Faculty and Staff

Executive Team

Lynne Beachner, Interim Principal

Lynne Beachner, Ph.D., returns to Gordon Parks after two years away. She has agreed to be the interim principal while the search is on for a new principal. Dr. Beachner has been in administration for 20 years and has worked as a Principal, a Coordinator of Instruction, and directed a Federal Innovations in Educations Grant for the Middle School of the Arts and Paseo Academy. She has worked in elementary, middle, high schools and colleges and has experienced private, public and charter schools.  All but four years of Dr. Beachner's experience has been in the urban core.

Dr. Beachner loves the mission of Gordon Parks and hopes to keep the wonderful drive forward the school is making.  Her passions in education include technology and the arts. 

Wayne Crull, Executive Director

Wayne Crull is a long-time St. Louis resident whose love for at-risk children has brought him to Kansas City as Gordon Parks Elementary’s Executive Director. Prior to joining Gordon Parks, Mr. Crull served at the Edgewood Children’s Center, now part of the Great Circle organization, as its President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Crull has advocated on behalf of foster children in Missouri and has worked to improve the lives of children with severe emotional and/or behavioral disabilities. His dedication to children and long-time leadership experience makes him a perfect fit at Gordon Parks!

Wayne enjoys outdoor activities like running, hunting and fishing. He also enjoys spending time with his wife and family and their dog Sophie Grace.

 

Administrative Team

Sandy Elkins Regan, Office Manager

Although her official title is "Office Manager," Sandy isn't restricted by a job description. Each morning, she's the first one at school, arriving at approximately 6:30 a.m. She turns on the lights and checks the phone messages. For Sandy, there is no typical day. She may apply "magic" lotion on hurts or listen to an excited child read a 'difficult' book. There are more than 200 students at Gordon Parks and Sandy tries to learn everyone's name.

Sandy grew up in the Kansas City area. Sandy worked as a librarian and eventually as the secretary at James School. Sue Jarvis, one of the founders of Gordon Parks, was a teacher at James School during this time. She invited Sandy to become office manager of the new Charter School when it opened its doors in 1999.

During the week, Sandy's life revolves around Gordon Parks. On weekends, she and Michael ride tandem, exploring the countryside on their Kawasaki motorcycle. Sandy's enthusiasm for the school has rubbed off on Michael. He established the aquarium, and has been adjusting the water and the chemicals and regulating fish population since August 2000.

When weather is not conducive to biking, Sandy, the mother of a "beautiful grown daughter", enjoys the company of her cat, Cooper, and curling up with a book - the mystery genre is her favorite. "I always carry a book with me wherever I go," said Sandy, the former librarian turned school gatekeeper. "I call it my bibliotherapy."

Wadandra McBride, Family Outreach Coordinator

Wadandra McBride considers it a unique privilege to have the opportunity to serve Gordon Parks’ families. She cherishes the opportunity to partner in meeting the needs of the parents and students.

Wadandra is no stranger to our school, having had two children graduate from Gordon Parks.  Daughter Aliyah graduated in 2006 and is a Kauffman Scholar. Daughter Ashley graduated in 2007 and is in the Young Achiever Program.  Wadandra thanks Gordon Parks for having laid the foundation for success during the girl’s elementary school years. In 2000, she started out as a parent volunteer, then joined the Board of Directors in 2002 , and became Board Secretary in 2006. In February 2010, Wadandra served as recruitment coordinator for the school before taking the full-time position in August 2010 as Family Outreach Coordinator.

Before children, Wadandra managed the Naturalizer shoe store serving senior citizens. “Now I am serving the youth, it’s amazing how life comes full circle” she stated.

Wadandra has been married 19 years to a very supportive husband, named Waymon. She is a devoted, loving wife and mother, making certain all the family needs are met. Wadandra had been a homemaker for 15 years.

“I am happy to join hands with parents in creating a year filled with happy learning and growing experiences for their children” says Wadandra.

Mary Pittala, Business Manager

Mary Pittala joined Gordon Parks as full-time Business Manager in August 2009. Prior to that, she contracted her services as Business Manager for Gordon Parks beginning in September 2006. She received her BSBA degree in Accounting from Rockhurst University in Kansas City. She holds a CPA license from the state of Missouri. After working as an intern in the Tax department for a local CPA firm, she worked as a Staff Accountant in the Audit department of Arthur Young, a public accounting firm. She left there to work in private accounting at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City in the Finance and Internal Audit departments, initially working as a Staff Accountant, then promoted to Internal Auditor, and subsequently to Senior Accountant.

