CCA High School Daily Announcements Athletics Activites Staff Student Council Prom HS Library Honor Rolls Art Club Choirs Band Speech & Drama German Spanish Home
Jane
Astor
math
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/astor-s-class/
I graduated with a BS degree from Mount Mercy University. My major was Mathematics with an Education minor. My first teaching position was at Mid-Prairie High School. After two years at Mid-Prairie, I joined Clear Creek. During my 29 years at CCA, a lot has happened. At one point the school had 143 students. We joined with Amana the next year and our enrollment has grown ever since. We are currently at a very nice size and have moved to a new building with excellent locker rooms.
During my time at CCA, I have sponsored the student council and the academic decathlon team. I am currently coaching cross country and track. I have taught many math courses during my 29 years and am currently teaching Algebra and Calculus.
I am fortunate enough to have a great family. My husband Jeff, daughter Jacqueline, and son Jake are all healthy and doing well. We live in North Liberty. I look forward to another great school year and love to get to know my students better. GO CLIPPERS.
Theodore Barker
special
education
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/mr-barker/
Hi, my name is Thad Barker and I am starting my 16th year as a special education teacher at CCA High School. I was born in Kentucky but have lived all but six months of my life in the great state of Iowa. I grew up in the Quad-Cities and am a graduate of Bettendorf High School. I earned my BS in Physical Education from the University of Iowa in 1995 and later earned my MA in Special Education from the University of Iowa in 2000.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Clear Creek Amana and look forward to spending many more years here. My favorite part of the job is developing relationships with the students and their families. It is also gratifying to see a student struggling over a particular skill and then to see it finally “click.”
I live in North Liberty (in the CCA District) with my wonderful wife, Suzy (member of the last graduating class of Clear Creek High School), and my five beautiful children, Kaylie (11 years old), Brandon (9), Haidyn (7), Kira (5) and Drew (1). We also are the owners of a 13 year-old one-eyed cat named Rounder.
My passions are sports, family and church. I absolutely love all things Hawkeye, the Chicago Bears, Chicago White Sox and anything related to track & field. I enjoy running and love the fact that it has become a family activity for my whole crew. Above all else, I am most passionate about my relationship with Jesus Christ.
Timothy Benson
Project Lead The Way
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/cca-project-lead-the-way-pre-engineering/
I am Tim Benson the high school engineering teacher. I am entering my 6th year in this position and 9th overall in the district. This year I will be teaching four classes in the Project Lead the Way pre-engineering program; Intro to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, Digital Electronics and Civil Engineering and Architecture. In addition to teaching II coach the boys high school soccer team and I oversee the robotics team. I cannot call the robotics coaching as I try to keep them as autonomous as possible. I am graduate of Williamston High School and Hope College, both in Michigan, and I was educated enough at the University of Iowa they let me teach in this state and root for the Hawkeyes.
I am blessed with a superb wife and three young boys so whatever interests outside of work I used to have were replaced by books, blocks, trucks, trains, video games, playing outside, taking care of the house and yard and variety of other fatherly tasks.
Anthony Brack
science
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/clear-creek-amana-biology/
Hello, my name is Tony Brack, and I am entering my 8th year as a CCA teacher. I am currently the Biology Teacher and Boys Track and Field Coach.I am a CCA graduate of 1995 and love teaching with the educators I had as a student.
After high school, I attended Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. My majors included biology and psychology. I was also a member of the Luther College Track and Field team.Luther College was an excellent experience overall!
A couple years ago I married my best friend, Kristin, and this fall will mark our second anniversary. We live south of Oxford on the old Brack homestead. Our past year has been busy remodeling the old ranch house. Kristin and I absolutely love sitting on our west deck watching the sunsets. We do not have children yet, but we do have a little silky terrier, Holly, who is pretty much our little child. I think we will add to our family in the next few years.
Brian Burkhardt
vocal
music
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/cca-high-school-vocal-music/
Brian Burkhardt is the Director of Vocal Music at CCA Schools. A graduate of Wausau West High School (WI) he went on to earn his B.A. from Luther College (Decorah, IA) in vocal and instrumental (trumpet) music education. Mr. Burkhardt went on to graduate study at the University of Iowa where he completed his M.A. in Music with an emphasis in vocal performance and choral conducting.
Mr. Burkhardt began his teaching career at HLV Schools in Victor, IA where he was the K-12 general and vocal music director. He also directed the yearly musical productions at HLV and CCA. During the summer months he worked as the Assistant Director of Operations for the American Institute of Music Studies (AIMS) program in Graz, Austria.
Mr. Burkhardt lives in Coralville with his wonderful wife, Kerri, and two terrific children Brandon and Karissa. When he is not busy with Scouting, coaching or watching his children's athletic or dance events, he remains a frequent performer and conductor in the professional music world.
