of their children currently attend St. James, and their two youngest children attend Sacred Heart in Shawnee, where they are parishioners. Jerry enjoys fishing, camping, spending time with his family, watching his kids' activities, and the New Orleans Saints.

"Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make my heart like unto thine." St. Francis of Assisi

Education

BS Aquaculture, Auburn University

MS Aquaculture; MBA, Auburn University

Joe Lindgren

Laptop Program Manager

Joe manages the One-to-One Laptop Program at SJA. His specialties include asking users to turn their computers on and off again-- which will solve about 95% of computer-related issues, by the way-- ensuring that user devices which will not turn on are, in fact, plugged in (this covers about 3.5% of the remaining 5%), and fixing those remaining 1.5% of computers which still do not work. He also teaches Film History and would love to have a discussion with you about Weimar culture's influence on the German Expressionist movement, and the impact the French-Algerian War had upon Jean-Luc Godard's New Wave output in the late Sixties. Joe has a wife, Katie-- they share a love of good literature, tasty food, traveling, hanging out in their Waldo neighborhood, and playing with their one-and-a-half year old son Jim. Jim likes to turn light switches on and off and on and off and on and off again, and is thus well on his way to following in his father’s footsteps.

Lord, make me pure. But not yet.-- St. Augustine

Classes

Film

Education

BA Political Science, Rockhurst University

M.Ed. Secondary Social Studies, Rockhurst University

Sebastian D'Amico

Sebastian has been a Catechist at St. James Academy since 2005. He graduated from the University of Kansas in 2004 with a degree in English and Spanish education and received a certificate of Catechesis from the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center. He is currently working on his Masters degree in Biblical Theology from the Augustine Institute with their distance education program. He has been an adjunct professor for School of Faith since 2011. In 2015 he went full time for School of Faith and has been a part time teacher at St. James ever since. He and his wife Victoria and son reside in Overland Park KS.

Katie Walters

Director of Community System

Katie Walters is wife to Chris Walters, who also teaches at St. James Academy in the Theology Department, and mother to Ethan and a new baby girl coming this summer. She has taught Theology at SJA since 2010 and enjoys sponsoring a faith sharing group at SJA called G.R.A.C.E. (Girls Respond Actively to Christ's Example). Beginning in Fall 2016, Mrs. Walters will serve as Director of Community and continue to teach Theology to sophomores and co-teach the Christian Leadership class with Mr. Lanza.

"Whatever you do, do from the heart, as for the Lord and not for man." - Colossians 3:23

Classes

Christ's Mission

Education

Bachelors of Arts in Theology, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Benedictine

Masters in Theology, Augustine Institute (May '17)

Alex Keith

Department Head
Dean of St. Gregory Community

Alex and his wife Lauren live in Shawnee and have 2 children, Bennett and Emmy, and are members of Holy Trinity Parish. Alex met Lauren in high school at St. Thomas Aquinas where they graduated in 2009. He later studied Theology and Social Studies at Benedictine College. It is his 4th year teaching Theology and coaching football at St. James and serves as the Chair of the Theology department and Dean of St. Gregory Community.

John 6:35- Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.

Classes

Discipleship of Christ, Responding to Jesus, Leadership

Education

BA in Secondary Education and Social Studies, Benedictine College

Chris Walters

Mr. Walters works at St. James Academy along with his wife who also works in the Theology department. He coaches freshmen football and is head coach for Lenten Season. He is a mentor teacher for Padre Pio community and he most enjoys spending time with his wife and his two children.

"We love because he first loved us." 1 John 4:19

Classes

Salvation History, Life in Christ

Education

Bachelor of Science in Education, University of Kansas

Masters in Theology, Augustine Institute (May '17)

Luke Doyle

Luke is originally from Topeka, KS; the second in a family of eight children. He attended Assumption Catholic Grade School and Hayden Catholic High School, before beginning his collegiate career at Creighton University. During his time at Creighton, Luke entered seminary formation for the Archdiocese to seriously discern his vocation. This led him to complete his degree in philosophy from Cardinal Glennon College in St. Louis before being sent by Archbishop Naumann to study theology and continue his discernment and formation in the city of Rome. Luke's vocational discernment led him back to Kansas City where he now lives and teaches at St. James Academy. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he is the Dean of St. Peter's Community and is readily involved in SJA soccer, Sons of Thunder, and Thunder for Life. He also serves as a spiritual mentor and catechist at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Parish in Leawood.

"Dear friends, may no adversity paralyze you. Be afraid neither of the world, nor of the future, nor of your weakness; for the Lord has allowed you to live in this moment of history so that, by your faith, His name will continue to resound throughout the world!" -Pope Benedict XVI

Classes

Apologetics, Salvation History

Education

BA Philosophy, Cardinal Glennon College

STB Theology, Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas, Rome

Charles Lanza

Charles Lanza is a recent graduate from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA. He and his family have been living in Tonganoxie, KS for the past four years. At St. James, Charles will be teaching Salvation History, as well as coaching Bowling in the Winter. He enjoys golfing with his dad and gardening and knitting with his fiance, Emma.