After she adopted her son through Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph, she went to work part-time as a Senior Accountant for The Epoch Group, a third party administrator. Upon adoption of her second son five years later, she went to work for herself as a contract accountant. “Being self-employed, although challenging at times, allowed me the flexibility to be there for my children while they were young yet still manage to develop my skills as a CPA.”

Mary is a Kansas City native and lives in Kansas City North with her husband Anthony and two sons John and Matthew. Her favorite pastime is spending time with her family. She believes in the mission of Gordon Parks and is happy to be a part of such a great staff!
 

 

 

 

 

Keely J. Schneider, Development Director

Keely joined Gordon Parks Elementary School as its new Development Director in June 2008.  Keely received her B.A., magna cum laude from Davidson College (Davidson, N.C.) and her J.D., cum laude from the University of Georgia School of Law.  She is a native of Atlanta, Georgia where she practiced law in the areas of corporate healthcare and non-profit organization.

She left the practice of law after her daughter was born to help run a family-owned commercial real estate business where she gained extensive experience as a project manager in strategic commercial real estate planning and construction.

After her family's move to Kansas City, and the birth of her son, Keely continued to work part-time in construction, real estate project management and real estate sales and marketing.

"I was ready to return to full time work, but was not interested in returning to a law practice.  I was ready for a change from the corporate world . . . I was ready for something that I could really be excited about doing.  Because of my volunteer work with the Junior League of Kansas City in the area of children's literacy, I knew I wanted a position in the non-profit world; one where I could use my diverse skill set."

"Even in my first short visit to Gordon Parks, something about it resonated with me.  With its emphasis on the visual and performing arts, I just knew this place was a fit for me."

Keely sings in several choral groups around Kansas City and is an avid tennis player.  She is also the proud parent of a 12 year-old daughter and an 8 year-old son.

Shannon Solis, Volunteer and Development Coordinator

Before joining the Gordon Parks family, Shannon Solis worked at a local advertising agency where she did research and long-term strategy projects for clients. Her love for public service came from her experience coordinating a philanthropic committee which placed employees in the community to do service projects for local nonprofit organizations. Shannon decided to make volunteer management her full-time focus and is excited to be working in the nonprofit sector. Shannon enjoys meeting new volunteers and finding a perfect fit for them at Gordon Parks. Being the only woman in her family who is not a teacher, Shannon knows that joining the Gordon Parks Elementary family is the perfect way to continue her family’s teaching legacy.

Shannon is a graduate of the KU School of Journalism and recently completed her Masters of Public Affairs from Park University. Shannon and her husband, Mark, enjoy working on DIY projects in their home, spending time outdoors, and watching KU sports.

Kindergarten Family

Gladys Groves, Kindergarten Teacher

One cannot walk by Gladys Groves' community without a smile sweeping across their face.  The energetic Kindergarteners are singing, dancing, and using new language they have just recently discovered!

Gladys Groves grew up in Edwardsville, Kansas.  When Mrs. Groves was in school, her favorite activity was reading.  When asked about her college experience she replied, "Yes, I am a Rock, Chalk, Jayhawker!"  As a child, her favorite thing to do was play school.  That set the stage for her goal of becoming a teacher.  Mrs. Groves believes that all children can learn.  She speaks of herself as a "facilitator."  "The real learning happens when the student becomes empowered to be an active learner."  Reading is her favorite subject to teach because she loves to see the student's faces light up when they discover they can actually read!

Her dream is to keep in touch with some of the students and in the future hear them tell me that I did make a difference in their life.

Mary Harper, Paraprofessional

Mary Harper grew up in Moorestown, New Jersey. She attended Centenary College for Women in Hackettstown, New Jersey. She later attended Rockhurst University where she graduated with honors!

Mrs. Harper has always wanted to work with children. "I've always thought I'd end up working with children in some capacity because they not only inspire you, but keep you so grounded", she stated.

Mrs. Harper joined Gordon Parks in a supportive role to the kindergarten and the special education program.

Mrs. Harper enjoys working at Gordon Parks because of the support. She said, "When I do face a challenge, there is always someone to help if I need it. I love being able to work with kids and chart their progress. Also, I'm lucky to work with an awesome staff that work and support one another as a team."

One of her goals is to obtain her teaching certification soon. When she retires, she'd love to go back east and live in Vermont and have a beach house.

Andrea Pinkerton, PACE Teacher

Mrs. Andrea Pinkerton is excited to be a part of the Gordon Parks Team. Before joining Gordon Parks Elementary she spent the four years as a Paraprofessional in the Lee’s Summit School District and worked with all different age groups with a variety of special needs.  Prior to being a para, Andrea taught 5 years in first and second grade in the Hickman Mills School District.  As the PACE teacher, she is looking forward to preparing and encouraging  our children for the bright futures ahead of them.

