Faculty & Staff | Holy Family Kirkland Parish School

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Faculty & Staff

Susan Webster, Principal

Susan Webster

Principal

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Susan Webster, Principal

Karen McGlynn

Enrollment, Marketing & Auction Director

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Emily Campbell, HFK Development Director

Emily Campbell

Development Director

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Emily Campbell, HFK Development Director

Suzanne Malcolm

Secretary

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Emily Campbell, HFK Development Director

Michele Pederson

Administrative Support

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Susan Webster, Principal

Matt Gallant

Technology Administrator

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Susan Webster, Principal

Mary Powers

Counselor, Inclusion Head

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Susan Webster, Principal

Michelle Sakaguchi

Kids Club Administrator

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Susan Webster, Principal

Denise Farthing

Kindergarten

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Susan Webster, Principal

Shannon Benson

Kindergarten

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Danielle Peterson

1st Grade

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Karen Madden

2nd Grade

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Macaire Podell

3rd Grade

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Susan Webster, Principal

Katie Hall

4th Grade

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Susan Webster, Principal

William McKinnon

5th Grade

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Susan Webster, Principal

Andrew Walker

Grade 6 Homeroom
MS Technology, MS Humanities, MS Religion

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Susan Webster, Principal

Danny Bailey

Grade 7 Homeroom
MS Math, MS Religion

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Susan Webster, Principal

Eileen Olson

Grade 8 Homeroom
MS Humanities

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Susan Webster, Principal

Judy Barrere

MS Science, MS Coordinator

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Susan Webster, Principal

Barbara Mann

MS Math

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Susan Webster, Principal

Lucy Macaulay

MS Speech

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Susan Webster, Principal

Leslie Oja

Learning Specialist, Inclusion

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Susan Webster, Principal

Fran Leitch

Reading Specialist

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Susan Webster, Principal

Maria Radtke

Math Resource Specialist

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Susan Webster, Principal

Megan D'Ambrosio

Library

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Susan Webster, Principal

Maria Guzman

Spanish

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Susan Webster, Principal

Whitney McKelvey

PE, Technology

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Susan Webster, Principal

Stacey Porter

Music, MS Handbells, MS Theatre Arts

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Susan Webster, Principal

Trish White

Art, MS Religion

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Susan Webster, Principal

Susan Bureau

Kindergarten IA

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Susan Webster, Principal

Elsa Walters

Kindergarten IA

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Susan Webster, Principal

Indy Behrman

Kindergarten IA

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Susan Webster, Principal

Madeleine Lapke

1st Grade IA

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Susan Webster, Principal

Daisy Heredia

2nd Grade IA

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Susan Webster, Principal

Christina Laliberte

3rd Grade IA

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Susan Webster, Principal

Diane Pizzuto

4th/5th Grade IA

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Susan Webster, Principal

Jennifer Nedeltchev

Middle School IA

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Susan Webster, Principal

Rosina Knox

Middle School IA

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Susan Webster, Principal

Stephanie Riley

Preschool Director, PreK

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Susan Webster, Principal

Martie Shuk

Preschool I

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Susan Webster, Principal

JoAnn Frogget

Preschool IA

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Susan Webster, Principal

Karen Sumner

Preschool IA

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Susan Webster, Principal

Adali Cruz Barrios

Kids’ Club Aide

Susan Webster, Principal

Emily Funston

Kids’ Club Aide

Susan Webster, Principal

Emma Hunter

Kids’ Club Aide

Susan Webster, Principal

Jenny Landeverde

Kids’ Club Aide

Susan Webster

Our principal, Susan Webster, comes to Holy Family Parish School beginning with the 2019-2020 school year. Susan has a BA in elementary education from the University of Washington and a Master’s degree in special education from Wright State University in Ohio. She received her administration credentials from the University of Washington and has been an assistant principal for the last 6 years at Spiritridge and Clyde Hill Elementary Schools. During her time in the Bellevue School District Susan has taught 8th Grade language arts and social studies, has been a 4th Grade teacher, a K-8 special education teacher, taught in Bellevue’s K-5 elementary gifted program, and has been an instructional coach.

Mary Powers

Hi there! My name is Mary Powers and I am the school counselor here at HFK. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from The Catholic University of America and a Masters Degree in Clinical and Macro Social Work from The Catholic University of America. I love working with kids because of their resiliency and positive spirit no matter what life throws at them. I believe educating and informing kids about their own mental health and well-being from a young age will create better futures for themselves and their families.

