Faculty Profiles
Catlin Gabel teachers are wise, dedicated, expert, approachable, and supportive. In a word, they are amazing. Our teachers are more than the sum of their credentials and previous work experience. We asked our teachers five questions that would reveal something about our their personalities. Each teacher chose one question to answer.
What was a great Catlin Gabel experience you've had lately?
What is your favorite movie, play, book, or pastime? Why?
What brought you to Catlin Gabel (if you are new to the school), or why do you like working at Catlin Gabel?
What is one surprising thing about you?
Who was an influential teacher?
Limit by division: Upper School | Middle School | Lower School | Beginning School
| April Alexander, kindergarten teaching assistant, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in English literature, University of Oregon. |
| Paul Andrichuk, MS learning specialist, at CG since 1997. Bachelor's in history, Oberlin College. Master's in school counseling, Johns Hopkins University. Paul's answer is pending. |
| Deirdre Atkinson, MS arts & drama teacher, at CG since 2004. Bachelor's in theater, Willamette University. I grew up watching the San Francisco Mime Troupe and the Pickle Family Circus in the parks of San Francisco (in those summers after the one of love), but the first real play I remember seeing was "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at the Joyce Theater. They allowed the audience to go up on stage during intermission, and a star was born. I made my professional debut at age 11, sharing the stage with Placido Domingo in "Carmen" with the San Francisco Opera. I enjoy working with Middle Schoolers as we turn our Chipmunk Hollow theater into a different world every six weeks. That little tool shed has been transformed into a Scottish heath, a beach-blanket seascape, a far-away planet, Dracula's castle, a world-class museum, the Wild West, Verona, ancient India, a honky-tonk diner, the star ship Enterprise, and any number of dramatic little holes in the wall. |
| Chris Bell, MS administrative assistant. |
| Maggie Bendicksen, 5th grade teacher, at CG since 2002. Bachelor's in English, Amherst College. Master's in education, Lewis & Clark College. |
| Ali Berg, LS science teacher, at CG since 2013. Bachelor's in environmental education, Western Washington University. Master's in teaching, Willamette University. |
| Carrie Blank, LS/MS PE teacher, at CG since 2005. Bachelor's in anthropology, Humboldt State University. Bachelor's in physical education, Illinois State University. Master's in education, Lewis & Clark College. |
| Katie Boehnlein, 5th grade teaching assistant, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in environmental studies & English, Seattle University. |
| Bob Bonaparte, jv ii boys soccer coach. |
| Genevieve Bouwes, assistant lower school head, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in geography, University of Wisconsin-Madison. Master's in education, Bankstreet College of Education. |
| Leondra Brackett, kindergarten teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in psychology, Whitman College. Master's in teaching with art endorsement, Lewis & Clark College. |
| Briana Britton, kindergarten teaching assistant, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in psychology, Mills College. |
| Rachel Brown, 1st grade teacher, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in Spanish literature, Washington University in St. Louis. Master's in childhood general & special education, Bank Street College of Education. |
| Glenn Burnett, US student activities director, at CG since 1996. Bachelor's in music, Pacific Lutheran University. Master's in education, Portland State University. After teaching music for 26 years, I am excited to assist students in their co-curriuclar experiences at CG. I work with students in clubs & activities, community service, assemblies, Winterim, and yearbook production. |
| Lauren Burns, LS learning specialist. Bachelor's in elementary education, Illinois State University. Master's in reading and literacy, Benedictine University. What is your favorite book? My current favorite book series is "The Game of Thrones" series by George RR Martin. I am currently on book three. The plot is intense and the characters are complex. I really enjoy how the plot is unfolded through various character perspectives and different time periods throughout the story. They are very long books, but Martin supplies many twists that keep you wanting more!
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| Blythe Butler, associate director of college counseling, at CG since 2010. Bachelor's in English, Willamette University. Master's in writing, Portland State University. Ballet Shoes, by Noel Streatfeild, still sits next to my favorite reading chair. Its three young protagonists study, work and perform in London theatres during World War II to support their family. I wanted to climb right into the story, and I credit it for seeding many of my eventual goals and passions - living in London, dancing, writing, art, and travel. |
| Len Carr, assistant middle school head, at CG since 1989. Bachelor's in social sciences, Evergreen State College. Who was an influential teacher? Manvel Schauffler was an inspirational teacher and colleague of mine. As a student, Schauff lived a life and ran a school that was committed to blurring the lines between education inside classrooms and outside of them. He inspired me to organize my senior class 10-day Outward Bound outing into the Sisters, OR Wilderness Area. He taught me to drive a split axel, 5 gear, split axle - double-clutching-required rental truck on Caravan Day when we moved Rummage from the sorting center to the Coliseum. As a colleague at Bush School in Seattle, together we worked with students and families exploring the opportunities for learning inherent in hands-on experiential situations as well as the more traditional classroom setting. Whether teaching US history, sailing a boat or driving a school bus, Schauff exemplified for me progressive education, a zest for teaching and life, and a passion for the positive spirit in others.
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| Li-Ling Cheng, MS Chinese teacher, at CG since 2005. Bachelor's in occupational therapy, National Taiwan University School of Medicine. Master's in occupational therapy, New York University School of Education. Growing up in Taiwan I had never heard of mushroom hunting, which has become my favorite pastime since moving to Oregon. With a little rain, mushrooms are the best and most reliable gift nature offers. I enjoy adventuring into the woods, with the wind whistling and streams gurgling in the background, in search of my preferred mushrooms. The hunting trip does not always guarantee harvest, but I do appreciate the time I spend in nature.
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| Dennis Christman, US library assistant, at CG since 2013. Bachelor's in computer science, Indiana University of Pennsylvania. |
| Brendan Clark, LS PE teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in anthropology, Willamette University. Master's in teaching, Lewis & Clark College. |
| Galen Cobb, 1st grade teaching assistant, at CG since 2010. Bachelor's in sociology, Whitman College. |
| Lesley Darr, asc teaching assistant, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in social sciences, Portland State University. |
| Mike Davis, head girls golf coach, at CG since 1988. Bachelor's in physical education, St. Luke's College, England. Master's in physical education, University of Oregon. Doctorate in physical education, University of Oregon. |
| Michael de Forest, LS woodshop teacher, at CG since 1996. Bachelor's in sociology, Lewis & Clark College. Master's in visual studies, Minneapolis College of Art & Design.
In 1970 I made a bookshelf out of leftover 2 x 6s using a handsaw, a hammer, and nails. My friend Lee admired my work. I was very pleased. Four years later, I was a youth counselor looking for a career change. Lee, in the meantime, had begun designing and making hardwood furniture. After I begged and pleaded, Lee relented and hired me as his apprentice. Decades later, I bumped into Lee. He told me that when he had admired my 2 x 6 bookshelf, made with only hand tools and no training, he decided that woodworking might be something he could do. He had approached two furniture makers, begged them for a job, and was hired as an apprentice. When he hired me as an apprentice, he was working for the guys who took a chance on him. No wonder he took a chance on me, a chance that launched me on a 35-year journey as a woodworker and a teacher of woodworking.
