Specialists

Learning to read is exciting, and reading is the basis for all learning! Our reading specialist teams up with classroom teachers, students, and parents in order to help each child reach his or her full potential. This is accomplished through full group, small group, and one-on-one instruction both within the classroom and in our learning support center.

Parents are a critical part of each child’s learning team. Our reading specialist provide materials and tactics to parents to be used at home, reinforcing the skills learned at school.

Fran Leitch

 

 

 

 

Education
B.A., Communication Disorders/Elementary Education, Gonzaga University
M.A., Teaching, Grand Canyon University

Areas of Advanced Study
Interventions for Struggling Students in Reading, Writing, & Math.

Began teaching in 1979.
Teaching at Holy Family Parish School since 1979.

What I love about teaching reading at Holy Family Parish School:
I love the students, parents, staff members, and our parish community at Holy Family. Where can you work and receive so many blessings in a single day? I can share my faith, knowledge, and love with the children who are the future of our society and Church. What an awesome opportunity and responsibility!

Why I became a teacher:
I first realized that I would like to be a teacher when I was an 8th grade student at St. Joseph’s School in Wenatchee, Washington. I volunteered during lunch recess a few times a week to help some 1st graders with their reading or math. As time went by, this interest, coupled with many babysitting jobs along the way, convinced me that a profession in teaching was my calling, especially in a Catholic learning environment.

Favorite Scripture Verse:
“I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

 

The K-8 math curriculum is designed to help students learn to think critically as mathematicians who are preparing for real-world careers. We strive to have our students master math skills on three levels—through their calculations, through models and diagrams, and through reading and writing using mathematical language about their thinking. Our math specialist works with teachers to develop grade-specific math curriculum and strategies as well as with students in full group, small group, and one-on-one instruction to ensure all students are working at a pace that is right for them. For example, the math specialist facilitates some students working ahead in their own classrooms or in small groups with students in older grades.

Maria Radtke

 

 

 

Education
M. Ed., Reading and Literacy
B.A., History, Teaching Certificate – Elementary Education, Supporting Endorsement – History, Gonzaga University

Areas of Advanced Study
Professional Certification, Seattle Pacific University

Began teaching in 2005.
Teaching at Holy Family Parish School since 2006.

What I love about teaching math at Holy Family Parish School:
What I love about teaching math at Holy Family Parish School is enthusiastic students! The students are independent, eager, and positive individuals. Their excitement about learning is contagious and inspires me to prepare and plan engaging and thoughtful lessons. Together, we love working on long-term projects, solving critical-thinking questions, and discussing our thinking. I love that our students are thoughtful and have opinions. They are willing to take risks in the classroom and in their learning, and they know that their classmates and teachers will help catch them if they make a mistake. They are willing to share their thoughts on their personal faith and how they pray, which is the foundation of our school.

Why I became a teacher:
I became a teacher because I’ve always loved school. As a child, during summer breaks I was always trying to coax my sister and neighbor friends to play school with me so I could practice being a teacher. I was extremely blessed to have attended Catholic school from elementary all the way through college. I knew that I wanted my teaching career to be in the Catholic schools. I love teaching because every day is different, and every child brings something positive to my life.

Favorite Scripture Verse:
“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24

Our student support specialist works with the school counselor and alongside the teachers, administration and parents to attend to the academic and social/emotional health of HFK students. 

Some of the ways that the student support specialist supports students include developing Educational Adjustment plans by including learning strengths and challenges. Supporting students and teachers to implement learning plans with long terms goals and objectives. Working individually and/or small group intervention and remediation both in and out of the classroom. Assisting students in scheduling Occupational Therapy and/or Speech and Language therapy supports on school premise. Assisting in obtaining an external clinical evaluation. Liaising with external professionals regarding students learning needs. Helping implement behavior intervention supports both at school and home. Helping students develop executive function skills such as homework management and organization. Encouraging students to be advocates for themselves and confident learners. 

Kal Heathe

 

 

 

 

Education:

AAS-Early Childhood Education with an endorsement in Special Education.

Areas of Advanced Study:

Certified in Positive Behavior Supports.

What I love about teaching at Holy Family School:

Holy Family School fosters a supportive and inclusive environment where we collaborate as a team to positively impact students’ lives and education. At HFK, I value being part of a faith-based community that embraces acceptance and focuses on nurturing individual strengths for growth.

Why I became a teacher:

Over the past 23 years, I’ve had the honor of working in various support needs environments, where I’ve gained extensive knowledge through hands-on experiences with diverse age groups, roles, and countries. My journey began in Canada as an Early Childhood Educator, teaching 3–5-year-olds. Subsequently, I transitioned to the role of a Child Development Consultant, specializing in inclusive practices within student-related group environments and developing evidence-based behavior plans.

