Thomas Adams (Chemistry), B.S., Carleton College. Thomas is a Seattle Academy alumnus, graduating in 2000 earning National Merit Scholar status with honors for outstanding achievement in French and music. He continued his relationship with Seattle Academy after graduation, assisting with vocal shows. Fluent in French and Serbo-Croatian, Thomas adds a wealth of experience to the Seattle Academy community through his accomplishments in music, science, mathematics, foreign language instruction, distance running, ultimate Frisbee, and leading outdoor trips.
Mercy Adetoye (Science) – B.S., M.S., University of Wyoming. Mercy brings extensive hands-on lab experience to the classroom. She has been a Biology Lab Instructor and Physiology Teaching Assistant at the University of Wyoming and spent three months as a research assistant at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. She was a Division 1 forward and captain of the soccer team at the University of Wyoming as well as soccer coach for the Laramie Soccer Association.
Erin Aitchison (Assistant Athletic Director; Coach), B.A., Occidental College. A 1998 Seattle Academy graduate, Erin anchored the 4×400 relay team during her senior year capturing the state championship and initiating a long history of track and field excellence for the school that continues to this day. Upon graduating from Occidental College, Erin was the college’s Assistant Track and Field Coach for three years. She then returned to Seattle and became an associate teacher and teaching assistant at The Evergreen School. At Evergreen, she taught publishing, humanities research, and fine arts.
Sarah Akhtar (Learning Support), B.A., Amherst College. Sarah has taught for over ten years in both public and private schools. Most recently she taught Upper School American Literature at Beaver Country Day School in Chestnut Hill, MA. She has also worked as a tutor, AP Test Prep Presenter, and Yoga teacher and was awarded the First Year Teacher of Excellence Award in Springfield, MA, in 2006. Sarah graduated magna cum laude in English and Education.
Gary Anderson (Mathematics Department Chair), B.A. and B.S., University of Washington; M.I.T., Seattle University. A nationally recognized innovator in the application of the cutting-edge learning platform Moodle, Gary adds another impressive honor to his dossier, having been named to the select, national, NAIS Teachers of the Future program, along with Seattle Academy science teacher Dexter Chapin. Among his countless Seattle Academy accomplishments, Gary has been involved in the implementation of the advanced Mathematica software into Seattle Academy’s high school curriculum and teaches a course that allows students to earn college credit for their high school work in Calculus.
Alicia Balle (11th Grade Coordinator; English), B.A., Western Washington University; M.A., Grand Canyon University. Alicia has experience as both a teacher and an administrator. She has worked at Lake Washington High School, Redmond Junior High and High School, and Holy Names Academy, serving in multiple roles including teacher, department chair, content team leader, and administrator. She graduated magna cum laude from the Woodring College of Education at Western Washington University.
Jacque Beckley (Mathematics), B.S., Vanderbilt University. Jacque has worked for a number of schools including Lake Forest Academy (IL), Centreville High School (VA), and Choate Rosemary School (CT), as well as at Northwestern University and Vanderbilt University. She has also served as a private tutor and has coached track, cross country, and dance.
Halsey Bell (Assist. Head of Middle School; Outdoor and Travel Program Director), B.A., Duke University; M.A., University of Montana; Ph.D., University of Washington. Having taught history at many levels, Halsey believes that education merely starts in the classroom. “I believe in the complete education,” he says. “And, there is an awesome energy derived from being around adolescents.” Halsey has led outdoor educational trips to Asia, is a certified Wilderness First Responder, and attended the National Outdoors Leadership School. Halsey was recently named to a national historians’ education committee, one of only two teachers in the country to sit on the committee.
Mike Bernier (Physical Education Department Chair; Coach), B.S., Syracuse University; M.H.S.E., University of Florida. Mike was on the Seattle Academy P.E./coaching team for several years before moving to the Auburn and Tahoma school districts, creating and directing a youth sports development agency in Auburn. He returned to Seattle Academy in 2006 to rejoin the school’s athletics efforts. His rich background includes coaching numerous select soccer teams and track teams and coordinating youth sports programs around the Puget Sound. Prior to arriving in Seattle, he performed similar duties in Wisconsin, Florida, and Virginia.
Mary Berry (Counselor; Learning Support), B.A., Texas Tech University. A Washington State Registered Counselor, Mary brings over two decades of experience as a school district student and family advocate. Her work with adolescents and parents also includes more than 7 years coordinating remediation and special education programs in a variety of locales including the Vashon Island School District.
Stephanie Bloom (Spanish), B.A., M.A., University of Washington. Stephanie taught at Lakeside School and was also Assistant Director at Instituto Cultural Oaxaca in Mexico prior to coming to Seattle Academy. She also taught Spanish at her alma mater, the University of Washington. Stephanie calls her work in Mexico an “invaluable experience, through which I continued learning about Mexican people, culture, and the Spanish language. These experiences allow me to speak about the Latino culture from first-hand knowledge.”
George Burpee (Middle School Head), B.A., Bowdoin College; M.A., Pace University. George became Head of Middle School in 2004 after several years as a Seattle Academy sixth grade English, writing lab, and Latin teacher, as well as serving as Middle School Dean of Students. Prior to coming to Seattle Academy, George taught literature, writing, and American history at The Browning School in New York. He also developed curricula for literature and history at The Legacy School for Integrated Studies in New York. George plays trumpet and piano and composes for both; his athletic interests include cycling, sailing, and lacrosse.
