Data Team Leaders
Classroom Teachers Serving as Teacher Leaders
Jessica BolarComing Soon
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Sami KestersenSamantha is a 6th grade teacher at Norway Intermediate and a DTL. She shared that she chose Benton because of its strong sense of community. "I chose to be a teacher leader because I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and become a leader for our team and students. I am excited to learn more with my team to help our 6th graders."
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Christine NeffChristine is a preschool teacher at Atkins Elementary and a DTL. She has 22 years of teaching experience and shares her expertise with students, families, and colleagues daily. When asked about why she chooses Benton, Christine shared, "Benton Community is not only where my children go go school, but it is also home. There is an instant welcoming feeling when you step foot anywhere in the community."
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Natalie NesbittNatalie is a school counselor and DTL. Natalie serves students at the MS/HS. When asked why she chooses to be a teacher leader, Natalie said, "I enjoy working with students on their personal, social, and academic needs. I hope to be a positive student advocate by using the education and expertise that I have acquired over the years."
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Emily O'ConnellEmily is the secondary special education DTL. She fell into teaching special education by chance and now cannot imagine teaching something else. Emily's belief in collective teacher efficacy is strong and it is making a positive impact within her data team. "I love the collaboration piece within our special education CL/DT. I believe our different perspectives, strengths, and experiences helps meet the needs of all of our students."
When asked why she continues to choose Benton, Emily said, "Benton was my first job, but I choose to stay at Benton because of the friendships I have made with colleagues, the relationships I have created with students, and the opportunities Benton has given me." |
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Emily SchulteEmily is the secondary ELA Data Team Leader. She has been teaching at Benton for 9 years, but blue and gold runs through her veins. "My husband and I enjoyed our experiences at Benton (PK-12) and we wanted the same for our family. Benton has a true emphasis on family!" When asked about why she chooses to be a teacher leader, Emily shared about the impact coaching cycles have had on her practice. "My coaching cycles have challenged my way of thinking, have encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone, have helped me focus on intentionality, and have made me a better teacher. Because of my growth in the beginning, I knew I wanted to surround myself with a team of people that would continue to challenge me, help me grow, and continue to feed my passion for teaching." Reading is Emily's passion and she strives to help students develop a love of reading.
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Alyssa SchmueckerComing Soon
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Jeremy SuiterJeremy is a teacher on the CTE team at Benton CSD. He primarily teachers business and accounting courses, but also enjoys teaching/coaching Bobcats on the court and on the course. He shared that he chose to be a Teacher Leader because he enjoys collaborating with other educators and he enjoy the challenge of helping other people become the best person they can. When asked why he continues to chose Benton, he shared, "Simple answer, the people. We have great students, great staff members, and great administration. It is a great place to be."
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Jamie TellgenhoffJamie is the World Languages DTL. She also serves as the secondary ELL teacher. When asked why she chooses to be at teacher leader, Jamie shared, "I choose to be a teacher leader because I want to continue to learn and share my learning with others." Jamies ties to Benton run deep. "I choose Benton because of our community. I love the students and staff we have here and choose Benton because I want my family to be surrounded by this group of people."
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Marisa Terry
Marisa is a kindergarten teacher at Keystone Elementary. Marisa's servant leadership qualities are evident, even in her thoughts on why she sought a teacher leadership role. "By moving to a leadership role, it allows me to dig deeper into understanding the data team process, collaborate with other colleagues in the district, and step out of my comfort zone. Being a teacher leader provides me the opportunity to use my voice as well as be an active listener to others." When asked why she continues to chose Benton, Marisa shared, "I choose Benton because it's home. It's a place where all kids, staff, and community members can come and feel welcomed."
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