Afterward, I relocated to Hong Kong, where I resided for 14 years. During my time there, I had the privilege of working as part of a multi-disciplinary team, contributing to formal assessment testing. I am deeply passionate about learning and thrive in environments that prioritize quality education and tailor learning practices to students’ strengths. I strongly believe in empowering students to reach their full potential and feel confident in their abilities.

For me, education is a collaborative effort, and I find fulfillment in environments that value parents as advocates and provide teachers and students with the necessary resources to achieve success in their development.

Favorite scripture verse:

“Let all that you do be done in love.” Corinthians 16:14

 

Our school counselor works alongside teachers, families, and administration to support the social/emotional well-being of students. At HFK, we believe that a student’s social emotional well-being and mental health are very important because they impact a student’s ability to achieve academic success.

The school counselor provides individual and group short-term counseling as well as lunch groups focused on appropriate grade level topics. The counselor is in constant communication with teachers and parents when they have a concern about their student and how they can be impacting their ability to learn and fully engage in the classroom. Goals and plans are brainstormed to support the student in whatever area needs attention. The school counselor oversees the Educational Adjustments Plans (EAP’s) of students from Preschool-8th grade which include accommodations and adjustments in the classroom for students with differing learning needs and abilities. She also manages the schoolwide SEL education program, and 2nd step. The counselor provides out-of-school referrals for both academic and social/emotional needs to families. HFK strives to be a school that fosters the health and growth of the full person preparing students for their futures.

Shannon Benson

 

 

 

 

My name is Shannon Benson and I’m the school counselor at HFK. I am starting my fifth year of being on staff at this fine school, and I look forward to combining my teaching skills and counseling experience to contribute to the success of our students.

My education consists of a B.A. in English Literature from the University of Washington, Certification in Teaching from Western Washington University, and a M.A.Ed. in Mental Health Counseling from Seattle University. My education and mental health experience combines being a Teacher at K-8 schools, leading as a Supervisor and Child Mental Health Specialist for two child mental health programs, and assisting the legal system as a Guardian ad Litem for the courts.

I hope to foster partnerships between students, staff, and families as we work in collaboration to promote academic, social, and emotional growth. My focus will be to encourage and nurture students through respectful interactions and positive relationships. Students will be encouraged to recognize their strengths as they implement effective coping skills in a climate that cultivates acceptance, empathy, and perseverance.

The Holy Family School Library seeks to inspire, educate, and prepare our students to be lifelong learners and voracious readers! In the library, we engage students in reading, ignite students’ curiosity, and practice locating information for inquiry and research.

Students in Kindergarten-5th Grade come to the library each week. Students practice selecting books for enjoyment, focus on finding books at their independent reading level, and spend time learning how to search for books using Destiny Quest, our online catalog. Intermediate students conduct research projects and use our online databases to locate reliable information. In addition, Library Service Club is open to 5th graders who serve as volunteers in the library once a week and help keep the library organized.

Middle school students come to their library with their humanities class to read and select books. Optional book clubs are available for Middle School students to connect and discuss books together. In addition, the library is open for middle school students to come in during lunch recess to read, do homework, or just recharge.

Megan D’Ambrosio

 

 

 

 

Education
BA English and Elementary Education Teaching Certificate from Gonzaga University
Master’s Degree of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Seattle University in 2006 with a special emphasis on literacy.

What I love about teaching in the library at Holy Family School:
I love being the librarian at Holy Family school because each child comes to school with a sense of wonder and an enthusiasm for learning! I love especially love the look of excitement on students’ faces when they discover a new book they love! Holy Family Parish School is such a special community. It is truly a family for all of the students, parents and staff.

Why I became a teacher:
I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. Teaching is truly my passion! I love children and want to serve others and to help others. Teaching allows me to work with children and help them be the best they can be. Watching children learn, develop skills, challenge themselves, use their creativity and grow in God’s love, is what I love about teaching. I feel blessed to be a teacher at Holy Family School!.

Favorite Scripture Verse:
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

The Technology curriculum at HFK for 2nd-5th grade is designed to give our students experience with 21st Century Literacy skills they will need to succeed in the modern classroom and workplace.  From Kindergarten through 8th Grade, our students will have experience with a full range of Office products, learn to communicate safely and effectively with electronic tools such as email, and work with the basics of programming and robotics.  Our curriculum has connections with other disciplines that help reinforce what our students are learning in their other classes.

Andrea Ann Bayer

 

 

 

 

Education
Bachelor’s degree in education, Mahatma Gandhi University
Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, Mahatma Gandhi University

Areas of Advanced Study
Washington State Teacher Certified, with an endorsement in Middle School Mathematics.

Teaching at Holy Family since 2022.

What I love about teaching Technology at Holy Family School:
At Holy Family, the  students are respectful and always eager to learn. The experiences of teaching and learning are both academic and spiritual and this has helped me in all areas of my life.

