Meet the Sixth Grade Team!
We would like to take this time to introduce you to our Hamilton team of classroom teachers that will serve sixth grade students across their core academic day in the 2020-2021 school year. Below you will find photos and short bio statements for teachers, all of whom work to support sixth grade students. Bio statements present each staff member's general approach to teaching and learning, along with a sentence or two about who each is as a person. On behalf of the entire team, welcome to Hamilton!
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Erik Branch
Classroom Teacher
I want to create a class that kids are excited to be in because it's full of learning and laughs. I live with my family in McFarland, WI. Between Wright Middle School and Hamilton I've taught for over 20 years.
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Adama Guede
Classroom Teacher
I believe that all students deserve the right to learn, especially those within our most vulnerable populations. When they thrive, we all thrive. I love the work that I do and am lucky to be able to work with wonderful kids!
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Jordan Meiller
Classroom Teacher
The best part of teaching is seeing how much students grow over the course of a year. I enjoy collectively building a strong classroom community that is fun, challenging, and fosters a sense of belonging for students. In my free time I like to play volleyball, garden, kayak and spend as much time outside as possible!
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Pat Pfann
Classroom Teacher
I want my students to be and feel successful, heard, seen, valued, supported and welcome in my class. I set high expectations for my students but I am there every step of the way supporting and encouraging them. I love to read and I hope I can help students find books that they love. I am a runner, baker, a yogi, and a mom.
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Sarah Gores Lund
Classroom Teacher
I enjoy the awesome energy, creativity & curiosity students bring to VHMS & the classroom each day! Their ideas never cease to amaze me! Learning with them is a gift! My husband of 20 years, Mark, & I have two amazing kids - Margaret (18) & Stan (16). I received my degrees from UW-Madison & am an avid Badgers (& Packers) fan! I come from a family of ten! I love spending time with family & taking walks. Fond du Lac, WI, is where I was born & raised. I love Wisconsin for so many reasons!
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Shelly Duffield
Classroom Teacher
My approach is building a strong classroom community. Students should have voice and choice in what their classroom should focus on insofar as instruction and demonstration of knowledge. I have been teaching in Madison my whole career, including 16 years at Schenk Elementary. Keeping me busy ALL THE TIME, are my two sons who are in 1st & 3rd grade. Running on trails and being with children in a classroom, are two of my favorite things.
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Justin Kruger
Classroom Teacher
I have a whole student approach to teaching and learning with clear learning outcomes and steps on how to reach those outcomes. I have a dog, two cats, two toddler daughters and a wife. I'm passionate about the outdoors and nature and have a diverse background of experiences that influence how I teach. Welcome!
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Calliope Jordahl
Classroom Teacher
I believe students learn best when they are actively involved. I enjoy creating a community where students feel supported to take risks that help them grow socially and academically. I grew up in Madison. I live in the Hamilton attendance area with my husband, three kids ages 12-19, and two spinones (dogs).
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Jody Strasser
Classroom Teacher
In order for us to learn we need to have fun and work as a community in the classroom. I love the outdoors and have many interests and hobbies. I love learning new things and having fun and encouraging others to try. I am so looking forward to meeting the new sixth graders.
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Bob Wiedholz
Classroom Teacher
My approach to a successful year involves getting kids active in their learning. In math that means kids talking about their math thinking, and in social studies that means hands-on, interactive units. I am a married, father of 3 who is passionate about the outdoors. I am handy, helpful and usually happy.
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