Mary Burgher
family & consumer sciences
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/ccahs-mrs-burgher---family-consumer-sciences/home
My name is Mary Burgher. I’m a Family and Consumer Science teacher at both Clear Creak Amana High School and Middle School. I spend my mornings teaching at the high school and afternoons at the middle school. I am beginning my 8th year teaching in the CCA School District. I graduated from Amana High School and received my bachelor of science degree from Iowa State University in 1973.
My first teaching position took me halfway round the world to Adelaide, South Australia. I spend 3 ½ years teaching home economics followed by four months traveling throughout Asia and Europe before returning home to Amana. I’ve also enjoyed many years working as a home economist for Amana Refrigeration.
I am married to my best friend Tom. We reside in East Amana. We’ve been blessed with two great children - Liesl and Fritz. Both graduated from CCA High School. Liesl recently graduated from Coe College with a degree in Elementary Education. Fritz is attending Northwestern University majoring in Journalism and Political Science. I always look forward to the time when we’re all together. In my free time I enjoy cooking, sewing, biking, and watching movies.
Inge Cerio
German
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/calendar/
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/frau-german-ii/
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/german-ii/
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/german-iii/
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/german-i/
My name is Inge Cerio. I am a native of Germany and I have taught German for 15 years.
Five years in northeast Iowa and ten years at Clear Creek Amana high school.
In addition, I have been working with children and young adults in various capacities for over 35 years. These involvements include: Co-sponsor of the Big Brother-Big Sister Program, teaching religious education, the Rotary Student Exchange program, the German American Partnership Program and Up With People. We have housed students from many parts of the world, Australia, Germany and France.
In addition, I have been involved in many volunteer activities in our community.
I received my education in Germany and earned my B.A. in German education from the University of Northern Iowa. I have continued my professional studies throughout these years as to keep my certification current.
My husband Andy and I have 3 children and 4 grandchildren. We have a great time when we can get together, which is not often due to extended distances.
I have many interests; some of my favorites include traveling, reading, biking, walking, and gardening.
Lauren Christensen
guidance/attendance secretary
My name is Lauren Christensen. I am entering my 3rd year as the Attendance/Guidance Secretary at Clear Creek Amana High School. I graduated high school from Soldotna High school in Soldotna, Alaska and went on to received my B.A. in Communications from Wartburg College, but also attended Cornell College for 2 years where I had the opportunity to play college volleyball and basketball.
I currently live in Coralville with my boyfriend Zach, who is finishing up has pharmacy degree, and our dog Tula. We are both avid Hawkeye and Green Bay Packer's fans and spend a lot of our time watching sports, hanging out with our friends, or visiting family around the midwest.
Jackie Clubb
special education
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/clubb-s-class/
My name is Jackie Clubb. I am one of the special education teachers for grades 9-12, as well as the assistant high school volleyball coach. I grew up in Williamsburg and graduated from high school there. After graduating from Williamsburg I earned a para-legal/liberal arts degree at Kirkwood Community College. My first position within CCA was as a para-educator at Clear Creek Amana Middle School and coaching middle school volleyball. I returned to school to pursue my teaching license at Coe College in Cedar Rapids and received a teaching license in Elementary Education with endorsements in reading and language arts. I am currently attending Morningside College to finish up my Instructional Strategies 1 endorsement.
This is my third year at Clear Creek Amana High School and I enjoy working with the students and staff everyday, as well as spending my time coaching volleyball. Last year we tied for WaMaC Division Champions, and I am looking forward to another successful year.
When I am not teaching I am spending time with my family. I have an eight year old niece, and two nephews ages six and one. They keep me busy and I love watching them grow up. I also enjoy playing golf with my boyfriend Kyle (of six years) and following Iowa Hawkeye Athletics.
Sarah Coleman
health, online learning coordinator, prom
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/colemanhealth/
Hi! My name is Sarah Coleman. I have spent the past 5 years here at Clear Creek Amana High School. I came to Clear Creek Amana as an aide, splitting my time between North Bend and the High School. When the decision was made to add an Online Learning Component, I was asked to take on the role of overseeing that program full time at the High School. Having a great time working in this school district, I decided to pursue my teaching certificate through the University of Iowa. As of this past school year, I was granted the opportunity to teach the Health classes to the 10th graders in our district.
I began my post-secondary education at a community college right after high school, focusing on an Associate’s in Nursing. I pursued a degree in Community Health Education, specializing in Maternal/Child Health from Illinois State University, graduating Eta Sigma Gamman. I worked for several hospitals and then a public health department before moving to Iowa in 2003 with my family.