"Then he said to Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said to him, I promise thee, this day thou shalt be with me in Paradise." Luke 23: 42-43

Classes

Salvation History

Education

B.A. Catholic Studies, B.A. Psychology, College of the Holy Cross

Emily Thompson

Campus Ministry

Classes

Life in Christ, Campus Ministry

Annelise Feder

Helen Harrelson

Director of Instrumental Music

Helen graduated in 2003 from the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, England, where she gained her Bachelor of Music (Honours) degree. In 2005 she completed her Open University Post Graduate Certificate of Education which lead her into the roles of Head of Music Curriculum for Bolton Music Authority and Student Teacher Mentor at the RNCM. Over the past 15 years Helen has been a member of some of the worlds finest brass ensembles with whom she has toured, recorded and competed, winning numerous national titles both in the UK and USA. She has been a guest artist and clinician for the North American Brass Band Summer School, the International Woman’s Brass Conference, the International Tuba & Euphonium Conference, Kansas Music Educators Association, Missouri Music Educators Association and received an award for outstanding contribution to music education from the Kansas Bandmasters Association.

Summer 2007 saw Helen take a voluntary sabbatical to Kansas City to perform with the Fountain City Brass Band and to develop their youth brass band program. Her love of Kansas City saw her return back to the US in 2008 as Instrumental Music Teacher at St. James Academy. Since then, she has developed the school’s band and orchestra program and established the St. Cecilia Middle School Community Band Project at Sacred Heart of Jesus. She recently completed her Masters of Arts in Music at the UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance where she also became a member of Phi Kappa Phi.

Helen is delighted to be part of the SJA performing Arts community and is passionate about sharing her love of music with students.

Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace - Prayer of St. Francis

Classes

Strings, Band, Music Theory

Education

BMus (Hons), Royal Northern College of Music

Music Education, OPEN University & MA, UMKC Conservatory of Music & Dance

Terra Henderson

Visual Arts

After graduating from Emporia State University in 1997, Terra worked at Maur Hill Prep School in Atchison. During her time there they merged with their sister school, and became Maur Hill-Mt. Academy. She taught art there for 9 years until she met her husband, Cameron, and they moved to Basehor. After having their first son, Terra came to St. James Academy in its second year of operation and they had a second son. Terra and her family have since moved to Shawnee, where they are members of Sacred Heart of Jesus parish.

Philippians 4:6 Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known by God.

Classes

Painting, Ceramics, Advanced Drawing, Intro to Drawing

Education

Bachelor of Science in Education, Emporia State University

Master of Science, Emporia State University

Sherri Denton

Visual Arts

Sherri was born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida. After graduating from Florida State University with a B.S. in Interior Design she worked and lived in California. Monterey, California held residential opportunities, and later moved to San Jose area for corporate design, finally settling in Southern California. After marriage, Sherri and her husband moved to Arlington, Texas where she helped to expand her husband's tooling company from one manufacturing plant to five plants. Girl and boy twins Stephanie and Morgan came along and Sherri was blessed to be an at home mom. The children's elementary school years found Sherri involved in many volunteer positions including being a Girl Scout and Boy Scout Leader, School of Religion teacher and aide to an accomplished art teacher at her children's school. The variety of experiences lead Sherri into Art Education. She started this career at Sacred Heart of Jesus in Shawnee, Ks in 2006 and has been at St. James since 2011. Travel has always held a special interest since she went on a summer long adventure with her parents and siblings driving to San Jose, Costa Rica from Florida in a motor home. She's been to 13 European countries and thirty one States. She enjoys gardening, reading, researching, design, kayaking and road trips.

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Prayer and hymn by Anonymous, but attributed to St. Francis of Assisi since it was found in his church in Assisi.

Classes

Intro to Drawing, Painting, Architecture and Design

Education

Bachelor of Science, Interior Design, Florida State University

Jeannie Nunn

Sewing & Costuming

Jeannie taught 6th grade for 26 years in the Shawnee Mission School District. Her love of sewing and teaching brought her to the position of Thunder Sewing Teacher. Jeannie's goals for her sewing classes are to teach basic sewing skills students can use for service to others and for personal enjoyment, and to develop an important life skill. Fun is the ultimate goal in the Thunder Sewing Center!

Integrity is doing the right thing when no one is watching.

Classes

Sewing, Advanced Sewing

Education

BS Education, Washburn University

MA Education, Baker University

Anna Kinkade

Instrumental Music
Performing Arts Department Head

Anna was born and raised in Shawnee, KS. She attended Benedictine College, earning her Bachelor's degree in Spanish and Sociology . In addition to her travels to El Salvador while in college, Anna studied abroad in Seville, Spain for a semester. She was a member of the Benedictine College symphonic band and drum corps. She has worked with high school drum line programs throughout the area as a clinician, as well as a percussion tutor for the Fountain City Youth Brass Academy. She is a member of the Fountain City Brass Band.