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| Natalie Dickinson, MS PE teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in interdisiplinary studies, University of San Diego. Master's in teaching, University of Portland. |
| Paul Dickinson, US science teacher, at CG since 1969. Bachelor's in biology, University of Connecticut. Master's in education, Portland State University. |
| Sara Dier, teaching and learning center administrative assistant, at CG since 2010. My favorite pastime is photography. The whole concept of capturing a photograph, processing the film, and manipulating the image is fascinating. I often spend my free time with a lense at my eye, ready for whatever happens. |
| Raluca Dinca, assistant varsity girls volleyball coach. |
| Marcelle Donehower, 3rd grade teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in /political science, Lewis & Clark College. Master's in early childhood/elementary, Lewis & Clark College. |
| Paul Donohoe, US English teacher, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in English and American literature, Harvard University. Master's in victorian literature, Oxford University. |
| Brendan Douglas, jv girls soccer coach, at CG since 2010. |
| Lynda Douglas, 7th grade math teacher, at CG since 1998. Bachelor's in biology, Lewis & Clark College. Master's in biology, University of Chicago. Catlin Gabel's natural beauty and close community of progressive and dedicated educators resonates perfectly with my view of what an educational setting should be. My love for math grew from the influence of two very strong math teachers: Virginia Bartell in high school and Elva Fredrickson in college. My first teaching job at the progressive Green Acres School (also on the site of an old farm) cemented and foretold my future. It all came together at Catlin - a beautiful setting in which progressive ideals are held protectively in the hands of inspiring colleagues and where I can share mathematics with my students as simply another way by which to know the world. How lucky I am to have come to this place.
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| Marion Edens, US science teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in microbiology, University of Otago. Doctorate in biological sciences, Aston University. |
| Ema Eldredge, 8th grade math teacher, at CG since 2004. Bachelor's in mathematics, Pacific University. |
| David Ellenberg, 8th grade history teacher, at CG since 1991. Bachelor's in biology, Brown University. Master's in education, Portland State University. Mr. Molnia was my social studies teacher in 8th grade. He was smart and sharp-witted, and treated me with respect in an era when there was a lot of tension between students and their instructors. Mr. Molnia expected me to think critically about issues current and historic, and he pushed me to defend what I shared with reasoned responses. One lesson stands out. In a Queens neighborhood where Holocaust survivors were many, Mr. Molnia asked the class to list some of the atrocities committed by the Nazi regime. We then generated another list of punishments that we believed the Nazi leadership deserved. Although the lists were not identical in specific content, the two contained some surprisingly similar methodologies. It was clear that vengeance was a preferred aspect of the second list. The debrief was heartfelt and difficult. Seeing the summative lists side by side on the board implied an equivalency that made me squirm. The power of the activity has lasted all these years. Its memory helps guide me as I push my own students to use compassion and critical thinking when working with issues of controversy.
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| Lisa Ellenberg, LS librarian, at CG since 1991. Bachelor's in education, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. Master's in education, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. |
| Isaac Enloe, kindergarten teacher, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in religious studies, Carleton College. Master's in early childhood and elementary education, Lewis and Clark Graduate School of Education & Counseling. What brought you to Catlin Gabel or why do you like working at Catlin Gabel?
As an intern in 2001, Catlin Gabel was where I first began to learn and practice the craft of teaching. Since then, I have taught at several progressive independent schools on the west coast and abroad, and visited many more. I can attest that Catlin Gabel is outstanding in its commitment to creating a nurturing learning community, supporting innovative teaching, and safeguarding a developmentally appropriate early childhood program. It feels wonderful to return "home" to Catlin to begin my tenth year as a teacher in the Beehive |
| Enrique Escalona Fuentes, LS Spanish teacher, at CG since 2006. Bachelor's in journalism, University of Seville. Master's in Spanish, Stony Brook University. In the early '90s, while studying journalism in college, I directed a television weather show that aired at 2 p.m. No one in Spain dares to take a siesta without watching the weather information first. That's how I learned that "the rain in Spain stays mainly in the plain" is a fallacy. Before directing the weather program I was an international reporter for the same TV channel. Between the war experience and the tedious weather reports (in southern Spain the weather is always sunny and warm with blue skies) I decided journalism wasn't my thing and that education is the pillar for a more civilized world. |
| Glenn Etter, temporary 8th grade history teacher, at CG since 2013. Bachelor's in English, University of North Carolina. Bachelor's in mathematics, University of North Carolina. Doctorate in cultural anthropology, University of California, Berkeley. |
| Sara Etter, LS student teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in arts & letters, Portland State University. |
| Chad Faber, Knight Family Scholars Program director, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in business administration, Georgetown University. Master's in education and history, Brown University. |
| Leslie Ferron-Jones, MS girls basketball coach, at CG since 2012. |
| Ann Fyfield, 6th grade humanities teacher. Bachelor's in international studies, Portland State University. When I was a college student, I went through a phase in which I thought foreign films were the only films worth seeing. As a French major, I felt the need to appear cosmopolitan, so I would don a beret, hop on my moped, and ride off to become cultured. I missed some great American films made at the time, but saw some movies I will never forget. "Do Desu Ka Den" by Akira Kurosawa was so intriguing that I eventually changed my major to Japanese and Asian Studies. The film that truly inspired me, though, was "1900" by Bernardo Bertolucci. It was the first time I had seen a multinational cast -- Burt Reynolds, Robert DeNiro, Gérard Depardieu, Donald Sutherland -- acting together in a lush, epic film about fascism, love, war, and class. They couldn't all really speak Italian, could they? The film was at least six hours long, but I loved every minute of it. It made me want to study more history, enroll in Italian language class, and most of all eat some very good pasta.
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| Brian Gant, MS health & PE teacher, at CG since 1984. Bachelor's in geography, Simon Fraser University, BC. |
| Aline Garcia-Rubio, US assistant division head, at CG since 2004. Doctorate in medicine, LaSalle University Mexico. My greatest Catlin Gabel experiences usually have to do with students thinking about their learning and growth. I had one such moment in class recently when a freshman made the connection between the concepts of energy transformations and entropy. He said, “Oh, I get it, this is why no machine can run forever!” I wanted to scream, Eureka! He came to that conclusion on his own. That kind of interaction makes every minute of my day at Catlin Gabel worthwhile. |
| Elizabeth Gibbs, US drama teacher, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in theater performance, Scripps College. Master's in advanced theatre practice, Central School of Speech and Drama. What brought you to Catlin Gabel or why do you like working at Catlin Gabel?
I first came to Catlin as a preschooler where I reportedly spent a huge amount of time playing dress-up. Dress-up and pretend has been my career path even after Catlin and I could not feel more lucky to be working in theater. An acting teacher in London once told me that when we are children we completely believe in the monster that lives in our closet and as we grow up we are able to intellectually and rationally understand that there is no real monster there. Actors, she said, are the people who can bring that monster to work every day.