My husband Todd, a Speech Language Pathologist; and I have two awesome children: J.C. (11), and Trinity (9). We love to explore the outdoors and all of the offerings that our community has to offer us. We can often be found at baseball and softball games in the spring/summer or tromping around hiking, visiting museums and religiously watching football (high school, college and NFL) during the fall.
Noel Dalmasso
Spanish, National
Honor
Society
http://spanish.ccaschools.org
My name is Noel Dalmasso. I have been in the education field for 5 years. This will be my second year teaching Spanish I and II at Clear Creek Amana High School. I am also the sponsor of the National Honor Society and Win With Wellness groups. NHS website- nhs.ccaschools.org
WWW website- wellness.ccaschools.org
I grew up in Bettendorf, IA and graduated from Bettendorf High School. I then attended The University of Iowa where I graduated with a major in Spanish and secondary education. In 2009 I earned my master’s degree in education from Graceland University.
I live in North Libety with my wonderful husband, David, beautiful daughter, Grace, and lively dog, Moses. In my free time I enjoy being with family and friends, listening to music, and cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes.
I love teaching Spanish. I work hard each school year to get to know my students and to help them succeed with both the Spanish language, and in school in general. I look forward to an awesome year!
Please contact me at noeldalmasso@ccaschools if you have any questions or concerns. And please visit my webpage at https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/vivaespanol/ to check out what is happening in Spanish I and II.
Lonnie Dayton
special education
My name is Lonnie Dayton. This is my 7th year of teaching at Clear Creek Amana High School. I spent most of my youth in Richmond, Iowa and graduated from Mid-Prairie High School in 1992. I spent two years at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa before transferring to the University of Iowa to finish my coursework. I graduated from the U of I in May of 1997 with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. After substitute teaching in several Iowa City area schools for a number of years, I returned to education at Morningside College, in order to acquire a Special Education Instructional Strategist 1 endorsement for grades 5-12.
Outside of school, I enjoy playing disc golf, biking and spending time with my family.
Irene Friend
special education
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/ms-friend/
My name is Irene Friend, and I have been teaching at CCA for 11 years. I began my career in education as an English teacher, but discovered that special education held greater satisfaction for me. I was born and raised in New York to the endless delight of students who can’t get enough of my accent! I have also lived in Los Angeles and Massachusetts, but have long considered Iowa home. My husband, Jim, is the in-house counsel for a labor union, and we share our home with 3 cats and 2 dogs. My hobbies include reading, crossword puzzles, and going on walks with my dogs.
Alissa Hansen
English 11, reading strategist, yearbook
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/mrshansen/
Alissa Hansen here. The 2012-2013 school year will be my third year at CCA and my third year in the teaching profession. I teach English 11, reading strategies, and am the yearbook adviser for the Clipper Yearbook. These three subject areas are a trifecta of the passions in my life.
Before entering the field of teaching, I earned my B.A. in journalism and anthropology from The University of Iowa, where I was also an arts and entertainment reporter for The Daily Iowan. From this experience, I became editor and publisher of local arts and culture magazine, Little Village. I later entered the Master in the Art of Teaching program at the UI and graduated with my M.A.T. in English education with endorsements in reading and journalism. During the program, I developed my teaching philosophies around writing as a creative and therapeutic process, student-based learning, differentiation, using literature to explore history and identity, and embracing literacy as a tool kit, which can empower every student, in every classroom. Teaching is my love, and I cannot imagine doing anything else, except for becoming a parent!
My husband, Wade, and I just had our first son, Rhys Michel, on April 22, 2012. He is growing fast and it is a pleasure to watch him bloom before our very eyes! We are both enjoying the joys of parenthood; it keeps us plenty busy.
My husband is an electromechanical engineer at John Deere. My husband and I love to be outdoors when we can and look forward to the time when Rhys is old enough to enjoy it as much as we do. I love bike riding, swimming, gardening, taking our three dogs for a walk, reading, writing, watching movies, and spending time with my family.
Mary Pat Hanson-Karstens
art,
SAFE,
Art
Club
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/clear-creek-amana-visual-arts/
I am Mary Pat Hanson-Karstens, although the students call me Ms. Hanson. The 2012-13 school year will be my 26th year of teaching in the CCA district. When I started at Clear Creek H.S. I only taught two high school classes and travelled to the elementary as well. We now offer 16 active art classes, which I have been involved in developing and am totally invested in this program. I love the students, staff and families of CCA. I advise two clubs at school: Art Club and SAFE (Students Acting For the Environment).
I was raised outside of Parnell, Iowa and graduated from Williamsburg HS. Although I cheer for my family members still playing for the Raiders, my colors are now blue and white. I did my undergraduate work at Buena Vista College and received my Masters in Art Education from the University of Iowa.