I believe that helping students have positive social, emotional, and academic experiences is vital to their growth as humans. My goal when working with students is to help them realize their strengths and work on ways to reach their goals. At HFK, we strive to be inclusive of all students with different learning abilities and focus on the educational of the whole child. Whether I am teaching a classroom lesson, hosting a group counseling lunch, or meeting with the parents of a student, I am always working to support students and families of the HFK community.

Denise Farthing

Education
B.A. in Psychology and Speech Communications from University of Washington, K-8 endorsed in Speech and Psychology

Began teaching in 1992.
Teaching at Holy Family since 2002.

What I love about teaching at Holy Family School

Every day is a new day of learning and growing. It is so fun to watch the children develop in their learning and social skills from September until the end of the year. It is always fast paced and exciting in kindergarten! I love teaching at Holy Family because we have a wonderful parent and teacher community. We all work together for the benefit of the children.

Why I became a teacher:

I love teaching because I’ve always appreciated learning new things and I love the creativity involved in teaching kindergarteners reading, writing, math and religion. They are so fun to work with each day. I find that with each theme I always learn something new too, whether it be about frogs or teaching them stories about a saint. I enjoy meeting all of the new families each year and helping them get accustomed to school life. Teaching is always exciting and never the same year to year!

Favorite Scripture Verse:
“Love God with all your heart, with all your mind and all your strength. Love your neighbor as yourself.”

Shannon Benson

Education
B.A. English Literature – University of Washington

Teaching Certificate/Education – Western Washington University

M.A.Ed. – Seattle University
Teaching at Holy Family since 2019.

Why I became a teacher:

I became a teacher because I enjoy watching children grow as they become independent, confident, and engaged learners who thrive socially and academically. It is an honor to be an integral part of a child’s educational journey and to work in a caring, communicative, and collaborative manner with students and families. It is such a blessing to be able to experience those moments when strengths are discovered, interests are expressed, and talents are shared.

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

Danielle Peterson

Education
B.S., Early Childhood Education and Family Life Studies Northern Michigan University

Began teaching in 2000
Teaching at Holy Family since 2016

What I love about teaching first grade at Holy Family School:

There is so much that I love about teaching, but what I love the most is the pure joy in the children’s faces when they have just accomplished something they never knew they could. I love seeing the growth from the beginning of the year to the end of the year and showing that growth to not only the parents but to the children themselves. I feel God has blessed each of us with a special gift and I believe teaching young children is my gift. My goal is to foster a love of learning in all students.

Why I became a teacher:
Ever since I was a little girl there was always two things I wanted to be when I grew up: a mom and a teacher. I love being a mom and being a teacher is the icing on the cake. Teaching is my passion!

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

Karen Madden

Education
B.S., Biology with English Minor, Santa Clara University
B.A., Early Childhood Education, City University of Seattle
Washington State P-3 Certificate with Endorsement in Literacy

Began teaching in 2014.
Teaching at Holy Family since 2019.

What I love about teaching second grade at Holy Family School:
Teaching is such a challenging and rewarding profession. There are so many personalities and areas of interest to explore. Second grade is still a time for mastering the methods of learning, but there are enough tools to begin exploring topics on a deeper level. I am very excited to be a part of the students’ study and completion of two of our very special sacraments – First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. There are only seven sacraments and I get to help teach two of them? I am so lucky and honored!

Why I became a teacher:
My first career was working in the biotech industry as I love science, especially genetics. I worked at the Hutch and then ZymoGenetics, but soon “retired” to raise my three wonderful boys. Taking care of children is in my blood. My father is a retired pediatrician, my sister was a teacher, and I have been babysitting since I was 12 years old. I absolutely thrive around young children with their unconditional love, natural curiosity, and infectious laughter. As my children entered school, I decided to go back to school too and get my teaching certificate in Early Childhood Education. Now I have the formal training to nurture children academically as well as socially and emotionally. I love my job!

Favorite Scripture Verse:
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” Proverbs 4:23

Macaire Podell

Education
B.A., Philosophy and History with a Political Science Minor Saint Mary’s College Notre Dame
MAEd, Curriculum and Instruction, Lewis University

What I love about teaching third grade at Holy Family School:
I love coming to school every morning to see the students and I am so privileged that I spend my day with them. Sharing the Catholic faith in class with the students is one way that sets HFK apart from other schools.

Why I became a teacher:
I knew God called me to work with children and truly feel this is my vocation. Every day is a little different and I love the challenge of creating interesting and engaging lessons and watching the students’ eyes light up as they learn.