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| Brendan Gill, 7th & 8th grade arts media teacher, at CG since 2010. Bachelor's in film production, Loyola Marymount University. What is one surprising thing about you? Movies have completely shaped the way I view our world. I see the front page of the newspaper as a marquee in lights. I hear lectures as pitches for the next blockbuster. I write down the jokes told at big family dinners (only the ones that made me fall under the table). My earliest memory is seeing the snake pit from Raiders of the Lost Ark on the big screen. Only good pictures are worth a thousand words. When strangers ask if I can take their picture, I try to get all those words in there. I learned best by playing, imitating, and experimenting, and that spirit is alive and well in the middle school. 7th and 8th graders are even more eager to make movies now than I was as a kid. What is it about this medium that's so alluring?
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| Madeleine Girardin-Schuback, US French teacher, at CG since 2005. Master's in education, College de Mirecort, France. Catlin Gabel teachers are equipped to engage students in analytical reading, speaking, listening, and writing-whatever the event, the topic, or the enduring social question. The Upper School is intellectually vibrant. It is a school in which each of the students feels himself a part of the whole. |
| Meredith Goddard, US history teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in history, Carleton College. Master's in secondary social studies education, Duke University. |
| Kate Grant, director of college counseling, at CG since 1997. Bachelor's in American studies, Smith College. Master's in psychology, Harvard University. What is your favorite movie, play, book, or pastime? Twice in the last ten years, I've had the pleasure of accompanying my husband (a professor at Lewis and Clark) to Siena, Italy, while he led a study abroad program. I learned so much from that experience about history, art history, my family, the world, and myself and the many people who befriended us. I encourage everyone to travel now: whether it is to Eastern Oregon or to Russia. Our apartment looked right on to the piazza that was the inspiration for Pioneer Square in Portland. One book that a student on the Siena program shared with us was Marguerite Henry's "Gaudenzia, Pride of the Palio." It provided a great introduction to the special festival in Siena, the Palio.
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| Stephen Grant, BS/ls counselor, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in psychology, University of Oregon. Master's in social work, Portland State University. |
| Peter Green, outdoor program director, at CG since 2005. Bachelor's in psychology, Williams College. Master's in ecology, University of California, Davis. Somewhere in the far distant past I found myself responsible for groups of teenagers as they explored the wilderness of the North Cascades. I was just 18 years old and had no idea what I was doing, except that I was supposed to return everyone home safely. Now, 30 years later I do know better what to do. The basic rule to return the kids home safely hasn’t changed. I’ve learned the second rule: don’t bring them home quite the same; make the experience worthwhile for each student. |
| Susie Greenebaum, alumni relations officer, at CG since 2012. |
| Dan Griffiths, upper school head, at CG since 2007. Master's in biological science, University of Oxford. Doctorate in zoology, University of Cambridge. My A level biology teacher, Paul Gainey, started me on my convoluted journey. His enthusiasm and passion for the natural world, combined with his unique teaching style and humour, inspired me and many others. An amazingly high number of students who took his class ended up studying biological sciences at university. He also instilled in us a sense of personal responsibility, allowing us to learn that ultimately the stimulus that drives you to success must come from within. |
| Brittany Guck, assistant varsity girls volleyball coach. |
| Keli Gump, 4th grade teacher, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in English, University of San Francisco. Master's in curriculum & instruction, City University. |
| Katie Gunderson, MS French teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in French, Portland State University. Master's in French, Portland State University. |
| John Hamilton, MS PE teacher, at CG since 1974. Bachelor's in physical education, Western Oregon University. When I first began teaching and coaching in 1974, veteran teacher and coach Dave Corkran had guided the girls cross-country program to the top of the state rankings. During the past 20 years I have had the great pleasure to work with the cross-country program. During that time the girls have worked hard to become the all-time number-one ranked class 3A program in the state. |
| Sia Haralampus, kindergarten teacher, at CG since 2010. Bachelor's in child development, Tufts University. Master's in education, Harvard University. Who was an influential teacher? At the start of my first year of junior high, one teacher had us write in journals to begin class. After a few days, he walked by as I was writing the day's entry and inquired about my adjustment to school. I recall being surprised - mostly at the fact that he had even read my past entries, but also because his interest in my experience was genuine. This simple inquiry quickly formed a connection and launched him into “real person” status. The memory of that moment, feeling a respectful and genuine connection with my teacher, is a vivid reminder of the importance of relationships in learning and teaching…and in life!
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| Dianne Harris, assistant girls tennis coach. |
| Brandon Haughton, head varsity boys basketball coach, at CG since 2010. |
| Jordan Heintz, 5th grade teacher, at CG since 2004. Bachelor's in psychology, Whittier College. Master's in education, Whittier College. It’s 40 degrees outside. I’m on a bicycle looking down a two-mile mud track complete with bogs and hurdles. The guy next to me is wearing a chicken suit. Someone rings a cowbell and a Portland cyclocross race launches to life. For 45 minutes our lungs will burn, we will force our cycles through thick mud, and then throw our bikes over our shoulders as we scramble up hills too steep to pedal. None of the cyclists will win anything but smiles from this ride. All of us will be in pain — laughing and helping each other. As a teacher you have to embrace joy. Delight is alive in children and in the best of teachers. That’s what makes me seek out things like cyclocross racing. It’s a race much like teaching: someone will be the fastest, but that is not the main thing. Savoring the experience is what counts. |
| Hayden Herder, assistant baseball coach, at CG since 2012. |
| Julie Higgins, LS administrative assistant. What was a great Catlin Gabel experience you've had lately?
We just had Harvest Festival which is my very favorite tradition at Catlin Gabel. All of the Lower School teachers and students, and many parents gather in the Fir Grove to celebrate the changing of the seasons. We have a bonfire and the kids sing, recite poetry, play instruments, and dance. After the bonfire we all gather to roll a giant oatcake marked with an X on one side, and an O on the other side. If the oatcake lands on O we'll have a mild winter, if it lands on X, we'll have a long cold winter. Of course we hope for a long cold winter with lots of snow days! Then we all have treats. Harvest Festival is the perfect example of the community coming together to celebrate and the community is why I work here.