My husband Jeremy and I live in Iowa City with our son Quinn (9). I believe so strongly in the quality of education being taught here at CCA that I open-enrolled my son into our district and he is in 4th grade at North Bend Elementary. Outside of school I spend time with my extended family, go on family bike rides, walk our black lab Bella and teach religious education. I have also coached my son's little league and basketball teams and am making my first attempt at coaching flag football with my husband this fall. I am an Iowa Hawkeye Fan and love fall football.
This past summer I took eight CCA girls on a trip to Italy and it was fantastic. It was a wonderful, cultural experience that I will always treasure and hope to do more international travelling in the future. If you would like to learn more about my classes, art club or our Italy trip, visit my classroom site: https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/clear-creek-amana-visual-arts/
Lora Hargens
science
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/lora-hargens/
My name is Lora Hargens and I teach science at the high school. This is my first year teaching and I am excited for it to begin at Clear Creek Amana. Being one of four science teachers, my subjects will include Advanced Biology, Space Science, Environmental Science, and Applied Science. I have spent this past year completing my Student Teaching and subbing in the Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and Clear Creek Amana school districts. In December 2011, I received my B.A. in Biology education at the University of Northern Iowa.
My husband Benson and I reside in Iowa City where he is currently attending medical school at Iowa. We both enjoy running, walking, spending time with our families, and watching UNI and Iowa State athletics. We look forward to becoming a part of the Clear Creek Amana Community.
Bryn Hayes
consumer
science,
student
council
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/fcs-mrs-hayes/
Hi, my name is Bryn Hayes and I am entering my 26th year as a Family and
Consumer Sciences teacher at the high school. I teach Child Development, Clothing
I & II, Intro. to Food and Nutrition, Advanced Food and Nutrition and Intro. to
Culinary Arts. I received my B.S. from Iowa State University in FCS Education and
Adult Education. I continue to be actively involved in my professional groups and
serve on the Perkins Consortium Advisory Committee.
My wonderful husband of 19 years, Paul, is the Secondary Student Services
Facilitator for Cedar Rapids Schools. We have two active children. Our son, Bryton
is a junior at Xavier and our daughter, Brylie is an 8th grader at LaSalle. We also
have Bentley, a 2 year old Shih Tzu. In my spare time, I enjoy walking/working out,
baking and cooking (hence, the working out), traveling and spending time with my
family.
Mark Hovey
counselor/SAT
Hi, I’m the High School Guidance Counselor and have been in the district for 23 years. I am proud of the district and especially our students. They really care about each other and their community! I am originally from Maquoketa, Iowa and graduated from MCHS in 1979. I am a 1984 graduate of the University of Iowa, and taught Social Studies at United Township High School in East Moline, Illinois and at Savanna High School in Savanna, Illinois. I received a Master’s in Counselor Education in 1989 from Iowa and started at CCACSD that fall as Elementary and High School Counselor. I enjoy living in the country, fishing, reading and golf. The students bring excitement into our comunity and keep an “old dog” like me always learning new tricks!
Peter Huch
English,
drama coach
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/huch-english-9/
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/cca-drama/
Mike McCue
business
split my time between the Middle School and the High School teaching all the Business classes. My after school activities include officiating football games, basketball games, coaching 7th grade boys basketball and 8th grade girls basketball.
After graduating from Colorado State University in Fort Collins, I spent 5 years teaching and coaching before starting my own retail apparel business, Michael J’s. Once I completed 20 years in this business, I had the opportunity to work with Goodwill Industries, managed a regional shopping center, and spent time in the insurance industry.
I felt this experience should be put to good use, so I returned to teaching and this is my fifth year at Clear Creek Amana. My wife, Kathy, is also a teacher. We have four children, Sarah, Patrick, Tim, and Matt. Please feel free to contact me anytime at mikemccue@ccaschools.org or by phone, 319-545-2361, ext 261.
Julie Meister
Spanish
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/cca-spanish-meister/home
My name is Julie Meister and I am entering my 23rd year teaching Spanish at CCA. I received my BA from The University of Iowa in Secondary Education / Spanish and my MA from Graceland University in Collaborative Learning and Teaching. Over the years I have enjoyed participating in study programs in Spain, Costa Rica, Panama and Cuba. Traveling has always been a passion of mine, and so far I have been lucky enough to travel to half of the 21 Spanish-speaking countries as well as much of Europe, Canada and the US. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends, as well as reading, gardening, and cooking.
Mark Moody
principal
My name is Mark Moody. I am entering my 20th year in world of education. This will be my third year as the high school principal here at Clear Creek Amana. Previous to becoming principal I taught English for two years and then served as the assistant principal for 2 years. Before coming to CCA I taught and coached at Des Moines Lincoln, St. Ambrose University, Bettendorf Middle School, Davenport Assumption, and West High School. My teaching duties have included teaching various English courses to grades 7-12. I have also spent time instructing in the special education setting. My coaching experience includes football at the high school and college level, wrestling, and track.