Favorite Scripture Verse:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 3:3

Katie Hall

Education
B.L.A., Major: English (creative writing), Minor: Sociology, Willamette University
Masters in Teaching, Northwest University

Began teaching in 2019.
Teaching at Holy Family since 2019.

What I love about teaching reading at Holy Family School:
I’m blessed to be a part of Holy Family’s strong, welcoming community. Fourth grade is a milestone for students as they “cross the hall” to the upper grades and are given more responsibility and independence throughout the year than in previous years. As a teacher, being able to spark a student’s “lightbulb” moment at the beginning of the year and watch their learning and confidence transform is an invaluable experience. I’m grateful to be able to inspire each student’s growth academically, socially, and spiritually each day.

Why I became a teacher:
From a young age I’ve wanted to be a teacher and positively impact students lives. I was born prematurely and as a result, I faced learning difficulties as a child. I was able to overcome those challenges with the support of wonderful teachers, aids, specialists, and speech therapists. Consequently, I feel it is my calling to teach and support student’s learning in a variety of methods in order to math their preferred learning style.

Favorite Scripture Verse:
“Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel.” Proverbs 20:15 .

William McKinnon

Education
BA – Business Finance, BA – Accounting, Eastern Washington University
M. Ed. – Administration, Western Washington Univ.

Areas of Advanced Study
Communications, Philosophy

Began teaching in 2000.
Teaching at Holy Family since 2018.

What I love about teaching fifth grade at Holy Family School:
I absolutely love teaching 5th grade! Now, being able to teach at HFK school, I feel blessed to add to the spiritual community. It is fulfilling for me to share in the growth of the faith in our classroom and school. The community of friends and families here at Holy Family Kirkland have been so supportive and welcoming, and I hope to return the kindness by sharing my talents.

Why I became a teacher:
Growing up in a household of teachers – my dad taught chemistry at the Naval Academy and high school math, my step-mom taught high school English, and my sister teaches kindergarten – I knew I wanted to teach, too. Going off to college, I wanted to be a PE teacher, but ended up with business degrees and was an accountant for years. Knowing that I am a people person who loves to serve, I had the opportunity to switch careers in 2000. I love being in schools, the timing of the school year in life, and the community that comes from working with friends, families, and children. My favorite part of teaching is seeing the current students grow, having former students remember our time together fondly, and sharing with families so many wonderful memories.

Favorite Scripture Verse:
…But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD. Joshua 24:15

Andrew Walker

Education
B.A. of History, English Minor, Gonzaga University 2012
Master of Initial Teaching, Gonzaga University 2014

Began teaching in 2015
Teaching at Holy Family since 2018

What I love about teaching at Holy Family School:
I love challenging my students to engage with their world in ways that they had not previously considered and watching as their understanding blossoms into a worldview that will guide their decision making as community members and citizens. My favorite part of the job is forming the relationships that make this learning possible and being present for the myriad moments of both academic and life learning that take place along the way!

Why I became a teacher:
Almost all of the most influential people in my life have been teachers so the decision felt like a natural one. I am very grateful for the guidance and opportunities they have opened for me and want to pay this service forward to my own students.

Favorite Scripture Verse:
Favorite Scripture “Do you not know that in a race, all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” 1 Corinthians 9:24

Danny Bailey

Education
B.A. Theology and Religious Studies, Seattle University
B.A. Mathematics 5-12, Western Governors University

Began teaching in 2009.
Teaching at Holy Family since 2018.

What I love about teaching middle school at Holy Family School:
Middle school is a unique formative time when unique talents and personalities begin to shine the brightest. It is truly a thrilling adventure to support and inspire these young leaders in their endeavors while being a wise mentor for them. Math and religion will continue to be important for the rest of their lives, so it brings me joy to share my passion for these subjects.

Why I became a teacher:
Some of my greatest mentors have been teachers, and many people have told me I should become a teacher. In my first career as a youth minister, I found that doing the actual teaching part of the ministry was one of my greatest strengths. I look forward to bringing my many talents to this new profession.

Favorite Scripture Verse:
“I urge you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, your spiritual worship. Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:1-2

Eileen Olson

Education
B.G.S. from University of Kansas 1987 – Theatre and Media Arts
Master’s in Teaching from City University 2010

Began teaching in 2010.
Teaching at Holy Family since 2015.

What I love about teaching seventh grade at Holy Family School:
Teaching is a creative process. I love creating engaging and interesting lessons for my students. When my students get excited about what they are learning, I feel like I have hit a homerun! I also love the fluidity of teaching; every day, week, month, and year is different. At the top of my very long list of what I love about teaching is that every day I have laughter in my life.