When not at Gordon Parks, Andrea keeps very busy with her two children. Sydney is 13 and involved in cross country and soccer.  Brett is 10 and plays soccer as well. She also spends much free time playing taxi.  Andrea is married to an avid cyclist and enjoys reading, running, biking, scrapbooking, and taking pictures of her family. Andrea also has a Boston Terrier named Scout who doesn’t leave her side when she at home!

Pennie Senn, Kindergarten Teacher

Pennie Senn attended the University of New Orleans where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education.  She continued her education there with a Masters Degree plus 30 hours in Early Childhood.  

Mrs. Senn and her husband, Will, lived in New Orleans where she taught for 32 years before hurricane Katrina.  They relocated to Kansas City because she had family here.  During her job search, the Gordon Parks website reeled her in when she read the mission and philosophy and saw the beautiful faces of the children.  "I knew I had found a new home," says Mrs. Senn.  

When asked about what it means to be a teacher Mrs. Senn explains, "As a kindergarten teacher there is nothing more rewarding than watching a child's eyes light up when they write their name for the first time, read their first work or fall in love with their first book."

Words to live by . . . "Live now.  When you are eating, eat.  When you are loving, love.  When you are talking with someone, talk.  When you are looking at a flower, look.  Catch the beauty of the moment!"           ~Leo Buscalglia

Andrew Smith, Paraprofessional

Mr. Smith began his career at Gordon Parks in August 2003 as a paraprofessional in our Kindergarten classes and continues to serve our community in that capacity.  Mr. Smith also is a member of our Aftercare staff, working with all students enrolled in our after-school program.

 

 

 

Tamara Williams, Paraprofessional

Tamara Allen-Williams has taught school for nearly 30 years and came to Gordon Parks from St. Monica's Parochial School, which closed due to declining enrollment.

"I knew when I moved to another school, I wanted it to be supportive," said Tamara. "Gordon Parks was so inviting. When I took the job, I knew I'd be O.K."

Tamara is the mother of two sons; her mother's seven grandchildren are all boys. Tamara loves her chosen career. At Gordon Parks, she plans to stress science and math studies, her favorite subjects, to the 18 children in her classroom.

First and Second Grade Family

Frances Christian, Second Grade Teacher

Frances Christian graduated from Central Missouri State University with a Bachelors in Elementary Education. She brings to Gordon Parks more than 20 years of experience. She finds "teaching children to be a truly rewarding profession. I feel truly blessed for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our students at Gordon Parks."

Mrs. Christian's classroom is tidy and home-like. "I want the children to feel welcome when they enter my classroom."

Words to live by...

"Children are our most valuable natural resource." ~Herbert Hoover

"The mediocre teacher tells.
The good teacher explains.
The superior teacher demonstrates.
The great teacher inspires."
~William Arthur Ward

Joanna Cuda, First Grade Teacher

Joanna was born and educated in Kansas City.  She grew up in the Northland, graduated from Rockhurst University and has taught for 8 years at St. Peter's Catholic School and then for 10 years in Kansas City's public school system before coming to Gordon Parks in August 2010.  Now, for the first time, she is teaching in a charter school!

Outside the classroom, Joanna enjoys time with her family and friends, attending Royals games (win or lose) and playing a a volleyball league.

Selena Van Horn, Second Grade Teacher


Mrs. Van Horn was born in Erie, Pennsylvania to a large extended family of 55 first cousins. She moved to Kansas City with her family when she was 16 years old. Mrs. Van Horn attended UMKC and La Universidad Antonio de Nebrija in Madrid, Spain. She graduated with her degree in Spanish Education K-12 and Elementary Education. She has taught Spanish to children from 5-19 years old (but her favorite age group to teach is elementary!)  She enjoys photography, traveling, reading and hanging out with her husband and pets (2 dogs and a cat). She also loves the arts and is very excited be part of the Gordon Parks family.

Amber White, First Grade Teacher

Ms. Amber White grew up in Raytown, MO and attended elementary, middle, and high school in the Raytown School District (go Cardinals!).  She played softball at UMKC and graduated with a degree in Elementary Education in 2005.  While teaching in the Hickman Mills School District for 5 years, Amber earned her Master's Degree in Administration from Baker University.  Last year, Amber took the year off of teaching to work at UMKC teaching classes and mentoring beginning teachers.  She missed kids so much that she decided to volunteer at Gordon Parks while working at UMKC.  When a 1st grade job came available at Gordon Parks, Amber knew it had to be for her because 1st graders are her favorite!  