I received my B.A. in English education at the secondary level along with a minor in psychology and my coaching endorsement From St. Ambrose University. After 5 years in the classroom I returned to St. Ambrose and graduate school and received my M.A. in Special Education. Upon completion I returned to the classroom and had the opportunity to teach English and work in the special education setting. During that time I earned my administrative licensure through Drake University.
My wife Beth and I have three fantastic young children: Keith 5, Michael, 3 and Maggie 1. We enjoy outdoor activities such as working in the yard & garden, visiting the fossil gorge & raptor center, fishing, and reading together. Beth is an English teacher at City High School and does a great job managing our busy days.
Kristen Morlan
English
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/ms-morlan-s-site/
I am Kristen Morlan and I teach high school language arts. I am starting my 33rd year as a teacher at CCA. Growing up in Maquoketa, Iowa and Keokuk, Iowa, I graduated from Keokuk High School in 1976.
I graduated from the University of Iowa in 1980 with a BA in English Education. I have taught at Clear Creek Amana High School ever since I graduated from college! I have taught a variety of English classes, and am currently teaching AP English literature and composition, English 12, and creative writing. I also assist with the yearbook.
I coached cheerleading and dance team for over 20 years. Even though I stopped coaching cheer and dance, I still work with cheerleading programs throughout the state as a member of the Iowa Cheerleading Coaches Association Board of Directors, where I have served as all-state director, competition director, vice-president, president, and trustee. Currently I coach the academic decathlon team, entering my 5th year in that role.
I am blessed with a wonderful family! My daughter Emily is a freshman at Kirkwood, my other daughter Kassie is a junior at CCA, and my son Mitchell is an eighth grader at CCA. We live with a dog-hating cat named Noodle, and a cat-loving lab named Jack.
Brad
Muhlenbruck
science
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/mr-muhlenbruck-s-science
Hello, my name is Brad Muhlenbruck. I am currently in my 24th year of teaching at CCA and my 29th year overall. After graduating from UNI in 1984 with majors in Earth Science and General Science, I began my teaching career at Belmont High School in Wisconsin. I taught Earth Science, Physical Science, Chemistry and Physics at Belmont, and also spent 2 years as an assistant basketball coach and 3 years as the boys and girls track coach. After spending 4 years at Belmont I moved to Clinton Iowa for a year. While at Clinton I taught Physics and General Science. In 1989 I was fortunate enough to land a position as science teacher at Clear Creek High School and been here ever since.
Over the years I have had the good fortune to meet a number of tremendous people at CCA, both students and faculty. I currently teach Physics, Chemistry and Chem II, but have also taught Physical Science, Astronomy and Applied Science during my time here. Needless to say I have witnessed many changes over the years, most notably the growth we have seen in our district. When I first started there were around 150 kids in the entire high school whereas today that would be the size of a typical class.
My wife Gretchen and I live in Middle Amana along with our son Reiner and our two cats Ty and Carl. During my spare time I enjoy spending time on the golf course or going to Hawkeye football games. We also like to spend time at the Lake of the Ozarks. Of course our son Reiner, who attends elementary school in Amana, keeps us busy with games, fishing and any other activities that involve the outdoors.
Gretchen Muhlenbruck
social studies
https://sites.google.com/site/mrsmuhlenbrucksssswebsite/
My name is Gretchen Muhlenbruck. I have been teaching for 14 years, 11 of which have been at Clear Creek Amana High School. I started my journey at Williamsburg Junior/Senior High School in 1998 where I taught American history and at-risk. I also was the junior high volleyball coach and high school assistant track coach. However, I have always been a Clipper at heart, as I graduated from CCA in 1993 and coached Clipper volleyball and softball in the mid to late 1990s. In 1998, I became the 7th grade softball coach for several years. I have worn a few hats at CCA over the last 11 years. I taught special education and at-risk with a couple classes of American history and Psychology mixed in. For the last three years I have taught a class titled, Survey of Social Studies to freshmen. This class means a lot to me because I created it! It is a mix of a little geography, psychology, sociology and a lot of world history. It has been great fun coming up with ways to present world history in a present day, real world context.
I received my B.A. in Psychology at the University of Iowa in 1998. I simultaneously received my secondary teaching certification and along with Psychology can teach world geography, American history and world history. During college I spent some time volunteering in a special education classroom at CCA.
