Meet Our Staff

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School Staff
Our exceptional faculty, committed to creating a caring atmosphere, believes in Christian values, academic excellence and high expectations. The majority of our teachers have attained graduate degrees in education and are are certified by the State of Michigan. The Diocese of Lansing certifies religion teachers. We encourage and support our faculty to maintain their own academic excellence by continuing their education, assuring they obtain the most advanced knowledge in teaching disciplines. We are proud to say several of our staff are graduates of St. Francis School! This is indicated below by an asterisk (*) before the staff member’s name.

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Assistant Principal
*Mrs. Kathryn Dhitirojana: kdhitirojana@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2286
Education: BS Education, MA Educational Leadership
One of the greatest blessings of my life was to join the supportive, caring community at St. Francis as a teacher in 2012. I attended this school from 1st-8th grade and am grateful each day that I have the privilege of providing my students with the same academic and spiritual opportunities that I experienced as a student here. As an administrator I love to see our students grow in kindness, responsibility, and maturity throughout their time at SFA.

Administrative Assistant
Mrs. Kelly Van Oirschot:  kvanoirschot@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2203
I have worked in a business office setting for over 20 years. Time has flown by as I have been at St. Francis for over 13 years now!  I really enjoy my position here and look forward to helping our families and students and anyone with questions about our School. It is a blessing to be a part of St. Francis.

Office Secretary
Mrs. LouAnn Morrill: lmorrill@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2200
Education: BA in Criminal Justice
I became a part of the St Francis School community when my daughter started kindergarten. She is now in 6th grade. I have enjoyed getting to know the kids as a lunch volunteer, PTG member, subbing in the school office and this year, transitioning to a part time secretary. This tightknit community has allowed me to develop many close friendships that I know will last long after my daughter graduates from SFA.

Office Secretary
Mrs. Aarika Stovcsik: astovcsik@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2200
Education: BS in Nursing
Transitioning from my nursing career to a Mom of four and now being able to be a part of their school staff has been a wonderful blessing. Catholic education has always been an important part of my life and I am excited to be now sharing it with my children. We are blessed to be a part of this amazing community and I want to share my love for it by being a welcoming face to all who enter.

School Bookkeeper
Mrs. Jackie Pearson:  jpearson@stfrancisa2.org and 734-821-2113
Education: BBA – Accounting
I made my profession of faith and married my husband Matthew here at St. Francis. We have been parishioners at St. Francis since 2016. As the school bookkeeper, I am able to work and help families in a Faith based environment. I also work with Development on different events throughout the year.

Extended School Program & Preschool Director
Mrs. Christina Busse:  cbusse@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2290
Education: BS Education
The greatest part of working at St. Francis of Assisi School is the relationships. Building mutually respectful relationships with children, partnerships with parents and friendships with co-workers make SFA the place I want to be every day. Formerly I was a director and preschool teacher at the Pfizer Family Center. I have children of my own and understand the challenges facing families today.

School Nurse
Mr. Robert Riehl: rriehl@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2207
Education:

Kindergarten – KA
Ms. Emily Sanders:  esanders@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2210
Education: BS Elementary Education and ESL Education
I am beyond grateful to be teaching kindergarten at St. Francis of Assisi among this amazing staff! As a former Catholic school graduate out of Kansas City, I am excited to be at a school that feels like home. Each day is a great day for learning and I look forward to watching the kindergarten scholars grow throughout the year.

KA Aide
Mrs. Kriste Nolan: knolan@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2214
Education:

Kindergarten – KB
Mrs. Tricia Strassburg:  pstrassburg@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2213
Education: B.S. Concentration in Elementary Education
I have the honor to continue teaching at St. Francis School as I have moved from Preschool into Kindergarten. St. Francis School has been a part of my life for 17 years as my children attended school here and then I began to teach Preschool. I love working with my class and giving them the tools and knowledge they need to become confident and caring students. It is a pleasure to work with this community of teachers, administrators, parents and children. Together, we help make our school a wonderful place for children to grow in knowledge and faith.

KB Aide
Mrs. Viviana Iturbe: viturbe@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2215
Education: BA Education and BA in Business Administration
I began my journey at SFA when my oldest son started kindergarten. I started volunteering as a lunch parent and then became a substitute teacher. I feel blessed to be part of the staff team as a kinder aid. I love the nurturing environment, and the great supportive community St Francis offers to students, staff and parents. I look forward to many more years at this wonderful school.