While Amber loves teaching, she has many other hobbies: cooking, gardening, listening to music, reading Harry Potter, and playing with her dog Cooper. Sh also loves to dance! Amber spends much of her free time volunteering and fundraising for the MS Society in honor of her friend who has MS.  Amber participtes in a 50 mile walk every year in her honor!  Amber's dream is to someday live and open a school in Africa.

Third and Fourth Grade Family

Kirsten Burnfin, Third Grade Teacher

Kirsten Burnfin has lived in Kansas City all her life, except for a brief stint at the “Happiest Place on Earth” (a.k.a. Disney World). She is the oldest of seven, so she’s been “teaching” most of her life! She originally taught at Gordon Parks for five years, and has now returned to the place she loves and the third graders she’s missed! Some of her favorite things about working at Gordon Parks are the supportive staff, kids who are eager to learn, and being in such a positive environment. She feels as though she is truly helping others. In her spare time, Kirsten loves to read, write, and perform in community theater -- as soon as she finishes that pesky Masters Program she’s enrolled in, she’ll get right back to those hobbies! She loves teaching and working with the amazing staff and students at Gordon Parks Elementary.

 

 

 

Lisa Gann, Fourth Grade Teacher

Lisa’s classroom career spans more than two decades. She has been a teacher at Gordon Parks since 2007. "I've never taught in a school where the staff receives so much support. As a teacher at Gordon Parks, I have a built-in safety net." Lisa, a native of Sedalia, earned her B.S. at Northwest Missouri State in Marysville. She later earned a masters degree in Visual Arts from the University of Kansas. Lisa taught for 5 years in the KCK school district, eight years at Barstow, a private school, and for 17 years at Swinney School, one of the Kansas City District's first magnet schools. In 1999 she pursued her elementary classroom certification, and moved from the art room to the regular classroom. She combines the rudiments of teaching with her love of art.

Her time away from the classroom is spent doting on her two nieces, reading, gardening, listening to music, and enjoying life in Kansas City. She also finds an outlet in cooking and creating fiber art.

Heather Myer, Third Grade Teacher

Heather is a veteran of urban education, having taught three years in the South Bronx before coming to Kansas City to teach 4th Grade at Gordon Parks.  She received a B.A. in Communication Studies with an emphasis in Journalism from Azusa Pacific University and a M.A. in Education from CUNY - Lehman College in conjunction with a fellowship through the New York City Teaching Fellows.

Heather loves to play sports and be outside - most particularly she love running, playing soccer and tennis.  She balances her love of outside activity with a passion for ice cream!

Bethany Raimo, Fourth Grade Teacher

Bethany Lefholz grew up in Lexington, Missouri with her sister and parents. She attended Central Missouri State where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education. She then went on to earn her Master's Degree in Literacy Education for K-12.

"I have always wanted to be a teacher," she stated. "As a child, I used to play school and get into fights with my friends because I had to be the teacher." She loves the staff and the students at Gordon Parks. Her biggest challenge is having enough time to incorporate all of her creative teaching ideas into her lessons.

Miss Lefholz's most memorable teaching experience happened a few years ago when a student consistently told her how much he hated her. The student had an accident and was hospitalized and he begged his mother to call Miss Lefholz so she could visit him. He asked her to come visit him everyday!

When asked about her goals, Miss Lefholz stated, "I just want to be successful in whatever I pursue."

Allyson Thurston, Third Grade Teacher

Allyson Thurston grew up in St. Louis, MO. She attended William Jewell College and completed her student teaching internship here at Gordon Parks. She has had the opportunity to wear many different hats at Gordon Parks.  She has taught 1st and 2nd grade, worked with the ILS program, and been a part of the SPED team.  She is excited to get back into the classroom and teach 3rd grade!

When asked what inspired her to become a teacher, she replied, "I've always wanted to be a teacher. I want to make a difference in others' lives. My mom is a wonderful teacher and I've always wanted to be just like her!"

She lives in Liberty with her husband and son.  She enjoys being outside, reading, and spending time with her family.

Fifth Grade Family

Jennifer Bingham, Fifth Grade Teacher

My name is Jennifer Bingham and this is my first year teaching at Gordon Parks. I graduated from Missouri State University in Springfield, MO with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and an emphasis in Special Education. After teaching fifth grade in Nixa, Missouri for two years, I knew I wanted to move to a bigger city. Kansas City was a perfect choice – a big city that still allowed me to be close to my family. That, and I am a huge Chiefs fan!