Vicki Butler (Director of Academic Technology), B.Ed., M.A., Ph.D. Candidate, Seattle University; Washington State certification. Vicki heads the implementation process of the school’s technology program into the classroom. Vicki taught seventh and eighth grade classes for 10 years at Villa Academy, before coming to Seattle Academy to teach sixth-grade history several years ago. She has worked extensively with the Archdiocese of Seattle, teaching and coordinating workshops and seminars on technology and global awareness.
Emily Carmichael (French), B.A., Brown University; M.A., New York University; M.A., Middlebury College. Emily has taught French at a number of institutions including the Washington Academy of Languages at Seattle Pacific University, Alliance Francaise de Seattle, French-American School of Puget Sound, Seattle Languages International, and Epitech in Paris. She has also worked as an intern for The Museum of Jewish History (NY), as a publisher’s representative for Cengage Learning (NY), and a grant writer for International Center of Photography (NY). She also enjoys singing and reading and interviews high school applicants for Brown University.
Dexter Chapin (Science; Sustainability), B.A., Stanford University; M.A., Ph.D., University of Maryland. Along with math department head Gary Anderson, Dexter was recently named to the select, national, NAIS Teachers of the Future program. Dexter came to Seattle Academy after serving as Dean of Science at the Ross School in East Hampton, New York. At Ross, he developed an integrated science curriculum for grades 5-12. He taught advanced placement biology at Durham Academy in Durham, North Carolina, and has also taught A.P. chemistry and cultural anthropology. Dexter is an avid photographer and outdoorsman and counts Europe, Africa, and the South Pacific among his former places of residence. In 2009-10 Dexter advised the group of seniors that developed a comprehensive sequestration prototype to offset the school’s carbon footprint.
Emily Cherkin (English), B.A., University of Washington; M.E., Lesley University. Prior to arriving at Seattle Academy, Emily taught middle school humanities at Villa Academy. She also served as substitute teacher and teaching assistant with Rainier Scholars, an intensive educational enrichment program for Seattle-area students of color. Emily currently leads a special Middle School educational initiative entitled “Owning Up,” which encourages responsibility and respect in students.
Michael Cimino (Theater), B.A., University of Cincinnati. Michael has been an author and performer for numerous productions at Seattle’s Fifth Avenue Theater. He was commissioned to create Grandma’s Attic as a musical for the Educational Outreach Series that tours Seattle Public Schools and has also toured nationally with Phantom of the Opera as a main-stage actor and road manager, arranging transportation, hotel bookings, payroll, and advertising. A veteran of over 60 theater shows, Mike is also an experienced film/television producer. He has written several original plays including last year’s Viva Bombolini, based on Robert Crichton’s The Secret of Santa Vittoria.
Rhonda Cinotto (Dance), B.A., M.F.A., University of Washington. Rhonda brings extensive professional dance experience to Seattle Academy’s dance program. Over the past several years, she has been involved with the University of Washington’s ballet, modern, and jazz dance programs, including practicum and lectures in anatomy, dance history, and composition; curriculum design; dance theory, criticism, and repertoire. She is a veteran performer, having performed with Arc Dance Productions in such pieces as Song of the Sirens, Sporadic Moments, and Return to My Adoration, while also performing countless works with the Chamber Dance Company and Spectrum Dance Theater.
Peter Clark (Science Department Chair; Coach), B.A., Colby College, M.S., Tufts University. Peter was a laboratory instructor at Tufts University prior to joining Seattle Academy’s faculty, while also teaching conservation-oriented marine courses for grade school students at the New England Aquarium. Before that, he taught biology at Brewster Academy in New Hampshire. Peter is an experienced outdoorsman and has coached high school soccer and lacrosse, as well.
Michael Claxton (Physical Education; Coach), B.S., Montana State University. Before assuming his duties as Seattle Academy’s boys’ varsity basketball team, Michael lived, taught, and played professional basketball in Germany. He also taught at the International School in Dusseldorf, Germany, and played for several professional basketball teams in Berlin, Hamburg, Hannover, and Iserlohn. Michael has been a youth supervisor for the Ruth Dykeman Children Center in Seattle and also taught middle school in Havre, Montana prior to teaching and coaching at Seattle Academy.
Tim Colvin (Associate Athletic Director) B.A., Seattle Pacific University. Tim is no stranger to the SAAS community having been a teacher for middle school and upper school as well as Athletic Director and coach from 1989-1995. He left Seattle Academy to run his own business, Northwest Caster and Equipment. He also led fundraising efforts at the Methow Valley School. He was a two-year letterman in men’s NCAA Division II soccer at SPU.
Lauri Conner (Director of Diversity; English; 12th Grade Coordinator; Coach), B.F.A., University of Kansas, M.F.A., Ph.C. Candidate, University of Washington. Lauri earned her M.F.A. in the field of creative writing. She has taught English on both the secondary and college levels and has taught a variety of writing applications, from creative to journalistic. She is a published author, in book and article formats, and is a much-requested public reader in book stores, libraries, and other public forums.
Gabe Cronin (Chemistry; “Making Things”; Coach), B.S., Brown University; M.S., Stanford University. Gabe came to Seattle Academy from The Calverton School in Huntingtown, Maryland, where he taught both middle and high school math and science, including algebra, AP calculus, chemistry, and honors physics. Gabe was also a science research assistant at both Stanford and Brown universities and worked on aircraft technology with Texas Instruments. Gabe is working, with Fred Feiertag, on the “Making Things” Program, an interdisciplinary project in Materials Science and Product Design that embraces the sciences, arts, and technology, and he also advises the Robotics Club.
Francoise Deeg-Le Gal (Foreign Language Department Chair; French; Latin), Baccalaureat from the Academie de Rennes in France; undergraduate studies at the University de Haute Bretagne and at Friedrich-Whilhelm Universitaet; M.A., University of Rochester; doctoral studies at University of Rochester. Head of the foreign language department at Overlake School in Redmond, Washington for many years, Francoise has also taught French at Bellevue Community College and worked as a translator for Microsoft.
April De Nonno (English), B.A., Hunter College; M.A., Ph.C., University of Washington. April joined Seattle Academy’s English department after teaching writing, literature, and the arts at both the University of Washington and Cornish College of the Arts. She is an oft-published and honored poet, is a Washington Poets Association board member, and an avid volunteer at Richard Hugo House. April also served on the Curriculum Revision Committee in the Humanities and Sciences Department at Cornish and credits the enthusiasm of kids as the reason she loves teaching.
Regan Falcon (French), B.A., M.A., Smith College; studied abroad in Paris. Regan spent two years teaching French at the Dana Hall School in Wellesley, Massachusetts. A creative and energetic classroom presence, Regan has high expectations for her students but also believes learning a language can be, and should be, fun. Her students are introduced to poetry, magazine articles, and short stories, even at the beginning levels of learning the language. Prior to her time at Dana Hall, she taught in the public school system in Massachusetts and, for seven consecutive summers, oversaw the accredited French Language Immersion Program at the Concordia Language Village in Bemidgji, Minnesota.
Fred Feiertag (“Making Things”), B.S., University of Washington. After teaching Middle School science at Seattle Academy for several years, Fred is now working on the Making Things Program, an interdisciplinary project in Materials Science and Product Design that embraces the sciences, arts, and technology. Fred is uniquely qualified to oversee this area; before teaching at Seattle Academy, he was a metallurgical engineer for Boeing for more than 20 years, and he co-developed a process for sintering prosthetic implants.
Lisa Feiertag (History), B.A., University of Chicago; M.A. Candidate, Western Washington University. Lisa has taught a variety of subjects including math, language arts, GED preparation, violin, and even horsemanship at several schools including Bellingham Technical College, Geneva Elementary, Pilsen School for the Arts (IL), and youth camps. In addition, her work history includes working as a paralegal for Nash Disability Law (IL), a research and planning intern for the YMCA of the USA, and the coordinator for the University of Chicago’s annual blood drive. In her spare time, she acts as a judge for the world’s largest scavenger hunt.
April Ferry (Visual Arts), B.A., Ohio University. By combining her experiences as artistic director of the Pacific Arts Center, a working visual artist, graphic designer and fashion designer, April bridges the gap between the classroom and the working world of the professional artist. Her classes build skills while promoting self-expression. Several of her students have recently attended prestigious arts institutions including Rhode Island School of Design, Art Institute of Chicago, and Kansas City Art Institute.
Tom Flood (Visual Arts; Sustainability), B.A., Western Washington University, Outstanding Fine Arts Graduate Award. Tom taught visual arts at Coyote Jr. High School and Madrona Elementary School prior to joining the Seattle Academy faculty. He has also produced numerous youth public art projects, such as the Isaiah Edward Memorial Park, Casey Family Trees, and Seattle Utility alley murals. In addition to teaching various visual arts media, Tom is an accomplished mechanic, welder, fabricator, and printmaker.
Peter Flynn (English; Coach), B.A., Yale University. Pete came to Seattle Academy after teaching English, Latin, math, and physical education for seven years at Explorer West. He also coached basketball, soccer, led outdoor education and foreign travel trips, and served as the school’s athletic director. Peter is a certified lifeguard through the American Red Cross and is also certified in wilderness first aid through the Wilderness Medical Institute. Pete started the Middle School Environmental Club helping with the school’s sustainability efforts.
Robin Gage (History), B.A., Albion College; M.E., City University. Robin was executive director for the Blue Heron Art Center on Vashon Island and was also executive director for the energy weatherization program for the Natural Resources Corporation in Minneapolis prior to coming to Seattle Academy. She elevated the South Kitsap Elementary math program by developing and implementing an enhanced curriculum to accommodate accelerated math students in sixth grade. Robin has logged thousands of travel miles over the past few years, visiting all the ancient Mogul Empire fortresses in India, trekking the Annapurna loop in Nepal, and beach-hopping in Thailand.
Natalie George (Physical Education; Coach), B.A., Seattle Pacific University. During her college days, Natalie was one of the nation’s top 1500 meter runners and one of the region’s best cross-country athletes. Natalie began coaching track and field for SAAS in 1999, preparing workouts for all track and field events and working with individual athletes to improve their skills. While coaching here, she taught pre-school for the Evergreen Children’s Association, preparing lesson plans and organizing games and activities. She was hired in 2002 as a full-time physical education teacher. She continues to coach and introduce new curriculum, such as yoga and urban fitness, to the P.E. curriculum.
Jordan Goldwarg (9th Grade Coordinator) B.A., Williams College; M.A., Tufts University. Jordan has experience teaching humanities courses on the East Coast (ME and MA) as well as being a research associate for the Sustainable Endowments Institute in Cambridge and the Equal Education Campaign in South Africa, where he also served as the Managing Director. He is the founder of the school’s Cross Country Skiing Club.
Jason Gough (College Advising; English) B.A., University of Puget Sound; M.A., University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; M.A., Breadloaf School. Jason has been teaching at the Western Reserve Academy in Hudson, Ohio, since 2007. He has taught everything from Freshman Composition to AP Literature and Composition and served as a student advisor, club advisor, and coached track, cross country, and football. He also worked in admissions at the post-secondary level at the University of Puget Sound.
Charene Gray (Counselor) B.A., University of Washington; M.E., Heritage College. From crisis response team member to test coordinator, librarian to school safety coordinator, Charene has held a variety of positions working with young adults. More recently she has been employed as a school counselor at both the middle and secondary school levels in Renton and Stanfield, Oregon.
Tom Hajduk (English), B.A., University of Puget Sound; M.E., Middlebury’s Breadloaf College. Tom taught English in Japan prior to arriving at Seattle Academy. He spent the previous five years teaching English at Charles Wright Academy in Tacoma (WA). Known simply as “Haj” to his students, Tom has also led a number of outdoor education and kayaking expeditions.
Hayden Hall (Middle School Facilitator), B.A., Antioch University. Hayden has been working with young people for more than 20 years, in capacities such as tutoring and serving as a disc jockey at school and youth events. He is a long-time volunteer for Big Brothers of King County, has coached basketball at Evergreen Junior High, and has helped special education students with math and science studies.
Mike Haykin (Director of Learning Support), B.A., Central Washington University; M.E., University of Washington. Mike heads Seattle Academy’s learning support department, which includes the Middle School Language Skills and Upper School Study Skills programs. An experienced school counselor, learning specialist, private counselor, and consultant, Mike has also been in private practice, specializing in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of learning disabilities/differences.
KC Helmeid (Music; Theatre), B.F.A., Illinois Wesleyan University/University of Washington. KC brings a vast array of theatre and music experience to Seattle Academy, having directed and/or acted in such productions as Guys and Dolls, Brigadoon, Two Gentlemen of Verona, and The Good Times Are Killing Me, among others, on both middle school and high school levels. He has taught at several Seattle-area private and public schools and has worked in the performing arts in numerous cities across the United States.
Morgan Hewitt (Learning Support) B.A., University of Washington; M.A., California State University in Sacramento; M.A., University of Wisconsin-Madison. Morgan brings over twenty years of counseling and learning support teaching to Seattle Academy, most recently as a consultant and lead tutor for the Seattle Public School District. Other interests include reading, writing, traveling, photography, and renovating old houses.
Scott Hicke (Science), B.S., Saint Joseph’s University; M.T.S., Duke University. Scott has taught at Bishop Blanchet High School, Seattle Prep, the Washington (DC) Jesuit Academy, and St. Joseph’s University (PA). He has also served as a Development Director for Jesuit Volunteer Corps International and as a Quality Improvement Coordinator for So Others Might Eat, Inc. He speaks Spanish and French and has done volunteer work in Mexico, Chile, Honduras, Jamaica, Belize, Peru, and India.
Cheryll Hidalgo (Film), B.F.A., M.F.A., School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Cheryll has put Seattle Academy’s film program on the map, with her students’ works being nominated for award upon award and being chosen for showings at prestigious national and international film festivals. Cheryll’s hands-on experience in the rapidly and constantly evolving field of art production enables her to teach students not only in film theory, but in the use of state-of-the-art equipment.
Ed Hofmann (Technical Theatre), B.F.A., State University of New York. Ed has been designing scenery and lighting in Seattle for the past ten years. His work has been seen at the AHA! Theatre, Bathhouse Theatre, Ethnic Cultural Theatre, Tacoma Little Theatre, and elsewhere. He formerly held the positions of Production Designer and Tech Director for Seattle Central Community College Drama and The Conciliation Project.
Mark Hoover (Vocal), B.A., University of the Pacific; M.A., Ph.D., University of Washington. Mark came to Seattle Academy from his position as associate director of Northwest Choirs. He has led our top-level vocal group, The Onions, to first place finishes in numerous national competitions. Several of his students have won recognition from the National Advancement for the Arts.
David Johns (Mathematics; Coach), B.A., University of California at San Diego; M.E., Seattle University. David came to Seattle Academy after several years as a math instructor at Seattle Country Day School, while also serving as their athletic director. Before that, he was a middle school computer teacher and specialist in La Jolla, California. David says, simply, “I adore teaching and coaching! I thoroughly enjoy creating enthusiastic, dynamic, and challenging lessons that engage students.”
Kathy Johnson (Librarian), B.A., M.L.S., University of Washington. Kathy has more than 20 years experience in research and information management. She has worked as the content librarian and digital archivist for Sierra On-Line and was library director for the Kelso Public Library for many years. She spent three years in Burkino Faso, West Africa, where she designed a national cultural archive. Her undergraduate degree is in anthropology and music.
Katherine Kerr (Learning Support), B.S., Wheaton College; M.S., Northern Illinois University. Previous to SAAS, Katherine served as a special education teacher at Lakeland Union High School (WI). She has also designed and implemented curriculum for outdoor educational and leadership wilderness experiences and facilitated small groups in team building and adventure challenges. She is a member of the Mountaineers and has taken numerous mountaineering courses as well as low ropes/high ropes training. She has been a board member for the Literacy Task Force of Northern Wisconsin, a member of the Philanthropic Education Organization, and has competed in the Ski-to-Sea Fundraiser for Peak 7.
Kate Kinney (History; Middle School Speech and Debate), B.S., St. John’s College; M.S., Pace University; M.S., City University of New York; M.A., University of Notre Dame. Kate taught humanities in New York City for eight years, coordinating Regis High School’s American Studies curriculum, teaching writing, and coaching the school’s debate team to first place in their league. In addition to her extensive teaching experience, she has directed numerous educational programs at St. Mark’s Cathedral in Seattle, administering all education programs and St. Mark’s Food For Shut-Ins program. A hands-on community outreach professional, she has also conducted AIDS ministry at St. Peter’s Church in New York and the Clinical Pastoral Education program at New York’s Bellevue Hospital in the AIDS and children’s wards.