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| Mariam Higgins, 4th grade teacher, at CG since 2006. Bachelor's in medical illustration, Ohio State University School of Medicine. Master's in teaching, Lewis & Clark College. Carefully striding down the rock-strewn path, I revel in the electricity in the air and gusting wind of an impending storm. Admonishing, finger-wagging Haitian women, old uncles, even children would run up to me, always with a smile, warning me again of the obvious and ominous dark clouds. I adore exploring, particularly in foreign environments. I am well prepared, but impulsive, open to new opportunities. This engaging pastime has taken me to the deepest rainforests of Malaysia, remote islands off Mexico, mountains of Haiti, swamps of Florida, rivers of China, ruins of Malta, and coasts of Ireland, not to mention many not-so-civilized pubs and cafés around the world. Nearly every weekend I discover a new trail somewhere in the Oregon woods. I hope the feeling I enjoy is similar to that of my students’: curious, alive, observant, and eager to experience more. |
| Shaun Higgins, jv boys soccer coach, at CG since 2011. |
| Leslie Hillman, 3rd grade teaching assistant. Bachelor's in physical education, Linfield College. |
| Beining Hu, US Chinese teacher, at CG since 2006. Bachelor's in Chinese, University of China. Master's in Chinese, University of Oregon. I enjoy my life here every day and appreciate that Catlin Gabel gives me such a great chance to grow in my profession. It is wonderful to work with the caring and thoughtful people here. As I teacher I also learn from my students and my colleagues. Teachers can be guided by their own interest or be led by the students’ interest. The students are encouraged to do their best and extend their own personal limits with a variety of possibilities. |
| Larry Hurst, 6th grade science teacher, at CG since 1998. Bachelor's in biology, California Poly State University. Master's in Latin American studies, University of Florida. |
| Yoko Iwasaki, US Japanese teacher. Bachelor's in agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture. Master's in English as a second language, Portland State University. |
| Hedy Jackson, MS health & PE teacher, at CG since 1996. |
| Shahr Jahanshir, MS volleyball coach 2, at CG since 2012. |
| Herb Jahncke, 3rd grade teacher, at CG since 2007. Bachelor's in biology, Rollins College. Master's in teaching, Lewis & Clark College. My animal physiology teacher in high school, Mr. Scarano, had an easy way of being in the classroom, a sense of humor, a gentle playfulness about him, and high expectations for his students. I learned from him to enjoy time and interactions with the students, without sacrificing academic expectations. Serious learning can be fun. |
| Renee Jenkinson, outdoor program teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in public health education, Portland State University. |
| Kyle Jolley, LS student teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in human development & family science, Oregon State University. |
| Christa Kaainoa, 7th grade English teacher, at CG since 2004. Bachelor's in journalism, University of Oregon. A bird flew into my classroom window within the first minutes of my first class today. Left a cloud of tiny feathers suspended in the air outside the window. Of course the class ran to the window to see the bird on the ground below and watched as it struggled for breath, bleeding from the mouth. It was terrible. I made everyone sit down and write a poem about the bird - from the bird's perspective, or from the student's, a eulogy or a prayer for recovery. We spent five minutes writing silently, and then looked outside again. The bird had stopped breathing. I sat there for a good minute or two, trying to figure out what to do. Was it okay to continue my class and listen to "Ice, Ice Baby" while searching for poetic devices within the lyrics? It just didn't feel right. So we took our bird poems and headed outside. The kids chose a burial spot in a cove of trees, and I dug a hole with a serving spoon and a Tupperware bowl, and we buried the robin. One kid assumed the role of minister and read a passage from a Bible he had found in the classroom, and other kids read their poems out loud. We had a moment of silence and covered the bird with dirt. Marked the grave with a stone and a branch. RIP, birdie.
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| Tiffany Kenaley, story craft teacher, at CG since 2011. |
| Ginia King, US English teacher. Bachelor's in comparative literature, Yale College. Master's in comparative literature, University of North Carolina. Doctorate in comparative literature and literary theory, University of Pennsylvania. |
| Colin Laing, LS student teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in sociology, University of Oregon. |
| Carter Latendresse, 6th grade language arts teacher, at CG since 2007. Bachelor's in English, University of Washington. Master's in English, University of Washington. When I'm not roller skating, bike riding, or gardening with my family, I'm often talking about books with friends. Some of my favorite writers include Mary Oliver, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, Rumi, Gloria Anzaldúa, Morris Berman, Marcus Borg, Walt Whitman, Lucille Clifton, Elaine Pagels, Anne Lamott, Wendell Berry, James Baldwin, Shakespeare, Molière, Joseph Heller, Zora Neale Hurston, Dostoevsky, Tolkien, Tolstoy, Marilynne Robinson, and J.D. Salinger. Just rattling off these heroes makes we want to get back to my quiet reading chair and a cup of tea.
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| Veronica Ledoux, US science teacher, at CG since 2008. Bachelor's in biochemistry, Mercyhurst College. Doctorate in neurobiology, Northwestern University. |
| Nance Leonhardt, US art teacher, at CG since 2007. Bachelor's in fine arts & radio, tv, film, Evergreen State College. Master's in teaching, Seattle University. People make all sorts of assumptions about arts educators - informed in part by limited experiences and caricatures from popular culture. We hear “F” words all the time. We're “flaky” and “flowery.” We're “fun.” While there are certainly positive attributes associated with these terms, I would like to put out some “F” words that capture a different dimension of arts educators. I'm fanatical when it comes to issues of pedagogy and school culture that lead to equity for students and further the cause of social justice in our world. I believe my role as an arts educator is to equip students with the tools they need to understand and counter the politics of representation in our culture. I'm fascinated by young people on the developmental continuum as they become adults. They make me want to laugh daily and rejoice that the future is in their hands. I'm fortunate that Catlin Gabel is the type of school that views educators progressively - not to be defined merely by the content that they deliver, but how they can facilitate a young person's academic, social and developmental growth.
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| David Long, 7th grade boys basketball coach, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in political science, University of Oregon. |
| Alicia Lopez, kindergarten teaching assistant, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in human development & family science, Oregon State University. |
| Jesse Lowes, MS science teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in biology, Colorado College. Master's in teaching, Lewis & Clark College. |
| Sandy Luu, athletic director, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in education and pe, Concordia University. Master's in athletic administration, Ohio University. What brought you to Catlin Gabel (if you are new to the school), or why do you like working at Catlin Gabel? I came to Catlin because I love the small school environment. Within this model, Catlin is mindful about seeking out the interests of the students. We have an amazing number of offerings with sports, clubs, and activities. The kids are so talented here and can do anything they set their minds to. |
| Vu Luu, technical varsity girls volleyball coach. |
| Ginny Malm, director of before & after school care, at CG since 1988. Bachelor's in English, Whitman College. |
| Jennifer Marcus, BS woodshop teacher, at CG since 2004. Bachelor's in art, Mills College. I transferred to Catlin Gabel in the middle of my sophomore year of high school. This was not my decision. At first I was baffled by the friendly teaching style and the respect my new teachers gave me. I especially loved Paul Dickinson's biology class. I was inspired by the way he guided us through labs and discussions with stimulating and exciting challenges. "Mr D" taught by asking questions, not by answering them. This is the key to how I teach today. |
| Jessica Marlitt, outdoor education sub, at CG since 2013. What brought you to Catlin Gabel or why do you like working at Catlin Gabel? I truly feel like each week in this community brings me great, memorable experiences. Most recently, we held class elections for the class of 2015. Not only was the campaigning positive and funny, but the speeches also rang with optimism, good will, and hope. No mudslinging in the students' democracy! I advise the US student government - CGSA - and am honored to explore with students how they can develop and practice good leadership.