Last year, I worked as a research assistant at the University of Missouri – Kansas City, which allowed me to work full time on my master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. However, I missed the classroom so much that I knew I had to come back. Gordon Parks Elementary School felt like the perfect place for me when I visited the school during a Breakfast Learning Walk. I then became a volunteer and was pleased to accept a position teaching fifth grade. It has been a wonderful school year so far!

Some of my favorite activities outside of school include reading, spending time with friends, and playing or watching sports. I love when my students share their sports schedules so I can be a loud fan! I also love making weekend trips back to Springfield to visit my mom, dad, and older brother.

Mary Kennedy, Fifth Grade Teacher

Mary Kennedy graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Living from the University of Kansas.  After relocating to California Mary obtained her multiple subject teaching credential from National University and a master’s degree in Adolescent & Child Literacy from Loyola Marymount University.  Mary has nearly 15 years of teaching experience working as a teacher and as a reading specialist.

In her free time Mary enjoys spending family time with her husband, son, and dog.  Her interests and hobbies include reading, running, yoga and gardening.  Mary truly enjoys having the opportunity to learn and grow with her students.

Special Services

Karen Brunk, Supplemental Math Teacher

Karen Brunk graduated from Park University in with a Bachelor's in 1986 and again with a Master's in Education in 2005. She has over 22 years of experience in education. She is a lifelong learner herself and is currently working on her English Language Certification. Karen has worked for the Park Hill School District as a Teacher and Parent Educator. She was a teacher and then the Math Coordinator for the Kansas City Missouri School District. She is excited to join the Gordon Parks team this year as a first grade teacher!

Karen currently serves on the Dorothy Watson Harper Literacy Center Board at Park University and was a founding member. She is also an executive member of the local chapter of the KC Missouri Council Teachers of Mathematics. Karen participates in many state leadership conferences and recently participated in revising the State Mathematic Learning Goals that will soon pass the State Board. She has been teaching teachers how to teach math since 2003.

When she is not busy with school work or volunteering, she keeps tabs on her husband of 26 years and her three grown children. Her oldest son just completed his Masters in Geospatial Sciences in August 2009. Her second son graduated from New York University last May and is a professional dancer in Cleveland, Ohio. Her youngest is attending Missouri State and will graduate in two years with her degree in Linguistics Anthropology. In fact, her daughter already speaks French, Arabic, and American Sign Language. All three children have lived abroad, and all three have their own special talents.

Karen also mentors three children that her own children call the "replacement family." These children are like hers. They are a part of our family. One is in Kindergarten, one is in fourth grade, and one is in seventh grade. They keep her busy on the weekends they come to visit. Chances are you will see her grown children or her "adopted" children at school sometime, as they all love to come for a visit!

One of Karen's biggest strengths is the relationships she builds with the children, with their families, and with her teaching colleagues. Those relationships contribute to her strong ability to manage a classroom with firm and high expectations but also with a clear sense of warmth and caring. Positive communications with parents are always a high priority with Karen. Please stop by and say hello when you get a chance. You'll want to see all the neat things that are happening in Room 208!

Kevin Clemmons, Music Teacher

Mr. Kevin Clemmons has been a vocal music teacher for a number of years. His passion for music started when he was eight years old. Growing up in a musical family, Kevin's desire to become a music teacher blossomed when he was in middle school. He saw how his teacher, Judith Gheddard, enjoyed singing and teaching voice parts while playing the piano. This experience had a very positive impact on Kevin's life! After graduating from high school he attended Peru State Teachers College in Peru, Nebraska, graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Music Education in 1986.

Carolyn Faenger, Special Education Teacher

Carolyn Faenger grew up in Kansas City, MO. Mrs. Faenger attended the University of Missouri in Columbia. She earned a double certification in special education and elementary education. She has taken graduate coursework at the University of Missouri in Kansas City, Avila College, and Ottawa University. Mrs. Faenger and her husband, Steve, have one daughter. She is also an educator.

After college, Mrs. Faenger worked for twenty-five years in the Kansas City Missouri School District. Mrs. Faenger loves to work with children because of their enthusiasm. Her favorite subject to teach is reading because it is such an important life-long skill. "It is very exciting to see children develop a sight vocabulary and decoding skills," she stated.

Mrs. Faenger shared a story that has stayed with her. Nearly eight years ago, "I was teaching kindergarten. I had a precocious child who was quite computer savvy, but did not know how to tie his shoes. In frustration one day he said, "I wish I could just go to www.tiemyshoe .com and learn how to tie my shoes!" It is those kinds of stories that keep Mrs. Faenger smiling and making a difference.