Rebecca Klein (Spanish), B.A., Amherst College; M.A., Middlebury College. Rebecca came to Seattle Academy from Seattle Country Day School, where she taught levels I-III Spanish in grades 6-8. She has also taught Spanish at Northwest Yeshiva High School on Mercer Island and served an internship at the Institute of International Education in Mexico City. She currently works in the Seattle community as an ESL teacher and Spanish language tutor.
Anita Kuroiwa (Dance), B.A., M.A., Augustana College. Anita has danced, choreographed, and taught with many of the region’s major art and educational institutions, including Seattle Repertory Theater, Seattle Children’s Theater, Pacific Arts Center and Dance Studio, and Evergreen State College. She trained with, among others, the Chicago City Ballet, Hubbard Street Dance Theatre, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and Pacific Northwest Ballet. The former resident choreographer for the Paul Robeson Dance Theatre, Anita has previously been named one of Seattle’s outstanding teachers by the Seattle Times.
Lauren Lee (English; History), B.A., M.A., Occidental College. Lauren has been a coach (Girls on the Run (CA), a teacher at Destination Science (CA) and the Multicultural Summer Institute (Occidental College), and the president of Promoting Achievement for Underrepresented Students (CA). While at Island Academy in Belize, she was a mentor for high school students, a college recruitment manager, and a curriculum specialist. Most recently she served as a tutor for college students with learning disabilities at the Center for Academic Excellence. She speaks Spanish and is a rescue diver.
Sung Lee (Latin), B.S., Indiana University; M.E., Wayne State University. Before joining the Seattle Academy community, Sung was a one-on-one instructor for the Dartmoor Learning Institute in Bellevue, working with students in reading, math, English, and social studies. She taught Latin for four years at a private school in Detroit, where she also trained students in peer intervention, coached the varsity ski team, and founded and coached the snowboard team. She is particularly attracted to Seattle Academy’s combination of academic rigor and the arts.
Emily Lin (Mandarin Chinese; Technology), B.A., Tamkang University; M.E., University of Hawaii. Emily taught Chinese in an all-girls middle and high school for six years in Honolulu. Prior to that, she mentored the University of Hawaii’s College of Education faculty and students in technological applications such as PowerPoint, WebCT, video production, Word, and electronic portfolios, while also assisting them with the integration of technology into the curriculum. Emily’s primary role at Seattle Academy is teaching Mandarin Chinese; however, she is also an experienced technology instructor and a valued contributor to Seattle Academy’s state-of-the-art technology curriculum.
Caitlin Lyons (English), B.A., Colgate University; M.A., University of Washington. Caitlin’s teaching experience includes Learning Tree Montessori, St. Joseph School, Sanislo Elementary School, and St. Therese School. She has also been a substitute teacher at a number of area independent and parochial schools and for Seattle Public Schools. She has been a volunteer for middle and high school kids in the Madison Group Home (NY) and at the American Institute of Foreign Language (Italy). She has traveled extensively including South Africa, Mozambique, Botswana, Zambia, and Namibia as well as having played Division 1 soccer at Colgate.
Betsy MacKenzie (Learning Support), B.A. Pitzer College; M.Ed., Seattle Pacific University. Betsy joined Seattle Academy’s faculty in 2004, after teaching elementary school in Seattle and also Los Angeles, with Teach for America. With experience in both public and private schools, Betsy has worked with students at all levels. Betsy enjoys taking advantage of all the Northwest has to offer, including hiking, snowshoeing, and running.
Walter Major (Science; Coach), B.A., B.S., Seattle Pacific University; M.S., Washington State University. Walter was a research biologist at the University of Washington where he served as the lead biologist on numerous projects and worked with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Yakima Nation, the Washington Department of National Resources, and the Pacific Coast Shellfish Growers Association. Walter has also coached volleyball and soccer, led outdoor trips, and written a number of articles for scientific journals and trade publications.
Sandra Marulanda (Spanish), B.A., City University of New York; M.A., University of Washington. Sandra taught Spanish for seven years at Seattle University before arriving at Seattle Academy and also directed the university’s study abroad program in Puebla, Mexico. In addition to her work at Seattle University, Sandra has taught Spanish at Cascadia Community College and the University of Washington as well as provided private Spanish instruction to a Latino summer camp. She is a member of the Hispanic Honor Society and the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages and designs jewelry in her spare time.
Megan McCall (10th Grade Coordinator; Learning Support), B.A., Chaminade University. Megan joined Seattle Academy in 2005 after teaching at ASSETS School in Honolulu. She has a passion for helping students who struggle with school learn how to appreciate their many strengths and overcome issues that get in the way of academic success. Megan is a lifelong learner and tries to keep up on the latest research concerning learning disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorders, Anxiety, Gifted education, Assistive Technology and teaching and learning. Always on the look out for professional development opportunities, Megan has organized groups of teachers to attend workshops, seminars, and school visits on a wide range of topics including differentiated instruction, teaching in a block schedule, co-teaching and inclusion, Response to Intervention (RTI), how to create a more visual classroom, and technology.
Veronica McGowan (Science), B.A., Rutgers University; M.S., Florida Atlantic University. Veronica joined the Seattle Academy faculty after teaching science in Florida for the past five years after having taught English in China. A noted marine turtle specialist, she has also served as an environmental education intern for the National Park Service in San Francisco, was an assistant for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and was a research intern for both the HealthCare Institute of New Jersey and the New Jersey Office of the Governor.
Patrick McLane (Middle School Facilitator, Physical Education, Coach), B.A., University of Washington. Patrick began full-time at Seattle Academy as the Middle School Facilitator in 2008. Prior to Seattle Academy, he was a day-camp counselor and instructor for Science Adventures, leading science lessons for children between the ages of 5-8. Patrick has also coached youth sports for various Queen Anne neighborhood organizations. He coaches SAAS teams in volleyball and tennis and teaches in the physical education department.