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| Chris Mateer, US art teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in fine arts, Massachusetts College of Art. Master's in fine arts, Ohio University. |
| Brett Mathes, US English teacher, at CG since 2007. Bachelor's in English, Dartmouth College. Master's in English literature, Middlebury College. One of my favorite units to teach is the Winter's Tale project for English 10. This assignment prompts the sophomores to write and perform winter-themed stories for the first- and second-graders. The young audience inspires my students to present their most imaginative work, and frequently I get to see a new facet of each teller's personality. |
| John Mayer, 2nd grade teacher, at CG since 2006. Master's in education, Lewis & Clark College. My most influential teacher was a whimsical wonder woman named Nura Yingling, who taught my 11th and 12th grade English and writing classes at a small Quaker school in Virginia. After going to school in a series of large public schools, everything about my new school felt different on my first day. Nura's room was organized in a circle of large tables with no assigned seats, instead of the desks in rows that I was accustomed to. The other kids were filing in and hugging each other while catching up on their summers. I quickly felt like I did not belong. Nura strolled into class, finding the last chair open and settling down to chat with the kids to either side of her. I didn't understand. Wasn't she the teacher?! Why wasn't she at the front of the room? A minute or two later she quietly said, "For those who don't know me, I'm Nura, I love writing, and I can't wait to learn from you all about how to make my writing better." I remember thinking, "I'm John, I love writing too, and I've never been asked to teach a teacher anything." This sharing of the direction of the classroom was a new concept to me, and I was thrilled to be a part of it. I credit Nura for inspiring me to want to be a teacher in her image. |
| Emmarose McDermott, LS student teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in elementary education, Pacific University. |
| Peggy McDonnell, LS music teacher, at CG since 1978. Bachelor's in education, University of Maryland. Master's in curriculum & instruction, Portland State University. |
| Mary Medley, US administrative assistant. Master's in theater, University of Portland. |
| Robert Medley, US theater teacher & theater director, at CG since 1981. Bachelor's in education, University of Portland. |
| Andrew Merrill, US computer science teacher, at CG since 1999. Bachelor's in mathematics, Swarthmore College. |
| Casey Mills, US counselor, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in communication disorders, Colorado State University. Master's in education, Western Oregon State College. |
| Rieko Mine, US Japanese teacher, at CG since 1997. Bachelor's in English literature, Rissho University, Japan. |
| Leanne Moll, US English teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in music history & literature, Mills College. Master's in education, English language arts & literacy, Lewis & Clark College. Master's in musicology, Cornell University. |
| Paul Monheimer, 7th grade world cultures teacher, at CG since 1995. Bachelor's in German, Lewis & Clark College. Master's in education, Lewis & Clark College. Thomasine Wilson at Berkeley High School taught me the power of concise speech, clear writing, and logical thinking. She allowed me enough time to understand Descartes, and, more importantly, to be able to explain his teachings to my classmates. Then there was John Richards, longtime Portland Symphony tuba player, grandfather of a Catlin Gabel student, and professor at Lewis & Clark College. John taught education psychology not just by lecturing, but by actually encouraging his students to experiment and experience all things psychologically related to education. Finally, Eugene Williamson, Cedar Park Middle School, taught me the value of maintaining high standards for students, creating demanding curriculum, and taking students on field trips. Gene was never satisfied in the classroom: he lived the ideal that experiential education is the only real kind of school kids need.
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| Shizuka Morse, 4th grade teaching assistant, at CG since 2010. Bachelor's in linguistics & business administration, University of Oregon. When I first worked at Catlin Gabel in 2005 as a 4th grade teaching assistant, I had such an exciting year. Education at Catlin Gabel is very different from what I experienced as a child growing up in Japan. All the teachers and staff here work and interact very closely with each student. No matter who you are (teacher, staff, or student...), everyone respects each other. It is a learning place for everyone.
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| Cindy Murray, US learning specialist, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in education, University of Missouri. Master's in special education, Michigan State University. What brought you to Catlin Gabel or why do you like working at Catlin Gabel?
I feel very lucky in my life because I have had the opportunity to pursue two passions at the same time. One is to travel and the other is to guide and teach students who learn in unique ways. Because I am married to a non US citizen, whose focus was international business , we moved often. I was allowed to live and work in many wonderful cities both in the US and Europe. I benefited from the varying cultures, attitudes, trends and expertise of educators from many educational institutions. I find myself again rewarded by being part of the Catlin Gabel community that not only supports but celebrates the unique learning style in each and every one of us. |
| Courtney Nelson, lower school math specialist, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in landscape architecture, University of Massachusetts Amherst. Master's in elementary education, Lewis & Clark College. |
| Kenny Nguyen, US math teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in mathematics, University of Chicago. Master's in learning technologies, University of Michigan. Doctorate in mathematics education, North Carolina State University. |
| Kristin Ogard, MS counselor, at CG since 2001. Bachelor's in physical education, Pacific Lutheran University. Master's in counseling psychology, Lewis & Clark College. When I was a student growing up here in Portland my high school my drama teacher, Mr. Lesch, encouraged me to audition for a commercial being filmed here in town. It was for the Dairy Farmers of Oregon. If I were selected for the part I would be promoting milk consumption and the dairy industry as we knew it in 1982. As it turns out, I was selected for the lead role and I became the "face of milk" for a brief period. My career path did not lead to further auditions or any other roles in television, and I am quite happy and content in my role as a middle school counselor: no cameras, no lights, but lots of drama!