Grade 1A
Mrs. Rachel Johnson:  rjohnson@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2211
Education: BA Elementary Education: Early Childhood & Science, MA: Educational Media and Technology
I started teaching at St. Francis in 2010. I am so grateful to work at such a wonderful school. First grade is an exciting time, and I look forward to helping and watching my students learn and grow everyday.

Grade 1B
Ms. Sara Fifelski:  sfifelski@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2212
Education: BA in Theology: Franciscan University of Steubenville, MS in Elementary Education
I am grateful to be teaching in First Grade at St. Francis.  I have moved to Michigan from Cape Cod, Massachusetts where I taught Pre-School and Kindergarten for thirteen years.  I graduated from FUS with a BA degree in Theology and completed several graduate courses in Education.  Each day is a new opportunity to learn, love and enjoy the young lives I am entrusted with as they grow and progress on their own educational journey!

Grade 2A
Mrs. Jennifer Cieciek: jcieciek@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2221
Education: BS in Elementary Education, Specialist Endorsement in Early Childhood, Minors in Fine Arts and Social Sciences
God has blessed me beyond measure with a teaching position at St. Francis. I learn something new every day from the amazing children, families and staff here. I am lucky to be able to be a part of the journey our 2nd grade students will take as they learn and grow, not only in academics, but also in their faith as they make the sacraments of Reconciliation and First Communion. 

Grade 2B
Mrs. Michelle Corrunker:  mcorrunker@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2222
Education: BS Elementary Education, Reading Specialist Endorsement
I am truly blessed to have found my place here at St. Francis with this amazing staff.  It is a wonderful community where the kiddos and I can grow in faith together.  Second grade is very special as we prepare for our first Reconciliation and Holy First Communion. I am glad to be a part of this special time in their lives. 

Grade 3A
Ms. Maria Jakimcius: mjakimcius@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2231
Education: BS in Elementary Education
I could not have been more excited when I was asked to be a part of the St. Francis team. Working with such a supportive and friendly staff is a true joy and a blessing. I love the sense of community that is felt and demonstrated throughout the school, both among staff and among students. My heart is in 3rd grade, and I’m fortunate to be doing what I love in a such a special place. 

Grade 3B
*Ms. Carlye Malcolm:  cmalcolm@stfrancisaa.org  or 734-821-2232
Education: BA Education, Masters in Reading
I was elated when I first found out I was hired into the 3rd grade position because St. Francis is where I spent my childhood and I knew I would be walking back into a supportive, tight-knit community. Seasoned staff members reach out to help acclimate teachers who are new to the school and school families and faculty come together to create a caring, loving community that encourages the students in their learning. I have taught here for over 10 years now and I am so grateful to be in a position where I can pass on the spark of academic curiosity and spiritual growth that teachers at St. Francis first ignited in me.

Grade 4A
*Mrs. Matilyn Schneier: mschneier@stfrancisaa.org or 734-821-2241
Education: BA: University of Notre Dame, MEd: University of Notre Dame
As a proud Mustang Alum, I feel so blessed to return to teach at such a special place as St. Francis! I am grateful for the opportunity to teach in a Catholic School and help students grow in their primary and most important identity- beloved children of God our Father! I am convinced that 4th grade is the best grade and I love being a part of such an exciting year.

Grade 4B
*Mrs. Maura Dalian:  mdalian@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2242
Education: BA Education, Art Education, English and MA Art Ed, Children’s Literature and Literature
What I enjoy about teaching at St. Francis School is working with the kids and their wonderfully supportive parents. They are the reason I show up everyday. God has blessed me with this fabulous opportunity for over 30 years. I am grateful and humbled by the privilege.

Grade 5A
Mrs. Patricia O’Sullivan:  posullivan@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2251
Education: BS Biology, MA Reading
My husband and my three children attended St Francis School, so, as a family, we have a long history at this unique school. I enjoy working at St. Francis School because of the terrific students, the extremely supportive families and the faith-filled atmosphere.

Grade 5B
Mrs. Kim Verhines:  kverhines@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2252
Education: BA Accounting, Social Science, and Elementary Education
I have been a 5th grade teacher at St. Francis since 2002. I teach religion, spelling, social studies, math and science. I love creating exciting science lessons and lab activities to make learning fun! I enjoy teaching at St. Francis because of the wonderful supportive families and staff.