Dan McNamee (Mathematics; Coach), B.A., Providence College; M.Ed., University of Texas. Prior to moving to Seattle, Dan taught mathematics at St. Mary’s Hall in San Antonio, Texas, and taught math and coached tennis at Mercersburg Academy in Mercersburg, Pennsylvania. Dan has been a tennis professional for many years and was a member of the United States Professional Tennis Association.
Bill Metcalfe (History; Coach), B.A., University of Georgia; M.A., Ph.D., University of Virginia. Bill became a full-time teacher at Seattle Academy in 2006 after serving as an often-requested substitute, teaching Honors American History, Honors English, Honors Government, World History, Speech and Debate, Studio Art, and English. Before coming to Seattle, Bill taught in the University of Virginia’s Department of Government and Foreign Affairs. He has coached swimming at the YMCA and founded a community arts program in North Carolina.
Marc Moquin (Assistant Athletic Director; Coach), B.A., University of California at Santa Barbara; M.A., Seattle Pacific University. Before joining Seattle Academy in 2008, Marc served fourteen years as public relations director and assistant director for the Seattle SuperSonics. He also taught in an after-school center in Kentfield, California. He works as the Assistant Athletic Director and also coaches.
Melinda Mueller (Science), B.S., University of Washington; M.S., Central Washington University. Says Melinda, “Teaching is the only thing other than writing that is never tedious. It’s challenging on so many levels–intellectually, intuitively, creatively, and physically. I have to draw on every talent.” A founding Seattle Academy faculty member, she is both a scientist and a published poet. Melinda has been the lead teacher for DNA workshops at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and has written nationally published health brochures for students. She has been honored for her work in creating a partnership between Seattle Academy and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and is a lead teacher for their Science Education Partnership program.
Roger Murray (Mathematics), B.A., Central Washington University; B.A., St. Thomas Seminary. Roger’s prior experience includes serving as math department chair at the Overlake School in Redmond and teaching at Chief Moses Junior High in Moses Lake. Roger brings both his expertise in mathematics and working with youth to his teaching, developed through more than twelve years as a camp counselor and as a coach in public and independent schools.
Sonja Nielsen (English), B.A., Portland State University; B.A., University of Washington. Sonja teaches English to eighth-grade students and is also the faculty advisor to the Zambia club. She expresses her great love of the outdoors, which she enjoys through hiking and traveling and interprets through her writing and painting. Says Sonja, “In teaching, I try to draw on the wisdom of Native Americans to foster a genuine respect for the rich beauty and mystery of the land.” For the past several years, she has participated with Seattle Academy students and other faculty in the school’s annual, month-long Zambia program, teaching technology skills to students and teachers at several schools in Zambia.
Mike Park (Mathematics), B.A., Washington College; M.A., University of Maryland. A former medic in the Israeli army and a scientific programmer/analyst for Magnavox, Mike was an associate professor of mathematics at Purdue University. He came to Seattle Academy from Canterbury School in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he taught math and computer science.
Kathi Petrotta (Learning Support), B.S., California Polytechnic State University; M.E., Seattle University. Kathi joined Seattle Academy’s faculty in 2007 after teaching math and science at St. Therese School in Seattle and all core subjects at Snoqualmie Middle School for eight years. Before moving to Seattle, she worked in the Department of Planning and Development for Santa Clara County.
Rob Phillips (Assistant Head of School; History; Coach), B.A., Seattle Pacific University; M.B.A., Seattle University. A long-time member of the Seattle Academy faculty, Rob now serves as Assistant Head of School. Broadly educated in anthropology, comparative religion, history, and literature, Rob draws heavily from that education and his cultural experiences with his classes. His background is rich in cross-cultural work. An avid outdoor person, Rob guides regular student trips to Alaska and the Arctic Circle. Rob has been named one of Seattle’s outstanding teachers by the Seattle Times, and has earned numerous “Coach of the Year” awards from both the Emerald City and SeaTac Leagues. Rob coached the girls’ varsity soccer team to the state championship in 2005, 2008, and 2009, and directed the girls’ track and field team to the state title as well.
Joe Puggelli (Head of School; English), B.A., State University of New York; M.A., Penn State. Joe served as Assistant Head of School for twelve years. A teacher in Seattle Academy’s well-known, challenging American Studies classes, Joe was chairman of the English department at both Charles Wright Academy in Tacoma and The McBurney School in New York City. Joe has written extensively about the theory and practice of teaching/coaching, and in 1993 he won the prestigious Newsweek/Sallie-Mae “Inspiring Teacher” Award. Joe says of his varied experiences in education from coast to coast: “Kids are kids everywhere, and I love kids.” A veteran of the U.S. Army who was twice decorated during the Viet Nam War, Joe also has extensive experience in business as owner/publisher of a magazine, a management consultant, and is the author of a writing handbook, a novel, and an original play produced Off-Broadway.
Alison Ray (English Department Chair), B.A., M.E., University of Washington. Alison began her teaching career at Roosevelt and Woodinville high schools where she served as student literary magazine advisor, advised student diversity awareness organizations, and been senior class advisor. Before joining Seattle Academy, Alison taught English and AP Literature and served as English department chair at Escuela Americana in San Salvador, El Salvador.
Melanie Reed (Director of College Advising), B.A., University of Puget Sound; M.A., Middlebury College. Before her arrival at Seattle Academy, Melanie acted as Director of Freshman Admission at the University of Puget Sound. She brings fifteen years of experience in admission and financing at the college level, presenting nationally, serving on boards, and visiting high schools and colleges around the world. She also brings a lifelong love of literature, visual art, art history, dance, film, and museum-going.