Kristina Harmelink , Special Education Teacher

Kristina Harmelink grew up near Chicago, IL in a small farming town.  She went to college in Chicago and fell in love with the city!  After graduating from college with degrees in Elementary Education and Special Education, she decided to stay in the city and taught for 3 years in a therapeutic day school for low-functioning special education students.  Special education has become her passion, and she loves helping students that need extra attention to reach their goals!
 
While teaching in Chicago, Kristina met her wonderful husband (who was already living in Kansas City).  They decided it would be best to settle in Kansas City.  Kristina heard about Gordon Parks through a friend and decided it would be a perfect fit.  She is looking forward to starting the school year and building relationships with her students!

Stephanie Hawkins, Supplemental Reading Teacher

Stephanie Hawkins was born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri. She attended CMSU and UMKC and earned her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. She is currently working on her Master's degree at Webster University.

Ms. Hawkins was enlisted in the United States Navy for four years. After a while, she had a choice of re-enlisting or going on to pursue another career. It came to her that she wanted to work with children.

"I truly enjoy teaching. Every time one of my students says 'oh, I get it!', that makes my day and makes me feel like I've accomplished something," says Ms. Hawkins. Her favorite subject to teach is math. She said, "I love to make math fun as well as challenging. When I was this age, math was hard for me. It was boring! So, I try to make it as exciting and interesting as possible."

Ms. Hawkins is happy she made the decision to teach at Gordon Parks School. She likes the camaraderie amongst the teachers and staff. She loves the small class sizes and the "one big happy family" atmosphere where everyone knows everyone!

Barbara Kluepfel-Anderson, Art Teacher

Walk into the art room at Gordon Parks Elementary and you will see, hear, and smell the magic of Barb Kluepfel's artistic creativity!  Children are painting sculptures, weaving purses, building play scenery, designing shoes, and listening to a variety of music.  Their minds, hands, and ears are all engaged in the project.  Now this is ART at its best!

Barb Kluepfel was born in Altfeld, Germany.  Although she moved to Kansas City when she was five years old, she held on to her roots and speaks fluent German.  

Ms. Kleupfel attended the Kansas City Art Institute where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts.  She attended Brighton Polytechnic School in England, The School of Art Institute in Chicago, and UMKC.  She is currently attending Baker University where she is studying for her master's degree.

Her projects often take place in and out of the classroom.  Ms. Kleupfel said she has always been drawn to the arts.  She enjoys making things out of a variety of material and found objects.

Beverly Leonard, Special Education Teacher

Bev Leonard has been an educator for 34 years, as an elementary teacher, special education teacher and as an administrator. She holds an Elementary Education degree from Missouri State University, a Reading Specialist degree from Drury College, and a Specialist Degree in Administration from University of Central Missouri.

At a very young age, Bev knew that she wanted to work with children and wanted to teach all children important skills to help them succeed in life. After retiring from public education Bev learned about Gordon Parks from a friend. She had the opportunity to visit Gordon Parks and knew the school shared her passion of helping kids succeed. “Gordon Parks has in place best practices that I know help children succeed. I feel honored and excited to be a part of such an outstanding school.”

Bev and her husband, Jim, have been married 40 years. They have two daughters, Jen and Jamie. Bev is most proud of her firts grandson who was born in August 2011.

Marissa Manring, Library Media Instructor

My name is Marissa Manring. I am the Librarian/Literacy Teacher at Gordon Parks Elementary. While growing up in the small town of Albany, Missouri, there wasn't alot to do. To fight my boredom, I often found myself at the local Albany Carnegie Public Library surrounded by books and sitting on my favorite blue octopus bean bag chair. This is what began my love of reading and learning.

After completing my Bachelor of Science degree in Parks, Recreation and Tourism at the University of Missouri in Columbia and a short stint at a nature center in Minnesota, I moved to Kansas City to work at a public library. I knew that I belonged in a library setting and decided to return to school part time to work on a Master of Library Science degree at MU. After receiving my masters in May of 2010, I plan to obtain my teaching certificate. I am excited make the transition into a school library and help students discover the many things a library has to offer. 

In my spare time I enjoy baking desserts, eating desserts, riding my bike to burn off the calories from said desserts and making people laugh.

Bonita Mickens, Science Teacher

Bonita Mickens joined Gordon Parks in 2011 as the school's first Science Teacher. Bonita appreciates working at a school that recognizes the importance of placing emphasis on building strong science foundations. Bonita is excited for the opportunity to prepare Gordon Parks students to think “scientifically.”  She believes that scientific Inquiry of comparing, predicting outcomes, drawing logical conclusions etc. are all lifetime skills our students can and will use in everyday situations.