Why I became a teacher:
Teaching is my second career. After many years in the escrow/real estate field, I realized that I needed to find a career that nourished my soul. I knew that I wanted to find a way to try and make a difference in the world. In addition, from my observations of my own children and their educational experiences, I came to understand that there are many different learning styles. Helping my children to become successful learners helped me to realize that I wanted to share my love of teaching and my desire to make learning accessible for all types of learners.

Favorite Scripture Verse:
“Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you” Isaiah 41:10

Judy Barrere

Education
M.S., Science Education, Lesley University/University of Washington
B.S., Education, University of Northern Colorado/Utah State University

Areas of Advanced Study
Brain Research – Adolescent Learning, UW; Teacher Advisory Board Member, Woodland Park Zoo; Board Member and Editorial Review for Science Scope Magazine, Northwest Associate for Biomedical Reseracher – Educational Division; FDA/National Science Teachers Association

Began teaching in 1984.
Teaching at Holy Family since 1998.

What I love about teaching science at Holy Family School:
I have always enjoyed learning new things and teaching science and all the exciting changes in this field has certainly kept me on my feet. I look forward to bringing new materials and new ideas to my students. I believe in the adage, “The one who does the teaching is the one who’s doing the learning.” I have had the privilege of “learning” at Holy Family School for many years now and I appreciate the support of both the school and parents along the way.

Why I became a teacher:
I became a teacher because I wanted to change children’s lives. I wanted children to reach their full potential, to become confident independent learners. I wanted each child to leave my room understanding their unique learning style and to learn to believe in themselves. In the years that have followed, I have realized how much my students have taught me. They have changed my life and I am forever grateful.

Favorite Scripture Verse:
Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46

Leslie Oja

Education
Ed.D.-Doctor of Education: Nova Southeastern University
Dual MSEd:
Reading Specialist: University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point
Mental Health Counseling: Northern Colorado University
BA-Education: Eastern Michigan University

Began teaching in 1981.
Teaching at Holy Family since 2017.

What I love about teaching reading at Holy Family School:
Teaching reading at Holy Family Parish School is rewarding. I enjoy applying my knowledge and experience for the benefit of assisting students both academically and spiritually, as well as to enjoy their environment.

Why I became a teacher:
Each day is a challenge to be sure each student is receiving an education that will provide them with opportunities to live a satisfying life; I am privileged to be part of the community that enables students to achieve their goals.

Favorite Scripture Verse:
“What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”
Phillippians 4:9

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 since 1979.

What I love about teaching reading at Holy Family 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 eighth grade student at St. Joseph’s School in Wenatchee, Washington. I volunteered during lunch recess a few times a week to help some first 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

Education
B.S., Biology with English Minor, Santa Clara University
B.A., Early Childhood Education, City University of Seattle
Washington State P-3 Certificate with Endorsement in Literacy

Began teaching in 2014.
Teaching at Holy Family since 2019.

What I love about teaching second grade at Holy Family School:
Teaching is such a challenging and rewarding profession. There are so many personalities and areas of interest to explore. Second grade is still a time for mastering the methods of learning, but there are enough tools to begin exploring topics on a deeper level. I am very excited to be a part of the students’ study and completion of two of our very special sacraments – First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. There are only seven sacraments and I get to help teach two of them? I am so lucky and honored!

Why I became a teacher:
My first career was working in the biotech industry as I love science, especially genetics. I worked at the Hutch and then ZymoGenetics, but soon “retired” to raise my three wonderful boys. Taking care of children is in my blood. My father is a retired pediatrician, my sister was a teacher, and I have been babysitting since I was 12 years old. I absolutely thrive around young children with their unconditional love, natural curiosity, and infectious laughter. As my children entered school, I decided to go back to school too and get my teaching certificate in Early Childhood Education. Now I have the formal training to nurture children academically as well as socially and emotionally. I love my job!

Favorite Scripture Verse:
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” Proverbs 4:23

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 since 2006.

What I love about teaching math at Holy Family 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

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

Maria Guzman

Education

BA in Business
Washington certified Spanish teacher teaching in the US since 1998

Areas of Advanced Study
K-12 Spanish as a second language
Middle School and High school education
TPR (Total Physical Response) and TPR Storytelling
Differentiated instruction
School administration.