Grade 6A
Mrs. Donna Lee:  dlee@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2261
Education: B.A. International Studies, M.A. Elementary Education
I feel so grateful to be part of the St. Francis community! I am currently in my 11th year of teaching and have been blessed to teach in a variety of schools including Catholic and Public schools. I have over 11 years experience as a teacher, working in both lower elementary and middle schools.  I am excited to be  the 6th Grade Religion and ELA teacher and look forward to watching students continually grow  and develop their love for reading and writing.

Grade 6B
Mr. Patrick Laughlin:  plaughlin@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2262
Education: B.A. Social Studies (RX): History and Political Science for Secondary Education, Communication and Theatre Arts Teaching for Secondary Education.
The opportunity to join the St. Francis’ team and to become a part of the community as a 6th grade teacher is a very exciting leap of faith. I have lived in the area for almost 10 years and have taught in a public school system for the last 15 years teaching various Social Studies subjects and Drama. In my time teaching and coaching it has become my passion to encourage children to build their basic skill levels, create their own understanding, and finally to find their confidence to share it with others.

Grade 6 Math/Science
Mrs. Tina Kivela:  tkivela@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2260
Education: BS Brain Behavior and Cognitive Sciences and Post-Baccalaureate degree in Elementary Education, Science Endorsement
I have been part of the Saint Francis community for 6 years as a parent, and couldn’t be happier to have joined the staff. I have always loved math and science, and I am excited to share that with the sixth grade students.

Middle School/Homeroom 7A
Mrs. Gina Carney:  gcarney@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2271
Education: BA in English for Secondary Education, Master of Library and Information Science
I feel so blessed to be a part of the St. Francis staff!  My family returned to Michigan after living in China for two and a half years, and we are all so happy to come home to St. Francis.  I look forward to teaching in this community that is so filled with Christ’s love!

Middle School/Homeroom 7B/Science
Mrs. Barbara Anderson:  banderson@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2285
Education: BS in Science, MS in Science, MA in Secondary Education
I feel so blessed to be welcomed into the St. Francis community.  After having worked in other schools for 12 years, moving to Ann Arbor from out of state and coming to St. Francis has been a very rewarding and exciting new adventure! I have enjoyed getting to know the kids and watching them explore science, math and religion.   I am also so grateful for the supportive and involved parent community.  I feel lucky to be part of a community so invested in helping our kids learn and grow!

Middle School/Homeroom 8A
Mrs. Megan DeVerna:  mdeverna@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2281
Education: BS Secondary Education, MA Education
I have been teaching Middle School Social Studies and English for many years. I love being able to support students as they navigate their adolescence years. St. Francis is such a special school and I feel truly blessed to be part of it as both a teacher and a parent. 

Middle School/Language Arts – 8th Grade
Mrs. Mitra Dunbar: mdunbar@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2272
Education: BA English and History, MA The Teaching of Writing
I feel blessed to join the St. Francis of Assisi staff as the eighth grade English Language Arts teacher. I hold a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and History from Michigan State University and a Master of Arts Degree in The Teaching of Writing from Eastern Michigan University. In addition to my work at St. Francis, I am a lecturer in the Department of English Language and Literature at Eastern Michigan University and a fellow of the National Writing Project.

Middle School/Math/ Homeroom 8B
*Mr. Christopher Stankovic:  cstankovic@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2282
Education:  BS Secondary Education/Math
I am very excited to be teaching at St. Francis. I went to this school from 1st – 6th grade. My family had to move after my 6th grade year, so I was not able to finish out middle school at St. Francis. I attended Central Michigan University for my degree in Education. It is great to come back here now and see some familiar faces and see some new changes.

Art 
Mrs. Jennifer Nowicki: jnowicki@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2297
Education: BFA, MA Reading
I am a parishioner at St. Andrew the Apostle.  The most influential spiritual person in my life was my aunt, who was a Sister of Mercy in Farmington Hills.  She was an artist, an art teacher, and did extensive public service around the world.  I decided to put my artistic talents to use to serve God by becoming an art teacher.  I find sharing my abilities very rewarding.  When I am not at school, I enjoy spending time with my family.