I have a wonderful husband, Brad, and one son, Reiner. Brad also teaches at the high school. This can make for some interesting car rides to school! We never run out of things to discuss. Reiner will be entering Kindergarten in the fall (2012) and plays tee-ball in the Oxford league for the Ace Auto Recyclers. I am a kid at heart, so when I say I enjoy rollerblading and playing outside, I am not kidding. I spend my time tending my flowers and plants, exercising, lifting weights, golfing, and sitting on my huge front porch with my palm trees watching my son play with his cousins. I am also a certified personal trainer. My dream is to travel the US in the summer and see as many historical sites as possible, along with state parks and other natural features.
I enjoy my job at CCA and plan to stay until I am old and gray! Once a Clipper, always a Clipper!
Steve Ottoson
P.E.
My name is Steve Ottoson and I am the Physical Education teacher at Clear Creek Amana. This will be my 37th year in this district. I started out at Amana High School right out of college and taught K-12 PE and also served as Athletic Director for 8 years. When the schools merged, I taught middle school PE and Health for 6 years. In 1997 I moved to the high school to teach PE and have been there ever since. I was the head boys basketball coach at Amana High School for 13 years before taking the Marion High School coaching position for 6 years. When the CCA coaching position opened up in 1995 I accepted it and have been there ever since. I graduated from Bowen High School in Chicago in 1972. I attended Coe College and received my Bachelor of Science in 1976. I have 2 daughters who are located in the Des Moines area. I also have 2 wonderful grandsons ages 6 and 3. My wife Chris and I have been married for 12 years. She works at Rockwell Collins where she is a senior marketing analyst. We enjoy being outside and spending time at the Lake of the Ozarks boating and relaxing.
Mackenzie O’Connor
English 10
http://ccaenglish10.wordpress.com/
English 11
http://ccaenglish11.wordpress.com/
My name is Mackenzie O’Connor and this fall I will begin my first year of teaching. I’m thrilled to start my career at Clear Creek Amana where I will teach English 10 and English 11 in addition to a Talented and Gifted class at the Middle School. I graduated in December from the University of Iowa with a Bachelors of Arts in English and Education. Furthermore, I have both a Reading and a Talented and Gifted Endorsement. Before coming to CCA, I completed a long-term substitute position at Washington High School and student-taught at Kennedy High School both in Cedar Rapids.
Outside of school, I enjoy working with a group of adult English language learners in West Liberty, Iowa. I love to read and discuss all literature genres and engage in conversations about history and politics. In the future, I hope to travel more extensively both domestically and internationally. Additionally, I would like to return to school to pursue a graduate degree in education or literacy.
I love spending time with my wonderful family, friends, and two-year old golden retriever, Ruby. I come from a long-line of educators – education is practically the family business. I am delighted to continue my long-standing family tradition of teaching at Clear Creek Amana!
Mike Potter
facilitator
My career in education began in 1998 at Beckman High School in Dyersville, IA. After two years there, I taught for one year at Williamsburg High School. In 2001, I settled at CCA, teaching English 9 and Journalism. I’ve taught various courses in the Language Arts at all three stops, but 9th graders were the students I worked with best.
I have also coached baseball and basketball during my teaching career. I was the head baseball coach here at CCA from 2000-2008. I continue to work with Clipper Basketball as an assistant varsity coach for Mr. Ottoson.
I attended the University of Iowa to obtain my undergraduate (’98) and master’s degree (’10). I transitioned from teaching to administration in 2008, leaving CCAHS to work at North Bend Elementary. I returned to the high school the following year and have worked with Mr. Moody for three years.
I’m married to a very patient wife (Cassie) and have two wacky kids (5 year old Sophie and 1 year old Jake). We enjoying going to the park and watching the kids play. Sophie plays soccer and t-ball and Jake likes banging his head on things (just like his dad).
Dan
Scheetz
math
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/algebra-2/
Hi. My name is Dan Scheetz. I am a 1972 graduate of Clear Creek High School. I grew up on a farm near Cosgrove. I met my wife, Patty, at the University of Northern Iowa. We were married in 1977 and have three adult sons, who all were graduates of CCA.
I have been teaching at the secondary level on and off for 26 years. My first teaching job was at LDF Community Schools where I was a P.E. and math teacher, and was an assistant coach in football and girls’ track. After 2 years at LDF, we spent the next 5 years at Pekin Community Schools where I taught 7th grade mathematics through pre-calculus. At Pekin, I was an assistant football coach and head boys’ basketball coach. It was then off to North Scott Community Schools to get a taste of what a big school was like. A year later, my brother, wife, and I bought our family farm. I farmed full time for the next 10 years, but I was fortunately able to return to education in 1993 at Clear Creek Amana. For the last 18 years I have taught various math classes at CCA. During that time, I especially enjoyed coaching our 3 sons in tee-ball, little league, Babe-Ruth, and AAU basketball.
Patty and I are looking forward to retirement sometime in the not too distant future. In retirement, we will still have the family farm to keep us busy. We also enjoy traveling and spending time with our families, and someday plan to spoil some grandchildren.