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| Chenoa Ohlson, preschool extended day & asc coordinator, at CG since 2006. Bachelor's in anthropology, University of Nevada. As I make my way through life, my 7th grade English teacher, Mr. Palucci, is never far from my thoughts. At an age as precarious as thirteen, I felt seen and heard in a way I hadn't experienced in other classes. He introduced us to great literature, but it was our voices and ideas he encouraged most. When I stepped through his classroom door I entered a safe, warm harbor from the confusion of junior high. He put his whole heart into his work-and that is the kind of teacher I aspire to be every day. |
| Peter Oliver, jv boys basketball coach. |
| Barbara Ostos, middle school head, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in government, Harvard University. Master's in nonprofit leadership & management, University of San Diego. Doctorate in educational leadership, University of California, San Diego. Middle schoolers are amazing people. They change daily, and the impact their school environment has on them should not be underestimated. It's a privilege to work with them and their families. Independent schools are not ivory towers. Our work is to provide a microcosm of the real world. We must provide a diverse, student-centered education that prepares our students for their futures through teaching and practicing critical and flexible thinking, collaboration, and communication skills in all we do. |
| Lark Palma, head of school, at CG since 1995. Bachelor's in English, George Mason University. Doctorate in English literature, University of South Carolina. |
| Rhonda Patten, BS music teacher, at CG since 2006. Bachelor's in music, University of Wisconsin-Madison. I love the writing of Margaret Mahy, a children's author from New Zealand. Her ability to play with words and language, sense of place, and her use of magic in the everyday world transport the reader (or me) to a place where the story so much more than the words and images. Reading her work is like listening to a well-crafted concert. The sound, emotion, and story wash over me and leave me feeling transformed. |
| Sue Phillips, upper school librarian, at CG since 2004. Bachelor's in English literature, University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Master's in English literature, Portland State University. Master's in library science, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Why do you like working at Catlin Gabel? One of the most satisfying elements of working at Catlin Gabel comes from providing opportunities for the older students to take on leadership roles that define the culture of this special place. I recently returned from the freshman class trip during which thirteen seniors taught skills, led small groups, discussed ethics, and set the tone for the 9th graders' four years in the Upper School. It is a joy to help these students become such effective leaders and role models. |
| Joan Piper, US math teacher, at CG since 1999. Bachelor's in mathematics, Bates College. Master's in mathematics and curriculum and instruction, University of Wisconsin-Madison. I have really enjoyed working on the senior project committee for the past several years. I love to see what students choose to pursue when given pretty unlimited options at the end of their senior year. Everything from flying airplanes to baking bread, to participating in political campaigns to working in a cancer research lab, has sparked someone’s interest lately. My role as a facilitator of these opportunities has been extremely rewarding and I am looking forward to lots more creative projects this spring. |
| Carol Ponganis, 6th grade math teacher, at CG since 1988. Bachelor's in biology, University of California, Santa Cruz. Master's in education, Portland State University. We recently held a field test for our upcoming trip to Japan. All the kids brought their packed luggage so we could practice taking public transportation, buying train tickets, eating out as a group, and hauling our luggage around. We even had simulated Japan Rail Passes that the students had to present on command. It turned out to be a great learning experience for all because Murphy's Law was in full swing that day. Everything that could go wrong did. The school building alarm went off as we tried to leave for the train, which made us 15 minutes late for the train. When we got to the train station, a ticket machine was broken, so 20 people had to buy tickets from one machine. Needless to say, we missed the train. But lunch went off without a hitch, so we returned to school patting ourselves on the back for a job well done. Then a student reported that he had left his backpack with all his money and camera on the bus! It was great practice for the resilience and resourcefulness we were going to need on our trip abroad!
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| Erin Porter, temporary learning specialist, at CG since 2013. Bachelor's in rhetoric & communication studies, College of Arts &Sciences. Master's in teaching k-8, University of Virginia. Master's in international & intercultural communication, Royal Roads University, Victoria, B.C.. |
| Mark Pritchard, MS music teacher, at CG since 1998. Bachelor's in music, New South Wales Conservatory of Music. Who was an influential teacher? Most high schools in Sydney are grades 7-12. My most influential teacher was my music teacher. He got me into playing the flute and piano and I liked so much what I was doing that I had decided by the 8th grade that I was going to be a music teacher in the future. David got the job as lecturer in music education at the Sydney Conservatorium where I studied with him an additional four years once I was done with high school. I always make a point of contacting David any time I go to Australia to visit. He's a good friend and a mentor throughout my career.
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| Dale Rawls, MS art teacher, at CG since 1989. Bachelor's in art, Portland State University. Master's in education, Lewis & Clark College. Art professor Ray Grimm was an important role model for me. Not only did I meet the love of my life and wife of 34 years in his college class, but I was his studio apprentice during several summers in college. He modeled problem solving as an effective way to teach and continued to have shows and make art during the 35 years that he was a college professor. He continues to be a friend and mentor to this day.
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| Lauren Reggero-Toledano, US Spanish teacher. Bachelor's in education, University of Miami. Master's in Spanish, University of Salamanca, Spain. My maternal grandfather was Greek and I was raised in a very proud Greek-American family. I began the formal study of Modern Greek during the spring of 2007 when I spent the semester in Spain. My husband and I had classes twice a week with a Greek exchange student. I had to start from zero while my husband could pull from his memory of the Ancient Greek class he took in college. Our classes with Fotini prepared us well for our first trip to Greece that spring. After returning to Portland, we found a wonderful teacher and we take independent Greek with Erna once a week. Learning Greek has made me appreciate nuances of the culture in which I was raised. It has made me a more empathetic Spanish teacher. I have also recently joined the programming committee for the Hellenic-American Cultural Center of Oregon and Southwest Washington.
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| David Reich, challenge course manager. |
| Vicki Roscoe, lower school head, at CG since 2002. Bachelor's in early childhood, Central Washington University. Master's in teacher education, Bank Street College of Education. What keeps me here? The students' genuine love of learning keeps me here. I love working with truly outstanding teachers who know how to engage students deeply in learning. I have seen some of the strongest parenting skills in my career right here. The strong sense of community continues to amaze me since our families are spread all over the greater Portland area. There is magic here every day and it warms my heart.