Bonita graduated from the University of Missouri Kansas-City in 2006 earning a B.A. in Elementary Education. She has taught for five years and values lifetime learning.  

Bonita's outside interests include tasting all 31 flavors of ice cream at Baskin Robbins, volunteering  with Special Olympics, watching her adult son Brennan’s athletic games, enjoying the outdoors when the fall leaves have changed into stunning shades of color, and playing with her grandchildren who are explosions of wonderment.

Aleaka Morgan, Speech/Language Pathologist

Aleaka Morgan knew she wanted to work with kids. But it wasn't until her younger brother received assistance from a speech therapist that she considered a career in speech pathology. "I love the one-on-one attention I can give individual students," said Aleaka, who earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Kansas where she was a fourth generation Jayhawker.

After graduation, the speech pathologist moved to the metro area with her husband Carlton. She began her career working on a contract basis with clients from Lee's Summit to Operation Breakthrough in the inner city. "I was doing lots of driving," she said. "I wanted a position where I could work in one place and become better acquainted with the students. Thanks to Sister Berta at Operation Breakthrough, I found Gordon Parks."

Allen Roth, Physical Education Teacher

Allen ("AJ") grew up in Moberly, Missouri working on his family farm for as long as he can remember, and running both cross country and track during high school as well as playing basketball.  AJ says that working on the farm helped him become a patient person because "nothing on the farm comes easy and nothing goes according to plan."

After high school, AJ attended the University of Central Missouri where he earned his B.S. in Physical Education/Health K-12.  During his years at Central Missouri, he was a decathlete on the track and field team.  Once he was out of eligibly, he joined the coaching staff and worked with other decathletes.  When he was not on the track, AJ often served as a substitute teacher for the Warrensburg School district.   He also did his student teaching in the Warrensburg school district at the middle and elementary school.   AJ recalls "I knew from the first time I taught a lesson in one of my college classes that teaching was what I wanted to do. I love being active and teaching students games they have never played before.  I also love watching my students leave after class huffing and puffing and saying, 'That was fun! Can we do that again?'" 

AJ is currently working toward his Masters of Sport Business and Administration. 

Lori Sharp, Occupational Therapist

Lori knows her way around Gordon Parks, having assisted her teenage sons develop an after-school debate program at Gordon Parks over the past three years.  She holds a B.S. from the University of Michigan, a Masters in Occupational Therapy from Texas Women's University, and is currently working on her Ph.D. in Occupational Therapy from the University of Kansas Medical Center.

Lori became interested in occupational therapy while teaching in Liberal, Kansas where she saw the need to help students refine their motor skills and handwriting coordination.  She was an occupational therapist in the USD 480 Schools for 7 years before teaching water therapy at Seward County Community College for the next 4 years.  She then moved into private occupational therapy practice from 2000 to 2008.  In 2008, Lori served as the Occupational Therapist for Horizon Academy before joining the staff of Gordon Parks in 2010.

Lori has been married for 24 years, has three children, a cat and a dog! 

"I believe a child's occupation is to be a student and to play!  Play activities help children develop skills to be successful in the classroom."

Cheryl Steffenella, Vision Skills Specialist

Cheryl Steffenella was born in Chicago, IL. Her family moved to Kansas City when she was in the sixth grade. As a youth she had a passion for horses. While living at home she bought a horse and kept it in the garage until the smell was too bad and the neighbors complained!

Mrs. Steffenella attended Central Missouri State University where she earned her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. She then attended Washburn University in Topeka, KS where she received her Reading Specialist degree. Mrs. Steffenella also has earned a Special Education certification in learning disabilities from the University of Kansas.

Mrs. Steffenella has wanted to be a teacher since she was a young child. She loves the children of Gordon Parks and works with them on their vision skills in hopes of improving their reading ability.

At home, Mrs. Steffenella has two horses, two cats, and one dog. She has a wonderful husband, four adult children, and two adorable grandchildren. Mrs. Steffenella keeps busy with her hobbies which include rug hooking, cross stitching, and reading. 

Mrs. Steffenella's future goals include establishing an extremely successful visual skills program at Gordon Parks.

Read about the visual skills program on our Helping Children Learn page.

Lara Troutner, Counselor
Lara Troutner was born and raised in San Clemente, CA, but is now firmly transplanted in the midwest. She recieved a degree in Psychology at University of Missouri and completed her masters in Social Work at KU in 1999. Lara is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has been working in the field for 12 years. Married for 10 years with 3 loud, wild and wonderful children, Lara's passion is traveling in different countries to experience how other cultures live and love life. Of course Lara is always trying to get back to the beach where she feels most relaxed.  Lara is thrilled to have reached the goal of to working in the school system. She has worked with people of all different ages and backgrounds and specialized in drug and alcohol addiction treatment and child and family therapy.  
 