Steve Retz (History Department Chair), B.A., St. Olaf College; M.A., Brown University. Prior to joining the faculty at Seattle Academy, Steve taught high school students and adults in Tangier, Morocco, and also worked as an assistant site coordinator in an after-school tutoring program for at-risk children. Says Steve, “I want to help students learn that history is so much more than names and dates. The really important questions to ask about history go beyond ‘what happened,’ and focus on ‘how’ and ‘why.’ By approaching history from those angles and looking for patterns, history becomes relevant for us in the present.” Steve leads a contingent of Seattle Academy youth legislature students to Olympia each year to write bills that frequently make it onto the docket and are debated on the senate and house floor.
Rebekah Rocha (Photography), B.A., University of Washington; B.F.A., University of the Arts. After building an impressive professional and educational portfolio in the world of photography and graphic design, Rebekah began teaching for SAAS in 2005. She also teaches for the Photographic Center Northwest. Rebekah has worked and studied in Philadelphia, North Carolina, and Italy, winning countless awards and other recognition for her outstanding work.
Donna Romero (Visual Arts), B.A., Bennington College; B.A., M.A., Goddard College. Donna returned to the visual arts department full time in 2009 after serving as an interim visual arts instructor in 2004. Prior to Seattle Academy, Donna was at the YMCA Chataqua School-Age Child Care Program on Vashon Island and also teaching private art classes. Donna has taught painting and drawing in Vermont and has had solo art exhibitions throughout New England and the Pacific Northwest.
Jim Rupp (Director of Admission), B.A., University of Washington. Jim came to Seattle Academy after an eight-year stint as public relations director for the Seattle SuperSonics and eight years as corporate communications officer at Washington Mutual Savings Bank. He owned and edited a string of weekly sports newspapers and was a nightly talk show host for KIRO Radio. In addition to his full-time duties as admission director, Jim produces marketing videos for Seattle Academy and manages the school’s public relations initiatives.
Cathy Schick (Athletic Director), B.S., St. Francis Xavier University; M.S., University of Idaho. Cathy was promoted to the role of athletic director in 2008 and returns after a one-year hiatus. Prior to joining SAAS, Cathy was director of marketing for Baden Sports and has coached and served as personal trainer for the University of British Columbia, Colorado Amateur Athletic Union, the YMCA, and Broomfield High School. Cathy is an avid hiker, runner, and outdoors person.
Steven Schroeppel (French, History), two B.A.s, University of Washington; A.L.M., Harvard University (pending). A 1985 Seattle Academy graduate, Steven’s studied Romance Languages, French Literature, and history at the University of Washington prior to pursuing a master’s degree at Harvard University. He was a marketing coordinator for an international engineering corporation and an editor and translator with a French multimedia software company prior to joining the faculty at Seattle Academy.
Paul Shapiro (Arts Department Chair), B.A., Kalamazoo College; M.F.A., University of Montana. A professional actor with stage and film credits, Paul founded the award-winning Santa Fe Children’s Theater and spent over ten years as an international consultant for developing countries. He is a long-time member of the Seattle Academy Arts Department having served as chair on two separate occasions, the first in the mid-80s. Paul has created and taught a highly effective professional seminar exploring the art of negotiation. Recent participants include a group of Jordanian judges who cited the workshop as the most valuable experience during their tour of the United States.
Linda Spangler (Assistant Director of Admission), B.A., Boise State University. Since joining the school in 1989, Linda has experienced Seattle Academy from many perspectives. Before becoming full-time Assistant Director of Admission, she also served as Executive Assistant and school secretary. Often the first contact an applicant family has with Seattle Academy, Linda plans and orchestrates the sixth-grade visit days, processes all applicant files, assists sixth-grade teachers with various trips and events throughout the school year, and enjoys planning the annual eighth-grade Moving Up ceremony.
Rich Stearns (History), B.A., Northwestern University; M.E., University of Washington. Rich was a faculty member at The Overlake School in Redmond for eleven years, serving as outdoor program director, retreat coordinator, and community service coordinator. Rich joined the Upper School History team in 2008 and is the 9th Grade Odyssey Trip coordinator.
Fred Strong (Dean of Faculty), B.A., Maharishi International University; M.A., Bryn Mawr College. Fred brings a broad perspective to his position of Dean of Faculty, having worked as a 6th – 12th grade English teacher and as Middle School Head. Fred previously taught English at the Baldwin School in Pennsylvania and was head of the middle school at the Allen-Stevenson School in New York City. He is fascinated by the big ideas in the future of education. An accomplished French horn player, one of Fred’s out-of-school activities is producing rock and hip-hop shows that combine high school musicians with Seattle’s best professional talent.
Barton Truscott (History; Coach), B.A., Wesleyan University; M.A.T., Occidental College. Barton knows the world of Pacific Northwest independent schools well, having spent ten years at Charles Wright Academy in Tacoma, where he served as history department co-chair. Prior to his stint at Charles Wright, he was a teacher and administrator at two independent schools in southern California. His teaching focus has been European history, world history, and U.S. history, including AP curriculum. A nationally ranked squash player, Barton also has extensive singing experience in styles such as choral operetta, glee club, and barbershop.