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| Colin Rupp, 2nd grade teaching assistant, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in music education, University of Portland. |
| Shannon Rush, US math teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in mathematics, Seattle Pacific University. |
| Sue Sacks, LS learning specialist, at CG since 1991. Bachelor's in special education, NW Nazarene. Master's in learning disabilities, Northwestern University. As a volunteer at a shelter for women and children I was asked to teach computer skills. I met Susan, a recovering meth addict trying to stay clean and restart her life. She had limited schooling and no confidence in her abilities. We sat together at the computer and she told me that she knew nothing. Susan had become frustrated and unsuccessful with an earlier typing assignment. Together we found an online typing program that turned out to be perfect for her. She bravely began practicing. The look on her face when she saw her first score of 10 letters a minute with 89 percent accuracy was amazing. Priceless, even. That is why I teach. Whether working with a 4th grader learning to solve algebraic equations, a struggling reader who figures out a challenging word by herself, a parent or teacher who gains understanding about why a child learns the way he does, or a middle aged woman learning to type four letters on the computer, being a part of those “aha” moments is why I am here. |
| Cory Sandvold, goalkeeper coach. |
| Bob Sauer, US science teacher, at CG since 2001. Bachelor's in physics, Whitman College. The strong sense of community, academic enthusiasm, and integrity of the students at Catlin Gabel, and the care, compassion, and competence of the faculty and staff alone would make this a marvelous place to work. But on top of all that there are so many fascinating opportunities outside the classroom, in which I immerse myself (and my kids) as much as possible. I’ve enjoyed participating in overnight class trips; hiking, skiing, canoeing, rafting, climbing, and backpacking with the outdoor program; traveled with students to Turkey and Peru; and restored the environment in the Mt. Hood National Forest for one week each summer with the Elana Gold ’93 Memorial Environmental Restoration Project. It has been a fun adventure learning to drive a school bus, which allows me to drive for my own geology, astronomy, and physics class field trips. I greatly appreciate that my own kids are able to attend Catlin Gabel. They are currently in the Lower School, having a great educational and social experience, in which I am more fully able to participate, as I’m in the same location. It will be especially thrilling when they come to the Upper School! |
| Allen Schauffler, preschool teacher, at CG since 1968. Bachelor's in music, Lake Erie College. Master's in education, Lesley University. I had a teacher in college named Clive who was the head of the technical theater department. As he both pushed and led me through the intricacies of setting lighting and running the board he also gave me space to be an observer. The view from the catwalk over a stage is a great place to watch plays in rehearsal. I take my role as observer in the classroom seriously and with great humility. What I learn from keen observation is where to shine and focus the lights. |
| Peggy Schauffler, LS art teacher, at CG since 1994. Bachelor's in art education, University of Oregon. Master's in education, Portland State University. I first came to Catlin Gabel riding on the shoulders of my father, choir and woodshop teacher Dave Schauffler. I was three — a little transplanted fish from an Illinois farm. From that squirmy young age until I was 18 years old I received the most amazing education a little Illinois fish could ever ask for. The greatest teachers of my life (my father at the top of the list) nourished and challenged me until I was ready to swim. My destinations were Europe, the East Coast, West Coast, and many places in between, until I was drawn back to Portland, my home. With my own children in arms, I looked for the best education I could find for them. I looked for the most challenging and nourishing teaching environment I could find for myself. I was very fortunate to find Catlin Gabel again. Now, young students look into my eyes every day, asking for nourishment and challenges. I teach them, as I was taught, so many years ago. |
| Alfred Schultz, interim Spanish teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in architecture, Instituto Tecnologico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey. Master's in humanities, Centro Panamericano de Humanidades. |
| RJ Schuppert, MS boys white team basketball coach, at CG since 2012. |
| Lauren Shareshian, US math teacher, at CG since 2010. Bachelor's in mathematics, New York University. Master's in mathematics, Duke University. In seven years, I lived in seven different states. I am originally from New Jersey, but due to my undergraduate and graduate studies and research opportunities, I have spent time at Duke, NYU, Mount Holyoke, UC Santa Barbara, and Reed College. In 2008 I taught in New Mexico, and now I am fortunate to teach at Catlin Gabel. I love Portland and I'm tired of moving, so I think it is finally time to unpack my bags.
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| Peter Shulman, US history teacher, at CG since 2003. Bachelor's in history, Haverford College. Master's in history, University of Michigan. It’s 3:15 p.m. and I’ve just completed a long day of teaching, but I feel exhilarated and grateful. My 7th period U.S. history students continue to amaze me with their intellectual curiosity and depth of engagement with the texts. The questions are sophisticated and interesting; there’s no showboating, but a pure desire for learning in effect. A student stays after class, curious about the veracity of charges leveled at President Lincoln over the abuse of civil liberties. Every day, I walk out with the same thought: I am incredibly lucky to work at Catlin Gabel. |
| Dawn Sieracki, 2nd grade teacher, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in elementary education, Bradley University. Master's in educational leadership, Maryville University. |
| Lynn Silbernagel, MS librarian, at CG since 1995. Bachelor's in English, University of Wisconsin-Madison. Master's in library science, University of Wisconsin-Madison. Master's in education: curriculum & instruction, Portland State University.
From the time I was seven years old, I knew I wanted to be a librarian. I grew up in Madison, Wisconsin, and stayed there through graduate school and the start of my career. I was happy as a children's and young adult librarian at a public library. I had not considered deviating from my path until I got a call and several e-mails from Catlin Gabel's Upper School librarian telling me about a job opening in the Middle School. I did not think I was interested in working in a school, where my responsibilities would expand into classrooms and curriculum, but I was persuaded to visit Portland. After doing extensive research about the school and over the course of a daylong interview on campus I discovered that Catlin Gabel was, indeed, exceptional. I knew this was a place where I could be a learner as well as a teacher and librarian.
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| Chris Skrapits, 8th grade science teacher, at CG since 1998. Bachelor's in biology, State University of New York at Geneseo. Master's in education, Lewis & Clark College. |
| Kathy Sloan, US math teacher, at CG since 1996. Bachelor's in mathematics, Middlebury College. I am a risk taker. I look for opportunities to step outside my comfort zone both physically and mentally. This can take the form of joining the outdoor education program for a midnight climb up Mt. Hood in freezing rain, to joining a high school Winterim, to learning how to swing dance at a public dance in downtown Portland. In my classroom I am not afraid to stray from the perfect lesson plan to entertain a thoughtful question that takes us off topic. Sometimes the thoughtful question comes from me, and I interrupt the class flow to put it out there for the students to ponder. I find myself often saying, " I wonder what would happen if...." I always find things interesting when I step outside the box, physically and intellectually. |
| Kathryn Slothower, US science teacher, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in biochemistry, Lewis & Clark College. |
| Ron Sobel, US Spanish teacher, at CG since 1977. Bachelor's in political science, San Jose State University. Master's in Spanish, Middlebury College. Homework Club is a wonderful service program where our students mentor younger Latino students after school in their apartment complex. Watching our students interact, as well as participating myself as a tutor, reinforces in me the importance of this special type of community outreach. |
| Tony Stocks, US English teacher, at CG since 1999. Bachelor's in English, Oberlin College. Master's in English, Cornell University. |
| Guimin Tang, LS Chinese teacher, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in English language and literature, Guangdong University. Master's in applied linquistics, Guangdong University. Master's in education, Portland State University. |
| Mimi Tang, 1st grade teacher, at CG since 2005. Bachelor's in English, University of Washington. Master's in education, University of Washington. Although my memory of what my 3rd grade teacher looked like or sounded like has faded, I will never forget how Mrs. Cleveland made me feel. When she looked at me, she saw me. She truly saw me. As a shy, introverted, voiceless child, I was never invisible in Mrs. Cleveland’s universe. She succeeded in drawing me out of my typical way of being, challenging me and including me in the culture of the classroom seamlessly and respectfully. Many of her former students became teachers. Her spirit of kindness and ability to include all children lives on in us. I feel so fortunate to have learned from a master teacher and memorable human being. |