Patty
Scheetz
math
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/ccahs-geometry/
Hi. My name is Patty Scheetz. I grew up on a farm south of Riverside and attended high school in Washington, Iowa. My college experience took me to the University of Northern Iowa, where I met my husband, Dan. We were married in 1977 and raised three sons: Nicholas, Brett, and Trey…all CCA grads. Nick is currently teaching Chemistry in Washington. Brett is working for IBM in Rochester, Minnesota. Trey is employed by Scheels Sporting Goods in Jordan Creek Mall of West Des Moines. We loved running with the boys as they grew up and are looking forward to all future family activities.
I have had the opportunity to teach at all three grade levels in the Clear Creek Amana School District. My middle school math years in Cosgrove began in 1984. Next the merging with Amana enabled me to teach fourth grade at Oxford Elementary for five years. Finally, I moved into a high school math position in 1995 where I have since taught some combination of Algebra, Business Math, or Geometry.
Previous to teaching at CCA, I also taught physical education at Marshalltown Area Catholic Schools, math, PE, and religion at Keota-Harper Catholic Schools, and third grade at Cardinal Community Schools. Each position has provided personal and professional gratification.
My spare time pursuits often involve family and friends, including Dan’s siblings and my siblings. There is always an upcoming fun time, planned or spontaneous. I also enjoy homemaking, refinishing furniture, attending sports events, and traveling.
Teri
math
https://sites.google.com/site/mrsschultejansclasses/
My name is Teri Schultejans. I have been married to my husband Alex since June 2011. This will be my 8th year teaching math at Clear Creek Amana and my 7th year as assistant girls track coach. Before coming to CCA, I taught and coached track in Illinois for a year. I currently teach Elementary Algebra II, Statistics, and Trigonometry.
I am a Clipper through and through. I graduated from Clear Creek Amana in 1999. I went on to Coe College in Cedar Rapids where I competed in track and pursued my secondary education and mathematics degrees. I graduated in 2003. I earned a Masters Degree in Collaborative Learning and Teaching from Graceland University in 2006.
This fall my husband and I welcomed our first child, Michael. He was born 10.5 weeks early on September 4th and spent 8 weeks in the NICU at the University of Iowa. He weighed only 2 lbs 14 oz when he was born, but has always been a happy, healthy little man. We brought him home on Halloween and he continues to amaze us by how quickly he is growing and catching up to his peers.
Michelle Staudt
special education
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/clear-creek-amana-credit-recovery-program/
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/english-credit-recovery/
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/learningstrategies-staudt/
My name is Michelle Staudt. The 2012-2013 school year will be my 3rd year of teaching at CCA, but will be my 5th year as a CCA employee. I was also fortunate enough to have done my student teaching at CCA with Mrs. Yanecek when she was teaching English 10. So, my teaching roots run deep at CCA.
I am currently working with 13 students who have an IEP and 11 At-Risk students. I also was able to chaperone the CCA German trip to East Germany in March of 2011 and will be headed back with another group of students in March of 2013.
I am originally from Parnell, Iowa and graduated from Williamsburg High School in 2000. I graduated from the University of Iowa in 2004 with degrees in English and German. I then was accepted into the Secondary English Education program at the U of Iowa, where I earned my teaching license with endorsements in Reading and English in 2007. I am currently working on earning my Masters in Special Education from Morningside College.
In 2009, I married Aaron Staudt. 2011 was an exciting year for us. In February of that year we opened Top Dog Automotive in Williamsburg and Aaron has been busy ever since. We also welcomed our daughter, Allison, into the world on September 3rd, 2011. The three of us share our home with two lovable pit bulls and 5 cats. We are all very proud to be a part of the Clipper family.
Erin Thompson
English
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/thompsonenglish10/
My name is Erin Thompson. I have been teaching for over ten years and have been at Clear
Creek Amana since 2007. Prior to teaching at CCA, I taught in Illinois, Missouri and in Grundy
Center and Traer, Iowa. Currently, I teach English 10, Advance Placement Language &
Composition for juniors, Dramatic Acting, and Dramatic Reading.
I received my BA in English at Eastern Illinois University in 2001 with a minor in Speech
Communication and Theater. In addition, I received my MA in preK-12 Administration from the
University of Northern Iowa in 2010.