What I love about teaching Spanish:
To teach another language is to slowly open my students’ eyes to a beautiful world hidden from them. Culture and history are an integral part of a language program; a language can’t be fully acquired without understanding the intricacies of its people. I consider myself an ambassador of Mexico; it is an honor and a privilege for me to tell the tales of my ancestors, to be a witness to the wonder my students experience in discovering our world is beautiful, precisely because of all the different peoples, languages, and customs that share its space. Speaking another language places my students much closer to becoming citizens of the world; to play a role as their teacher is simply fantastic! “A different language is a different vision of life”, Federico Fellini

Why I became a teacher:
It started suddenly… My son and daughter’s French High School teacher asked me to consider teaching Spanish for the following school year. I had been a stay-home mom since I was pregnant, but now that my kids were in High School and soon to leave for college, I had started thinking about doing something with my time. I said yes to the opportunity almost immediately, this was God-sent! Even though I had taught Middle School ESL (English as a second language) in Mexico, this was very new and exciting! That first year at St Thomas Aquinas HS was amazing but tough; I was teaching three classes and working towards my certification at the same time, but it was so worth it! It took me very little time to realize that teaching is my passion; I’ve always been a teacher at heart and teaching brings me an immeasurable joy! I am so proud of all of my students and their accomplishments! After teaching 2 years in Mexico, 9 years in New Hampshire and 6 years in Massachusetts, three years ago I came to Seattle to start the Spanish program at Holy Family, what an honor!

Two Favorite Scripture Verses:
Now the word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:4-5
Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. Romans 12:6-8

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 .

Stacey Porter

Education
Bachelors in Music from Ball State University

Began teaching in 2005.
Teaching at Holy Family since 2015.

What I love about teaching at Holy Family School

What I love most about teaching is seeing the joy children experience from trying and learning something new, and their continued joy when they’ve mastered that new skill. For music, I especially love hearing them sing for God! It warms my heart to see their love and zeal for the Lord.

Why I became a teacher:

As a child, one of the only “games” I really enjoyed playing was Teacher. I would take my mother’s college text books, study a page and then teach it to my pretend classroom. I loved doing that! I found as I got older I was still teaching (to real people, this time) and enjoying it immensely. I attended Catholic School for grades K – 8, and I always admired my teachers and what they did for us each day. I am so grateful for the opportunity to teach at Holy Family; to freely share my love for teaching music, technology and most importantly God!

Favorite Scripture Verse:
Come, let us sing joyfully to the LORD; cry out to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with a song of praise, joyfully sing out our psalms. ” Psalm 95: 1-2.

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

Stephanie Riley

Stephanie Riley, Preschool Director and Preschool II and Pre-K Teacher, loves being a part of the Holy Family Parish Preschool community and team. Stephanie earned a B.A. in Early Childhood Education with Special Education from Eastern Washington University and an M.A. from Swansea University, Wales. She has been teaching at Holy Family for 12 years. She enjoys working with children and coaching volleyball. Stephanie lives in Kirkland with her husband, Patrick, & son and daughter. She loves to watch her students discover new concepts and grow spiritually every day. Stephanie loves to play volleyball, cook, and spend time with her family.

Marti Shuk

For the past nineteen years, I have been working at Holy Family Parish in various capabilities. During the first thirteen years, I taught first grade and for the past six years I have been in the preschool. I graduated from Central Washington University and am certified in elementary and special education. At HFK, we begin instilling the Christian values of care, compassion, and respect for others at an early age. The preschoolers are involved in all of HFK’s many community service projects. and religion is incorporated in all areas of our curriculum. I feel it is a privilege to work at Holy Family. We are blessed with a very supportive staff and parent community!

ABOUT HFK

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About Holy Family Parish School Kirkland

Our mission is to inspire, educate and prepare students for a Christ-centered life of learning, faith and service. This has been our mission since our doors opened in 1957…and continues to be our mission today.

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HFK has a unique values-based education focused on each child’s academic, social and emotional potential, designed to build critical thinkers, confident learners and contributing leaders of our global community.

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Beyond the HFK Classroom

From our strong athletic program, to our emphasis on the arts, to our varied clubs, camps, and our before and after school care, a Holy Family education enriches the whole child.

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Community

School Leadership

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HFK Students, Staff and Parents working together

HFK is more than a rigorous academic education…we are an embracing and inclusive community of staff, students, parents, alumni and supporters.

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Support HFK

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Endowment & Legacy Giving

Creating a Culture of Giving

The many and varied contributions of time, talent and treasure we receive from our parents, staff, parish community, grandparents, local businesses, and others enable HFK to continue to thrive and offer an exceptional education to all students. We invite you to join our team of Guardian Angels!

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