| Nichole Tassoni, US English teacher, at CG since 2007. Bachelor's in English, Wesleyan University. Master's in English education, Columbia University Teachers College. My favorite book of all time is "Bread and Jam for Frances," by Russell Hoban. What could be better than a story whose moral is "I think eating is nice"? Yes, it's still my favorite book. And "King Lear." |
| Dan Tompkins, jv ii boys basketball (volunteer coach), at CG since 2010. |
| Tom Tucker, MS woodshop teacher. Bachelor's in design, Marlboro College. pending |
| Lauren Tuey, LS student teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in education & learning, Pacific University. |
| Lisa Unsworth, assistant director of admission, at CG since 2010. Bachelor's in physical education, University of Calgary. Bachelor's in education, Gonzaga University. Master's in education, Drury Univesity. |
| Roberto Villa, US Spanish teacher, at CG since 1984. Bachelor's in French, Pacific University. Master's in French, Portland State University. Since 2001 we have been fortunate to send three student groups to Cuba despite many roadblocks and government restrictions. In our role as ambassadors we toured the island, visiting schools, hospitals, medical facilities, and churches, where we made humanitarian donations on behalf of our country. In March 2008, given the political climate of the island and the transition of power, our 25 students witnessed history in the making. Every day the government announced a new law or lifted a restriction (such as the ability to buy a DVD or stay at a tourist hotel). These actions seemed to give the Cubans a sense of hope and economic optimism. During our short stay in Cuba we met hundreds of people from Pinar del Río to Trinidad. In every case, we were treated graciously and with respect, despite the differences between our two governments. I am proud of my students, who represented our school and country with dignity and respect. |
| Charles Walsh, US music teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in music, Kenyon College. |
| Holly Walsh, 8th grade English teacher. Bachelor's in psychology, University of Vermont. Master's in education, St. Michael's College. |
| Joe Walsh, controller. |
| Patrick Walsh, US history teacher, at CG since 2006. Bachelor's in art, University of California, Berkeley. Master's in history, California State University, Chico. Doctorate in history, University of Texas. When I was a kid, there was a low-rent movie house in the warehouse district of Berkeley that showed Marx Brothers movies each winter right around my birthday. I don't know how many times I watched "Duck Soup" or "Horse Feathers" with a bunch of friends in lieu of a "regular" birthday party. Thirty-some-odd years later, I still watch them regularly. Harpo and Chico and especially Groucho are like favorite uncles, old friends who help me with what it means to be a grown-up. |
| Yen-Ling Wang, MS Spanish teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in Spanish, University of California, Riverside. Bachelor's in biology, University of California, Riverside. Master's in Spanish literature, Stanford University. Master's in education, Stanford University. |
| Robyn Washburn, US registrar, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in English literature/communication studies, University of Montana. |
| Spencer White, MS Spanish teacher, at CG since 1996. Bachelor's in hispanic studies, Lewis & Clark College. My own middle school experience was horrendous. I felt as if no adult could tolerate my presence. Was I like the students I teach now? I have so much fun spending my days with young adults and their boundless energy. They are by far the most exciting people around. Running a close second to my students are my fabulous colleagues. This place is magical.
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| Hannah Whitehead, beginning school head, at CG since 1982. Bachelor's in English literature, Reed College. The teacher who influenced me most was my father. He was a professor who had come to education late in life, and so gave it special value. He was always on his students' side. With probing questions, he helped them do their best work, threw them lifelines when they froze during their orals, and mentored them after they left his care. He had a talent for making those around him look good. He was good at explaining things, had a wonderful sense of humor, and was sharp as a tack. His and my mother's greatest gift to me was to send me on a six-month trip home from Australia through Asia, the Suez Canal, and Europe to finish high school in the U.S. That trip was an amazing education in itself. |
| Dave Whitson, US history teacher, at CG since 2011. Bachelor's in history and comparative literature, University of Washington. Master's in curriculum and instruction, University of Washington. What was a great Catlin Gabel experience you've had lately? On the freshman trip, a group of seniors served as advisors for the incoming 9th graders, volunteering to give up two days to accompany us and work long hours. For me, it was my first introduction to many of the soon-to-be-graduates. Their relentless good cheer was impressive enough, but the thoughtfulness that they displayed towards the freshmen was remarkable. At all times, they worked to learn names, build connections, and create one of the most positive and welcoming environments I've ever been in. On the last morning, they gathered before the freshmen and sang a song they had prepared the night before, reinforcing everything they had done over the retreat and reiterating that the relationships they had established would remain as strong when we returned to campus on Monday. The singing might not have been pitch perfect, but every other aspect of their performance was.
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| Wendy Wilkinson, US French teacher, at CG since 2012. Bachelor's in history, University of Wisconsin-Madison. Doctorate in law, Lewis & Clark Northwestern School of Law. |
| Sheila Williams, LS PE teacher, at CG since 1990. |
| Tracy Williams, human resources assistant, at CG since 2012. |
| Rebecca Wirth, preschool teacher, at CG since 2008. Bachelor's in English literature, Reed College. Master's in early childhood, Bank Street College of Education. Happily I am able to enjoy one of my favorite Catlin Gabel experiences, Friday Sing at the Beehive, almost every week. This is a time for preschool Honeybees, kindergarten Eagles, their families, and teachers to be together and sing together. The feeling of joy in the room is palpable, and the Fir Grove through the window provides a scenic backdrop. Friday Sing lovingly closes one week while readying me for the week to come. |
| Becky Wynne, US science teacher, at CG since 1998. Bachelor's in architecture, Portland State University. Bachelor's in chemistry, Swarthmore College. Master's in science and math education, Cornell University. I attended kindergarten in Moscow, USSR, during the Cold War. My parents are mathematics professors, and we would go on sabbatical to visit and work with mathematicians in other countries. When I was 5, we spent six months in Moscow. I remember going to kindergarten, learning Russian, learning to cross country ski and play chess. I remember the cold of the winter, but also how warm and welcoming the Russian people were. My experiences living in foreign countries when I was a child (we also lived in Warsaw and the West Bank of Israel) made me a global citizen at an early age. I believe in the basic goodness and humanity of people in this world, no matter where they are from. |
| Jim Wysocki, US math teacher, at CG since 2010. Bachelor's in mathematics, Niagara University. I had no intention of leaving my previous school, but Pam McComas, former Catlin Gabel Beginning School head, who now works at my old school, told me that Catlin Gabel had an opening and that I might be a good fit. After talking to several people I realized that even though I had not been looking for a new job, Catlin Gabel seemed to be an interesting place and deserved a closer look. So, I flew to Portland - for the first time in my life - and fell in love with both the area and the school.
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| Mary Yacob, admission & financial aid coordinator, at CG since 2010. What brought you to Catlin Gabel or why do you like working at Catlin Gabel?
I really like working at Catlin Gabel because of the fantastic community. There is a wonderful sense of family, and I feel appreciated and supported. |
| Dale Yocum, US robotics program director, at CG since 2007. Bachelor's in computer science, University of California, Santa Barbara. When I was in high school, my electronics teacher was a pack rat. He loved to go to government surplus sales and take back to our lab everything nobody else wanted. Why? It was free! We had stacks and stacks of random
electronic gizmos to fix, take apart, cannibalize, and puzzle over. He had every electronic component under the sun salvaged from this stuff. When I sold my company after 25 years in software and electronics management, I
vowed to recreate that sense of exploration and fun here at Catlin Gabel. That's why you won't find rows and rows of neatly stacked identical kits in our robotics labs. A little chaos is good for the soul. |
| George Zaninovich, place director, at CG since 2008. Bachelor's in environmental studies, University of Pennsylvania. Bachelor's in political science, University of Pennsylvania. Master's in urban and regional planning, Portland State University. |
| John Zingale, middle school student teacher. Bachelor's in history, Northern Illinois University. |