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Instructor Bios - Kids College

SFCC President Dr. Marsha Drennon said Kids College is based on the philosophy that fun and learning go hand-in-hand. “We believe we have created an exceptional learning environment that provides students with many opportunities to learn,” said Drennon. “Our program will feature a wide range of unique activities designed to provide students with extraordinary experiences making topics come alive. Our teachers, from area school districts, will take fresh approaches that challenge children and send them back to school with new perspectives and an excitement for learning.”

Ditzfeld, Kevin Education: Education Specialist in School Administration Experience: 11 total years of teaching; 2 summers teaching Kids College robotics and currently serves as a mentor for Team Scream, Smith-Cotton's Robotics team Why I teach Kids College: I teach Kids College because I love the idea of our community's kids learning beyond the scope of what it taught in the traditional classroom. Specifically, I am proud to be a part of educating tomorrow's professionals in the field of science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

Donnell-Brown, Mary Education: Experience: Taught dance for over 25 years and over 20 years at State Fair Community College Why I teach Kids College: I love to teach dance.		Photo Pending

Dump, Patty Education: I earned a BS ed. in speech communication, theater, and English and a Master’s degree from the University of Central Missouri State University. Experience: I was a high school teacher of English, drama, and art for almost thirty years. I have also presented summer workshops for middle grade students, including a workshop on writing mysteries for the Henry County Library. Why I teach Kids College: I truly enjoy working with students. I love their energy and creativity. My philosophy is that teachers need to teach the whole child so that the child can become successful. I have a good sense of humor and try to make my workshops fun and enjoyable. I am also the Anime Club sponsor for SFCC. We meet to discuss Anime characters, films, and television shows. I have also been a professional writer for over fifteen years. I can explain the writing process by sharing personal lessons that I have learned, some of them the hard way.

Essley, Katie Education: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Central Methodist University Experience: Employed at a daycare center/preschool with children ranging from ages 2-5 Why I teach Kids College: I teach Kids College because I enjoy helping children learn in fun, creative ways through hands-on activities.

Himes, Jessica Education: 2012 graduate of Central Methodist University with a degree in Early Childhood Education Experience: 2 years teaching Kindergarten Why I teach Kids College: I love teaching, playing, and learning with children!		Photo Pending

Hughes, Heather Education: Bachelor of Science in English Education Experience: Substitute teacher with Sedalia 200 and Pettis Co. R-XII school districts; also a private writing tutor and teach hoop dance classes at community events Why I teach Kids College: Kids College embraces my favorite ways to learn: play, exploration, and self-expression.

Lockard, Kaela Education: Bachelor’s degree in Art Education from Northwest Missouri State University and currently finishing Master’s degree in Art Education from Boston University Experience: 5th year teaching art education in the public school systems; also teach private lessons as well as adult art classes Why I teach Kids College: I love art and love to share my passion with other students of all ages.

Means, Lensie Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Middle Grades Education, Minor in Mathematics grades 5-9; also certified in Communication Arts grades 5-9 and Social Studies grades 5-9 Experience: 3 years of teaching middle grades math, also tutored through the school and privately Why I teach Kids College: I teach Kids College because I enjoy teaching. I consider myself a life-long learner and appreciate the curiosity and inquisitive nature of children.

Miller, Sarah Education: Missouri certified in Elementary Education (grades 1-8) Experience: 9 years teaching 2^nd grade, 1 year teaching 3^rd grade, 4 years teaching summer school Why I teach Kids College:

Riggs, Brenda Education: Bachelor of Elementary Education (grades 1-6) and Early Childhood degree in the State of Missouri, Elementary Education degree with a Reading Endorsement (K-8) through the State of Iowa Experience: I assisted with small group instruction during 14 years as a Special Services Paraprofessional. I am completing my second year teaching at Malta Bend R-V School in the third grade classroom. Last year I taught second grade. I also am the Scholar Bowl coach for the Junior High and High School. Why I teach Kids College: I enjoy teaching reading and feel a course called “Dr. Seuss on the Loose” would be a great way for students to increase their knowledge in the five components of reading: phonics, phonemic awareness, comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary.

Stephens, Melissa Education: Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education Experience: Currently the director and lead instructor at the First United Methodist Church Preschool in Warsaw, MO (2 years), taught 1st grade for 3 years before having her three children, created and taught art and science curriculum at 2 preschool summer camps Why I teach Kids College: I love watching kids learn in a hands-on environment and teaching them to see learning can be fun!

Wendt, Ashley Education: Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education Experience: Kindergarten teacher for 8 years, practicing semi-professional photography for 11 years Why I teach Kids College: Photography is my second greatest passion, surpassed only by my passion for the education of children. Combing the two will make for a fantastic, fun course this summer!