"Don't look for big things, just do small things with great love. . . . The smaller the thing, the greater must be our love.” -Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Classes

Spanish 1, Band, Intro to Music

Education

BA Spanish and Sociology, Benedictine College

MAT Secondary, Pittsburg State University

Jason Cole

Choir

Jason Cole has taught vocal and general music in the Kansas City area for fifteen years and is currently teaching choir at St. James’ Academy High School in Lenexa, KS. Jason has a Bachelor of Music Education from Tennessee Tech and a Master of Music Education with an emphasis in choral pedagogy from The University of Kansas. He has sung with numerous choral groups including the Grammy award winning Kansas City Chorale and the Kansas City Symphony Chorus. Jason is also a published composer and arranger as well as the director of the children’s choir at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Brookside. He resides in Overland Park, KS with his wife Ali and daughter Ginny.

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34

Classes

Freshman, Chamber, Concert, Adv Women Choir, Musical Tech

Education

Bachelor of Music Education, Tennessee Technological University

Master of Music Education, University of Kansas

Corbin Hernandez

Drama

Corbin was born and raised in Olathe, KS. He met his wife, Rachel, while studying in the Theatre Department at Benedictine College. The two were married in Omaha, NE and have two children; one in heaven and one on Earth. He has been studying or working in the theatre for over 10 years and has worked or performed at multiple theatres in Kansas City, MO; Savannah, GA; and Atchison, KS. He is an actor, director, designer, and playwright.

“Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you.” -St. Augustine

Classes

Drama

Education

BA in Theatre Arts, Benedictine College

MacKenzie Wright

Accompanist for Vocal Music

Anna Kinkade

Instrumental Music
Performing Arts Department Head

Anna was born and raised in Shawnee, KS. She attended Benedictine College, earning her Bachelor's degree in Spanish and Sociology . In addition to her travels to El Salvador while in college, Anna studied abroad in Seville, Spain for a semester. She was a member of the Benedictine College symphonic band and drum corps. She has worked with high school drum line programs throughout the area as a clinician, as well as a percussion tutor for the Fountain City Youth Brass Academy. She is a member of the Fountain City Brass Band.

"Don't look for big things, just do small things with great love. . . . The smaller the thing, the greater must be our love.” -Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Classes

Spanish 1, Band, Intro to Music

Education

BA Spanish and Sociology, Benedictine College

MAT Secondary, Pittsburg State University

Sonia Toledo

Spanish
Department Head

Sonia is a native of Peru. Her family is from Peru and Austria. She attended the University of Vienna, University of Kansas, University of Toulouse, and Emporia State University. She speaks multiple languages, including Spanish, German, French, and English. Sonia brings business and world experience to the classroom. She worked in international business for many years before becoming a teacher.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Classes

Spanish 2, Honors Spanish 2, Honors Spanish 4

Education

BS Business Administration, University of Kansas

MA TESOL, Emporia State University

Tyler Supalla

Latin

Tyler is in his second year of teaching Latin and coaching basketball at St. James Academy. He is the youngest son of three children from Owatonna, MN. Tyler studied Philosophy, Theology, and Classical Languages at Benedictine College. He enjoys discovering the beauty of life through prayer, friendship, reading, and exercise.

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." (John 10:10)

Classes

Latin 1, Latin 2, Honors Latin 2, Honors Latin 3, Honors Latin 4/5

Education

Philosophy, Theology, Classical Languages, Benedictine College

Deidre Speck

Sign Language

Deidre is thrilled to be teaching at SJA! She has taught deaf education in both residential and public schools for 30 years, where she has used sign language and developed relationships with the deaf community. She has two daughters, Breanna, 25 and Michaela, 20. She is especially blessed to have the support and love of her husband, Brad.

Classes

Sign Language 1, Sign Language 2, Sign Language 3

Education

Bachelor of Science, University of Nebraska at Omaha

Master of Liberal Arts, Baker University

Wendy Leon-Ryan

Spanish
Dean of St. Padre Pio Community

Señora León was born and raised in Ecuador, graduated college and married her husband before moving to the United States in 2005. She and her husband Evan have two children, Ethan and Isabella who attend Ascension Catholic School, they are all very active in their parish. She has a love for languages and their ability to open doors to new knowledge and to unite people, she is multilingual herself. She enjoys running, biking, reading, learning, traveling and all things outdoorsy.

God cannot inspire unrealizable desires. St. Thérèse de Lisieux

Classes

Spanish 1, Spanish 2, Latin Support

Education

BA Business with Hospitality and Tourism Major, Universidad de Especialidades Espíritu Santo - Guayaquil, Ecuador

Master of Education, Emporia State University (May '17)

Bob Weinstein

Spanish