I have been married to my wonderful husband, Greg for 11 years and we have three children:
Maxwell, 7; William, 6; and Samuel, 2. We enjoy traveling as a family and made it to
Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri and California this summer. Greg and I can be found
swimming with the fish when we have time away from our children. We were PADI certified in
Matthew Trosky
Online Learning Teacher /At-Risk Teacher
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/troskysclass/
My name is Matt Trosky. This is my first year here at Clear Creek Amana. I was born and raised in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. I graduated from Prairie High School in 2006. I spent two years at the University of Wisconsin Platteville where I majored in Business. I transferred to Mount Mercy University in the fall of 2008. I graduated in May 2011 with a degree in History, and Secondary Education. I spent my first year as a Para-Educator at the College Community School District in a Level II-III Behavior Disorder Special Education classroom. Currently I am coaching high school football at CCA, and partnering with another teacher as a Student Council sponsor. My wife, Katie, and son Tysenn, are excited to be a part of the great Clipper tradition.
Marna Vogt
transition services
https://sites.google.com/site/ccatransitionservices/
2012-2013 will be my 18th year as a classroom teacher. This year begins my third year as transition teacher for the Clear Creek Amana school district. The program is housed in the building between the middle school and high school. I work with students who need skill training in the area of daily living and employability. I earned my MA in special education from The University of Northern Iowa. I continued my education to have completed several special education endorsements. I am married and have two sons. We live on an acreage outside of Ladora, Iowa in a 100 year old home. Rehabilitating our home and spending time with the family are my hobbies. For more information of what is going on in the program. Visit the Clear Creek Amana Transitional Services web site.
James
social
studies
http://coachjimwhite.weebly.com
Hi, my name is Jim White and this will be my 26th year teaching and coaching at Clear Creek Amana High School.
I currently teach Advanced PE which is a fitness and weight lifting course. I taught social studies for my first 20 years with the district and served as the Athletics Director for 10 years as well. I currently coach JH track and am the Head Varsity Softball Coach. I have served as the Head Coach in JH Softball, JH Football, HS Football, HS Wrestling, HS Baseball, and served as an assistant for girls track.
I grew up in the Iowa City area but graduated from Burlington High School in 1982. I graduated from Cornell College in 1987. I also coached at Cornell College in the baseball program for a few years before my duties at Clear Creek Amana became too extensive to continue.
I am married to an energetic and talented wife, Erin. Erin also works at the Clear Creek Amana School District in a variety of roles. We have two amazing sons, Brett (age 7) and Brady (age 5). Both boys are also in the district school system.
I am an avid outdoorsman.
I am passionate about quite a few things in life including my family, coaching, and choosing to be a positive difference maker in kid's lives.
Meredith Whitmer
associate
https://sites.google.com/a/ccaschools.org/whitmer/
Hello, my name is Meredith Whitmer. I am very excited to say that this is my first year as a teacher in the CCA district. I have been an associate at the CCA Middle School for the past two years. I received my bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa in Elementary Education and a minor in Special Education. I taught in the Muscatine school district for two years in a special education setting. I then took a hiatus from teaching to pursue another career path but was always missing the classroom. After having my daughter, I realized just how much I missed teaching and came back into the teaching world as an associate. I am currently getting my Strategist II endorsement that will lead into my masters in Special Education from the University of Northern Iowa.
When I’m not teaching, my husband, Jessie and I are chasing down our two children, Kadence 3 and Ashur 10 months. We enjoy the outdoors, traveling, and spending time with our family and friends. I am excited to be a part of the CCA district and look forward to the following year!!
Jan
librarian, media coordinator
My name is Jan Yanecek. I have been in this district for 30 years. Before becoming the high school teacher-librarian 5 years ago, I taught speech, writing and literature, mainly to sophomores. For eight years I directed the speech and drama programs.
I have always enjoyed reading, which is one reason that I enjoy being in the library so much. When I started my Master’s degree in Library Science at the University of Iowa in 1992, technology was just beginning to become part of everyday life. “You’ve got mail” was the phrase of the day! Today technology has become routine and the youngest of students knows as much as the older ones use to and sometimes more. I truly love technology and the possibilities it brings. How much more exciting it is to write and research and learn!
My personal life has changed wonderfully with the addition of our first grandchild. My husband, Dave, has been enjoying his retirement and is looking forward to me joining him soon. I love reading on my Nook, gardening and traveling. I hope one day to take a trip to Greece.
Kristie Yoder
art
I am Kristie Yoder and have been involved in educating, coaching and working with kids the better part of 40 years and am looking forward to doing what I did when my career began, an art teacher. I am teaching drawing/painting along with ceramics at the high school level.
My education includes Mt Mercy University where I earned a BA in art and education, then UNI where I received my coaching endorsement, and Drake University where I earned my master’s in Community Counseling. Along with teaching art half time, I work in a private practice as a family and marriage counselor.
In between my educational endeavors, I have raised three amazing young adults; Sam is a working artist in Chicago, Ellie is a senior at ISU studying event management, and Hannah is a psychology major at UNI. My husband Bill and I live in Middle Amana where we are restoring and landscaping our 150 year-old home.
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