Lara spent 12 years working in psychiatric hospitals and residential treatment facilities and was excited to have an opportunity to work at Gordon Parks where she has a more supportive and encouraging role with with students. Lara enjoys having a relationship with students and thier families and feels great knowing that the school provides a safe and nurturing enviornment for them to learn. Lara loves that Gordon Parks will go that needed extra mile to ensure a child can be successful and supported. It is meaningful to her to help students make good choices and that they can learn and grow from and take lesson with them throughout life.
 
Words to live by: "If you don't like something change it, If you can't change it,change your attitude." - Maya Angelou

 

Douglass Walker, Behavioral Specialist

Douglass Walker grew up in Kansas City, MO. He attended Penn Valley College and Central Missouri State University.

Delores Maxwell, a member of his church, was principal of James Elementary School. She inspired Mr. Walker to work with children and persuaded him to take a position at her school. He worked for 5 1/2 years at James School and then came to Gordon Parks in 2001. Mr. Walker staffs the Gordon Parks Care Room as the Behavior Intervention Specialist.

Mr. Walker's Care Room is a place where students go when they need to calm down and collect themselves. Having the Care Room gives teachers and students the support they need to continue learning when disruptions occur.

Mr. Walker stated, "I enjoy helping the students solve their problems. The key is to speak calmly to them. I give them the space they need and tell them my expectations. It is important that I work on building relationships with all the students." Mr. Walker has built many positive relationships. Students enjoy his funny sense of humor and often earn good visits to his room.

Now he is able to share these wonderful traits with his sons, Myles and Elias. In his spare time, Mr. Walker writes poetry and songs, plays chess, basketball and video games and sings. His future goals include becoming a full time singer/songwriter/actor and building his dream home for his wife and children."

Beth Walker, Counselor

Beth Walker has fond memories of elementary school, growing up in St. Charles, Missouri.  This love of school, her teachers and her experiences prompted her to want to be a teacher early on.  After graduation, Beth went off to college at Central Missouri State University.  It was there that she took her first social work class and fell in love with the profession!  After graduating with a social work degree, Beth was able to find a job that combined both of her interests; education & social work.  She worked at an elementary school in Clinton, Missouri for 7 years as a school social worker. This position validated her passions and she sought to further her education.  Beth graduated from the University of Kansas with a Masters Degree in Social Work.  It was during graduate school that she completed a practicum experience at Operation Breakthrough and loved the unique agency so much that she joined the clinical team as a child therapist and stayed for 11 years!

Beth is excited to join the Gordon Parks team as a part-time counselor!  Although she may be new to the team, Beth has been familiar with Gordon Parks since its beginning.  She has worked with the children, collaborated with staff and watched it to grow and develop into what it is today.  She is looking forward to bringing her creativity, playfulness and smile to Gordon Parks each day!

Beth lives in Kansas City, Missouri with her husband and her son.  She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri and a Registered Play Therapist. 

Building Management

John Shadoan, Building Manager

What's a former Montana logger, restaurant owner and Air Force fighter pilot doing under the sink in the school cafeteria?  John Shadoan, building manager, helps maintain the 90-year-old building.

John came to the school last April after a restless three years as a "house husband."  He'd moved to Kansas City from Bozeman, Montana, after his wife was hired as vice president of Special Olympics in Missouri.

"I read 'Who Moved My Cheese' three times (a pop psychology book about thinking 'outside the box') before my wife pushed me into finding a job.  But what should I do?  I asked myself.  At the age of 12, I was driving a logging truck for my grandfather's timber business.  I'd owned real estate and managed restaurants in downtown Bozeman.  I'd never applied for a job.

"When I walked into Gordon Parks, I liked the feel of the building.  I enjoy being around children, even though I have none of my own.  The students call me 'Mr. John' but they're a little confused on how I fit in.   Since I've been fixing toilets, sinks and scrubbing the cafeteria, the weeks fly by."

Michael Turner, Assistant Building Manager

Michael Turner was no stranger to Gordon Parks when he joined the maintenance staff.  

"Four of my children went to school here," he said proudly.  "I know what this school offers - small class sizes and lots of encouragement."

Michael was volunteering at a church after being laid off as a substance abuse counselor for homeless men, when he heard Mr. Clifton (the school's primary custodian) was retiring.   "This job is a good fit for me," Michael said. "I can help keep the school stay clean and at the same time, serve as a role model for the boys, many who come from single family homes."