Christine Tschirgi (Costumer), B.A., San Diego State University; M.F.A., University of Washington. As the head of Seattle Academy’s costuming department, Christine brings extensive experience to this important facet of the school’s performing arts program. Highlights of her local work include designs for Degenerate Art Ensemble, 5th Avenue Theater, Washington Ensemble Theater, Storybook Theatre, Cornish Dance Theater, Strawberry Theater Workshop, and for Circus Contraption’s Show to End All Shows. Christine has worked nationally at Center Theater Group, Shakespeare & Company, Papermill Playhouse, Pasadena Playhouse, Performing Arts Company of Jacksonhole, and internationally at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus and Kinoshita Circus in Japan. She began a costume design class at SAAS in 2009.
Joel Underwood (English; History; Speech and Debate), B.A., Northwestern University; certification, Metropolitan State College in Denver. Joel returned to Seattle Academy in 2006 after teaching in North Carolina for the previous four years. Under his leadership, Seattle Academy has captured the state Speech and Debate championship the past four years and a total of six times in the last eleven years. He has also coached numerous national competitors and been instrumental in the founding of the school’s Department of Rhetoric. He is an accomplished musician who has his own performing group.
Todd Wallenius (History, Coach), B.A., Whitman College. Todd comes to SAAS from the Dartmoor School where he taught English and History and worked one-on-one with students to provide learning support. He has also served as a substitute teacher for Overlake, Eastside Prep, St. Thomas School, and Giddens School. In addition he has coached soccer and basketball and was a professional soccer player.
Anita Watson (Learning Support) B.A., Central Washington University; M.S.C.P., Chaminade University. Anita comes to us from the Punahou School in Hawaii. We have an informal exchange program with the school, which has resulted in visits in both directions and cooperative problem solving. Anita taught English and Debate there as well as served as the Lead Learning Support Coordinator. Prior to Punahou, Anita taught middle school humanities for the Central Kitsap School District.
James Watson (English), B.A., Vanderbilt University; M.A., University of Montana. James taught elementary and intermediate Spanish at the University of Montana prior to coming to Seattle Academy and also taught intermediate English classes in Merida, Venezuela at the Institute of International Studies and Modern Languages. In his spare time, James has led student summer trips to Central America, including trips to Costa Rica and Guatemala and enjoys fly-fishing and partner-dancing.
Mindy Watson (Upper School Head; Mathematics; Coach), B.S. and preliminary certification, San Diego State University. Mindy is the Head of our Upper School. She also teaches Upper School math and leads outdoor trips. She has coached our girls’ volleyball and basketball teams and served as the Upper School Student Activities Coordinator and Dean of Students. Prior to Seattle Academy, she taught and coached at Charles Wright Academy in Tacoma.
Chelsea Wilcox (Mathematics), B.S., New York University; M.A., Columbia University. Chelsea has been a teacher, advisor, curriculum consultant, and volleyball coach at The Williamsburg Charter High School, The Believe High Schools Network, The James Baldwin School, and The Center School, all in New York City. She has also tutored for the Door Tutoring Service and Kaplan Kids. She received the President’s Service Award for Volunteerism at New York University and served as an intern at the New York City Department of Education.
Ashley Wildhaber (Physical Education; Coach), B.A., University of Washington. Ashley joined the Seattle Academy faculty in 2009 after having coached our state-level pole vaulting team for several years. She is ranked second all-time among the UW’s female pole vaulters, while also placing 5th at the 2005 NCAA Division I indoor track and field championships, and was named an NCAA All-American that year. She is a sought-after motivational speaker emphasizing health, nutrition, overcoming adversity, and methods of combining physical and mental preparation.
Elise Wolf (Mathematics), B.A., University of Puget Sound. Elise has taught Algebra, Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus and Advanced Functions and Modeling for the Northamption County High School East (NC), where she also coached, sat on their improvement committee, and served as an SAT prep tutor. She has served as a Teach for America Corps member, a student orientation coordinator and a peer tutor at the University of Puget Sound.
Bill Woodman (Science), B.S., United States Naval Academy; M.S., Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and a graduate of the National War College. Bill came to Seattle Academy fresh from a four-year stint as an engineer in the Applied Physics Laboratory at the University of Washington, preceded by a 30 year career in the Navy. While Bill was in the Navy he served in various positions including command of two nuclear submarines, Chief of Staff for Commander U.S. Naval Forces Japan, and the professor of naval science at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.. Bill is an avid outdoorsman with particular interests in fly-fishing and rowing and recently earned his private pilot’s license.
Todd Zimberg (Instrumental Music), B.A., M.A., University of Washington. Todd arrived at Seattle Academy after serving as instrumental music director at Seattle Prep and as adjunct professor at Highline Community College, where he taught jazz history. A skilled percussionist, he has also taught the Auburn High School Marching Band and is a member of the Island Jazz Quintet on Vashon Island. Todd has performed with numerous well-known musicians, including Kenny G., Rosemary Clooney, and Bo Diddley.
Spring Zoog (Learning Support), B.A., Miami University, Ohio. Spring has been an Accelerated Progress Program Teacher for Thurgood Marshall Elementary and Lowell Elementary as well as a long-term substitute for the Seattle Public Schools. She has also served as a Faculty Associate for the Graduate Program in Health Administration and Planning at the University Washington. In addition she has been a Senior Administrative Analyst at Group Health Cooperative. She was awarded the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom Award through the Seattle Seahawks.
Don Zwiers (Mathematics; Coach), B.A., B.S., University of Washington. Over the years, Don has traveled to Australia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Thailand, among others. As a founding faculty member of the program, he has been an integral part of Seattle Academy’s summer work in Zambia. In addition to teaching math at Seattle Academy, Don has headed the math department and served as the first Technology Director, overseeing the implementation of the Upper School laptop program. He took a one-year sabbatical from teaching several years ago to travel, but he knew he would return to Seattle Academy sooner rather than later to teach, because, as he said at the time, “I will miss the kids too much.”