This year I’m excited to teach Technology to grades 1 to 5. I love the idea of integrating classroom instruction with technology. In my tech classes, my goal is to create a learning environment where students are actively engaged, and growing in knowledge.

Why I became a teacher:
The teachers in my family, which includes my mom inspired me to take up this profession. Their passion and dedication taught me many a lesson. I love the fact that teachers can mold their students into kind, thoughtful and responsible beings. To create that positive impact in a child’s life is what I always strive for.

Favorite Scripture Verse:
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; counsel you with my loving eye on you.” Psalm 32:8.

When you ask elementary students to name their favorite class, many will enthusiastically exclaim, “P.E.!” At HFK, our P.E. curriculum is designed to expose students to a wide range of sports and skills in a safe environment, encouraging teamwork and sportsmanship. P.E. increases student confidence in their physical abilities and has the added benefit of helping students recognize and appreciate the fun that can be had away from screens in their personal lives. A major goal of our physical education program is for each student to become motivated to live an active and healthy lifestyle and learn to take care of the body with which God blessed them.

Whitney McKelvey

 

 

 

 

Education
B.A., Public Relations and General Business, Gonzaga University
M.A., Teaching, Pacific University

Areas of Advanced Study
Endorsements in Physical Education, Elementary and Middle School general studies

Began teaching in 2018.

Teaching at Holy Family since 2018.

What I love about teaching PE at Holy Family School:
I love coming to school each day ready to help motivate students to be active and practice sportsmanship. I enjoy challenging students to participate in sports they would have never considered trying. Watching a student first struggle and then accomplish a task can be so rewarding and a positive ripple effect not just in athletics, but in all areas of life.

Why I became a teacher:
I became a teacher because I felt that too many young adults were focusing on academics, but not learning the importance of living a healthy and active lifestyle. I wanted to teach in a classroom where I had the freedom to take teaching moments and expand on students’ passions. I feel blessed to be part of a community like HFK.

Favorite Scripture Verse:
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:6.

The Visual Art Program at Holy Family School gives students the opportunity to express their creativity through a variety of art forms and techniques, including drawing, painting, sculpting, and printmaking. Students are encouraged through hands-on experiences to develop understanding and appreciation of different art forms and artists. Students in Grades K-8 come to the art room once a week and explore different art mediums to develop an understanding of the elements and principles of design and to make connections to other disciplines.

Trish White

 

 

 

 

Education
B.A. Elementary Education K-8, Sociology 4-12 from Western Washington University 1998
M.A. in Teaching from Grand Canyon University 2003

Began teaching in 2000.
Teaching at Holy Family since 2014.

What I love about teaching art at Holy Family School:
I believe that teaching is an incredible profession. Each day at Holy Family you have the opportunity to excite a student about art and support them in their personal and spiritual growth. Teaching means having trust and respect toward one another as student and teacher. I love getting to know my students, learning their talents, celebrating their successes, and watching them blossom.

Why I became a teacher:
I could not think of any profession more important and more satisfying on a daily basis. When I began teaching I could not imagine doing anything else. I knew I could make a difference in a child’s life by helping them reach their full potential and develop a strong relationship with God.

Favorite Scripture Verse:
“Do not let your hearts be troubled, trust in God.” John 14:1

Music, both vocal and instrumental, plays an important role in the education of students at Holy Family. Besides being fun, engaging, and a great outlet for creativity, music also develops the area of the brain responsible for language and reasoning and inspires self-confidence. At HFK, music is primarily vocal in Preschool-Grade 5 with the addition of ORF instruments. Beginning in Grade 6, the focus turns to instrumental with instruction in guitar, ukulele, keyboard, and what we like to call the team sport of music – handbells. Middle school students are also able to become members of our optional Honor Choir, which participates at weekly all-school Masses and other events within the school and the greater community.

Anna Linde

 

Theatre Arts at HFK is offered to our 7th and 8th Grade students. In this course, they explore the elements of theatre including play writing, creation of scenes and sets, and performances. Theatre Arts helps stimulate creativity in problem solving, improves public speaking and communication skills, provides students an outlet for their thoughts and emotions, and helps to develop tolerance and empathy.

Andrew Sprute

 

Presentation and public speaking skills are critical skills in our adult world. At HFK, students are presented with many public speaking and presentation opportunities beginning in kindergarten. Our Sixth Grade Introduction to Speech Program is designed to help students find their voice and communicate with confidence. Through interactive lessons and practical exercises, students will learn the fundamentals of public speaking, including speech writing, delivery techniques, and audience engagement. This program not only enhances communication skills but also boosts self-esteem and critical thinking. Sixth graders will discover the art of effective speaking in a supportive and fun environment!

Andrew Sprute