Band Director
Mrs. Janet Sommerfeld:  jsommerfeld@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2298
Education: BM and MM
I am the band director responsible for instrumental music education at St. Francis. We have three bands in fifth through 8th grade. I have enjoyed teaching at St. Francis for over 20 years. I value the positive attitude of the students and their strong parental support of our programs. I enjoy working with the students each and every day to master their instrument and accompany them on their journey to musical success.

Choir Director
Mrs. Laura Bogan:  lbogan@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2200 x 295
Education: BM and MM
I direct the Elementary and Middle School Choirs at St. Francis, and prepare cantors for our school liturgies. I am grateful for the opportunity to prepare our students to serve in the liturgy, and to use their gifts and talents for the glory of God. The sound of young voices leading us in worship is extraordinary! St. Francis has a long tradition of excellence and support of liturgical music- I am honored to be a part of the tradition, and grateful to be a part of this community.

Librarian
Ms. Beth Shaum:  bshaum@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2293
Education: BS Elementary Education/MA English Studies
As both a student and teacher in Catholic schools for many years, I am grateful that I can share my faith with others. In my ten years as an English teacher, I became known as the person to go see for a good book recommendation. That reputation led me to moving from the classroom to the library and I couldn’t be happier. Helping students (and adults!) find what lights their fire as readers and learners isn’t just a job for me — it is a calling.

Music
Mrs. Robin Woodard:  rwoodard@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2294
Education: BME (Music Education)
I have taught in private and public schools around the country as my husband and I moved with his Navy career.  I love being able to share my passion for music education with the students here at St. Francis.  I feel very fortunate to work in such a supportive environment where the arts are so valued and appreciated. When I am not teaching, I love to travel with my husband and three children.

Athletic Director/Physical Education
Mr. Dominic Schmidt: dschmidt@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2206
Education: Bachelors in Accounting and Business Administration, ACE Certified
I am the youngest of 9 in my family and recently moved here from Grand Rapids, MI! I am brand new not only to St. Francis, but also to teaching athletics and physical education! I’ve always been very passionate about sports and fitness training, as well as being involved in my Catholic faith and family! The St. Francis community truly values faith, family, academics, and athletics so I am very grateful to be part of it and looking forward to building new relationships with great people!

Physical Education/MS Math
Mr. Jeff Moyer: jmoyer@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2208
Education:  B.A. Physical Education
I am thrilled to be teaching at St. Francis! I have taught physical education and math in a Catholic school for many years. I have only been here a short time but I am already loving it. The staff, students, and parents have been so supportive and caring it has made for a great teaching experience!

Physical Education
Mrs. Karen Pilon: kpilon@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2200 x403
Education: BS Education concentration in Math and science
I have always taught in a Catholic school and appreciate being able to teach our faith and values everyday. I have been in the St. Francis community since my oldest began Kindergarten in 2012. I enjoy being a parent here and began subbing when my youngest started preschool. Becoming a staff member has been wonderful. I am lucky to be in a school where I get the opportunity to know all the children who attend.

Spanish (K-5)
Señora Rossana Swartz:  rswartz@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2283
Education: BA in Liberal Arts, MA in Education/Curriculum and Instruction
I feel so blessed to be given the opportunity to be teaching K-5 Spanish at St. Francis. Overall, I have 21 years of teaching Spanish experience. I love to teach, spend quality time with my family and learning and appreciating different cultures through traveling. I’ve spent a great amount of time in Italy, Spain and Costa Rica. My goal is to teach Spanish language and culture by using fun and creative ways in order for students to have a true appreciation for Spanish.

Spanish (6-8)
Señorita Anna Damiani:  adamiani@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2284
Education:  BA History and Spanish, MA Education
I was baptized at St. Francis and feel blessed to be coming home!  Following graduation from the University of Michigan, I lived and worked in Mexico for 4 years.  I have also studied abroad in Spain and done volunteer work in Ecuador.  My goal is to increase student interest in Spanish language and culture, while developing speaking, listening, and reading skills.

Teacher Consultant
Dr. Jane Gordon:  jgordon@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2209
Education: BA Economics, MA Elementary Education, PhD Reading and Learning Disabilities.
As the School Teacher Consultant, I work with parents and the Ann Arbor schools as a facilitator. I most enjoy the opportunity to work with the children, families and staff of St. Francis. It is a joy to watch the children learn and grow over the years.

Technology
*Mr. Patrick Peck:  ppeck@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2297
Education: