Wichita Collegiate School

Middle School Contacts

I have had a broad career in education over the past 28 years working with students of all ages and backgrounds in a variety of settings. Many of those years I served as a school counselor.  I have an undergraduate degree from Wake Forest University, a Master’s Degree from the University of North Florida, and a Doctorate from the University of Florida in Counselor Education.

Serving in the role of Head of Middle School for the past 8 years has been a privilege. I count it a blessing to work with such dedicated and talented faculty, curious and intelligent students and supportive and caring parents. This is the winning combination for preparing students for success in college and beyond.

I am also delighted that my two children and husband can participate in the life of Collegiate. WCS has enriched our family’s life in many ways. I know that my girls are receiving a quality education and are being nurtured to become all that they can be.

After graduating from Texas A&M University and teaching in the public schools for two years, I joined the Collegiate family in 2000.  For 14 years, I enjoyed teaching 7^th grade biology, but after finishing my Master’s Degree in School Leadership, I had the opportunity to move into the Middle School Dean position, and I love it!  Through daily interaction with my students, I get to know each and every one of them in grades 5^th-8^th.  I kind of feel like their “school mom”.   While in the middle school, my hope is that I can help all students appreciate the core values of integrity, hard work, compassion, wisdom, and respect through role modeling.  I understand adolescents and know how rough middle school can be for children.  I want to help guide every one of them get through this, sometimes, challenging part of growing up with confidence.

I consider Collegiate my second home and have watched my own two children grow up here under the guidance of many wonderful teachers and faculty.  I feel blessed to work in this loving environment.  Go Spartans!

I am a graduate of Bethel College with my undergrad in Physical Education and I received my Master’s from Wichita State University in Sports Management. I am the Speed & Strength Coordinator, teach strength training classes in the upper school, and teach 7th & 8th grade PE in the middle school. I am the defensive coordinator for the upper school football team and I am the sprint coach for the upper school track team. I also serve as the middle school athletic director. My step-son is a 2014 graduate of Wichita Collegiate and my youngest attends school here as well. I love sharing my passion for the weight room with my students and student - athletes. The commitment by the students to the programs I am involved in is second to none. I have had the opportunity to teach at other schools and there is not a better school in the state or country in my opinion.

http://coachblacksblog.blogspot.com/

I have been teaching at Collegiate since 1998. Teaching was not my first career choice, however, now I cannot imagine doing anything else. I graduated from Kansas State University with a degree in Human Development and Family Studies. Married, jobless and living in Harrisonville, MO, I took on a substitute teaching job and loved it, which ultimately led me to where I am today.  I earned my Elementary Education degree from Wichita State University while raising two young boys who are now Collegiate graduates. Children are my true passion and what I love most about my job. I am constantly grateful for the opportunity to help precious children navigate and feel comfortable in what can sometimes be an anxious first year of middle school.

http://http//wcs5thlit.blogspot.com/

“History, after all, is the memory of a nation.” Part of appreciating the memory that John F. Kennedy refers to is more than just knowing static events and dates. My role as a middle school history teacher is to make history matter to young scholars. History becomes personal and relevant to students when they use historical thinking strategies to interpret primary sources, guided by their own inquiry and analysis. Learning to “think historically” is the key. After reflecting on 29 years in the classroom, I see my life’s work as transforming educational experiences with children. With a degree from Valparaiso University, teaching experience near Austin and in Chicago, and eighteen years at Wichita Collegiate, I am proud to continue this pursuit as a Spartan. For a closer look, visit History Hotspot at

www.marthaleaf.blogspot.com.

My teaching career began in the fifth grade classroom of a small country school. In 2000 I came to Collegiate and taught first grade for 14 years. It is exciting to be back in the fifth grade classroom where I now teach English. I have a BA in education from WSU and am currently pursuing an MA in English. I have been passionate about reading and writing for as long as I can remember. My husband Jerry and I have three grown children and four grandchildren. Our youngest son Grant is a 2007 WCS alum. Reading and journaling are two of my favorite hobbies. I also enjoy traveling, cooking, gardening, and spending time with family and friends. One of my favorite quotes is by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow - “The love of learning, the sequestered nooks, and all the sweet serenity of books.”

http://wcsthewriterscup.blogspot.com/

Rebecca joined us from Meadowlark Elementary in Andover where she taught 4th grade.  Prior to that she was an instructional coach and classroom teacher at USD 259 for 10 years.  While at USD 259 she was the winner of a Golden Apple Award and served on her building leadership team for 9 years.  Rebecca brings a warmth and professionalism that both our students and parents love!  Rebecca is also the wife of 6th grade teacher Joe Gehrer and mother to Lucy, Olivia, and Crosby.

http://rgehrer.wix.com/wcsks

As an alum of the class of 2002, I have spent most of my life on the campus of WCS. I cannot think of a better school community to be a part of.  I graduated from Emporia State University with a Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education.  After teaching 3rd grade for Andover Public Schools, I have been teaching 6th grade Literature at WCS since the fall of 2010.  I am extremely privileged to help provide the education I myself received from this wonderful school.  I also serve as the Varsity Baseball coach in the spring.

http://wcsthinkspot.blogspot.com/

After teaching middle school math for twenty-three years in public school, I joined the amazing staff at Collegiate in 2005. What a blessing this has been! I hold a B.A.T. with an emphasis in math from Sam Houston State University and an M.B.A. in finance from the University of Houston. It is a joy to help students build confidence in their math ability and challenge them to become strong problem solvers. For over twenty years, I have also enjoyed my role as a MATHCOUNTS coach. This program is designed for sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students who have a high interest in math. For more information, please visit my blog.

http://mrsschwarzsblog.blogspot.com/

History is the most amazing thing to examine of all our classes…because we are creating it every day! I have been at WCS since 1977 (there’s that History thing again!), and I have been privileged to watch our school blossom into THE best school in the Midwest. My wife Sally and I have three grown children, all of whom attended WCS and graduated from here. I grew up in New York and Nebraska (preacher’s kid!) and attended York College and Harding University, as well as accumulating Masters hours at WSU.  I LOVE exploring the twists and turns of our nations’ past with our students, and the chance to impress upon them their thread in the quilt of our society! Proba Te Dignum!

http://wcs7hawley.blogspot.com/

I have a wonderful wife Tanya and two children, Katrina and Tristan, at Wichita Collegiate and I have taught here since 1995.  Every year while at Collegiate I have taught Okiniawan Goju Ryu Karate, in the spring of 2009 I started a Rock Band class for 7th and 8th graders, I coached tennis for nine years and I was assistant coach for MS girls basketball for two years.  I received a bachelor's degree in Latin and English with a minor in Greek and graduated Cum Laude from Wichita State University.  I grew up in Conway Springs, KS a small town about 30 miles south west of Wichita.  I enjoy playing music, reading, playing video games, physical fitness training, and movies. 

https://sites.google.com/a/wcsks.com/leddyj/home

One language sets you in a corridor for life. Two languages open every door along the way. – (Frank Smith)

Coming from a multilingual background and a multicultural experience, (where speaking many languages at a time was very common), gave me the passion to work as hard as I can to pass this “moto” to the new generation at this time of globalization and cultural openness. After I graduated in Journalism and Mass Media in Lebanon, I worked as a reporter for the Lebanese Presidential Palace and I wrote for various political newspapers and magazines. Upon my arrival to the U.S.A., I hosted a TV show in Wichita for three years in which I discussed women, diversity and cultural issues.

My passion for languages, led me in 2010, to teach French at Wichita State University. In 2011, I developed the Arabic program for the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department at WSU, where I am also currently developing the Online French courses.

I am so proud to join the Wichita Collegiate School family this year and to be part of its wonderful professional environment. I look forward to share my passion of teaching languages with its students and to contribute in opening many doors along their way. 

Linsey came to WCS from Riviera Hall Lutheran School in Redondo Beach, CA where she taught for five years, was the Middle School Math and Science Department Chair, and Chair of their school Leadership Committee.  Prior to moving to California, she taught first grade in the Maize School District.  She is a Wichita native, former entrepremeur, world traveler and amazing teacher!

https://sites.google.com/a/wcsks.com/7th-grade-life-science-with-ms-brandt/?pli=1

I  was born in England and hold dual citizenship from both the United Kingdom and the United States. I obtained an undergraduate degree in English, History and French from the University of London as well as both undergraduate and graduate degrees in English/Education from the University of Maryland.  I have taught English language and literature from sixth grade through college and French courses from kindergarten through twelfth grade in a number of states including Maryland, Texas, North and South Carolina as well as Missouri and Kansas. At present, I am the eighth grade English teacher and Eighth Grade Team Leader.  My passion is working with students, especially those inquisitive minds  at Collegiate, and  I am thrilled to see the progress they make throughout the eighth grade year at that critical juncture between middle school and high school.

https://sites.google.com/a/wcsks.com/dunleavyc/home

I have always believed that one of the best ways to influence our world is by being a teacher. I love to see the gleam in a young person’s eye when they reach that moment of understanding. Finally, I love to learn too! So I enjoy learning new things about science and teaching as I work in the classroom.  I began teaching at Collegiate in 1991 and have taught 8th grade physical science and Upper School physics and AP Physics. I have also coached MS football, US baseball, US Robotics and both US and MS Science Olympiad. During the years I have been so impressed with our tremendous faculty, excited students and supportive parents. Collegiate really is a community that is focused on the goal of an outstanding education. I am proud to have been a part of this community.

https://sites.google.com/a/wcsks.com/hawleys/home

I have a wonderful wife Tanya and two children, Katrina and Tristan, at Wichita Collegiate and I have taught here since 1995.  Every year while at Collegiate I have taught Okiniawan Goju Ryu Karate, in the spring of 2009 I started a Rock Band class for 7th and 8th graders, I coached tennis for nine years and I was assistant coach for MS girls basketball for two years.  I received a bachelor's degree in Latin and English with a minor in Greek and graduated Cum Laude from Wichita State University.  I grew up in Conway Springs, KS a small town about 30 miles south west of Wichita.  I enjoy playing music, reading, playing video games, physical fitness training, and movies. 

https://sites.google.com/a/wcsks.com/leddyj/home

Doug has 15 years of experience teaching middle school and high school mathematics, 13 of those in the British Virgin Islands where he taught at a private IB school and in public schools.  Before his teaching career he was an IT executive and has been able to utilize those technology skills in the integration of technology in his classroom.  He has a wealth of knowledge, energy and enthusiasm.  He and his wife Kathy are originally from Kansas and are happy to be back near family.

http://dbradley4.wixsite.com/wcsgrade8math

I am a graduate of Bethel College with my undergrad in Physical Education and I received my Master’s from Wichita State University in Sports Management. I am the Speed & Strength Coordinator, teach strength training classes in the upper school, and teach 7th & 8th grade PE in the middle school. I am the defensive coordinator for the upper school football team and I am the sprint coach for the upper school track team. I also serve as the middle school athletic director. My step-son is a 2014 graduate of Wichita Collegiate and my youngest attends school here as well. I love sharing my passion for the weight room with my students and student - athletes. The commitment by the students to the programs I am involved in is second to none. I have had the opportunity to teach at other schools and there is not a better school in the state or country in my opinion.

http://coachblacksblog.blogspot.com/

“Develop a passion for learning.  If you do, you will never cease to grow and be amazed.”
Collegiate helps develop the whole child, and Enhancement classes are a major component of this.  I have the privilege of being an Enhancement teacher including classes such as Problem-solving, Entrepreneurship, Music Explorations, Values in Action, and Old and New Testament.  I started my career as an English Literature teacher in Chicago, and I also have a degree in music.  Through the course of working in several private schools, I have loved every opportunity to get to know middle-school students and use creativity to discover new subjects.  I consider WCS one of the biggest blessings in my own life, and that of my children!

www.wcsvaluesinaction.blogspot.com, www.wcsentrepreneurship.com, www.wcsoldandnewtestament.com

Carri came to us from Andover Central Middle School with 17 years of experience teaching Middle School Physical Education.  Her energy and passion for her craft are contagious.  Her goals are to help guide her students toward healthy self-esteem, fitness choices and team building skills.  She has years of coaching experience and has competed in various athletic competitions.  She has among her many awards Kansas Teacher of the Year (KAHPERD) and KAKE 10 Golden Apple Award and has been a presenter at state and national conferences.

I am a graduate of Wichita State University, where I completed both Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Instrumental Music Education. I strive for passion and excitement in the instrumental music classroom, and hope the musical experiences of the Collegiate student lead them to a lifetime of Fine Arts Appreciation! When not in the classroom, I am active as a professional musician, performing on upright and electric bass in area jazz groups, musical productions, and with the pop/rock cover band, Lucky People.

https://sites.google.com/a/wcsks.com/fischert/

I graduated from Friends University with a Music Business Degree in 2008 where I was highly involved in the percussion department and jazz program. I have now been teaching instrumental music at WCS ever since and I love it! I strive to help each student find their own voice on their instrument, and with that find an outlet to be creative. Outside of work I perform professionally on percussion and drumset for local jazz concerts, musicals, and many other live music productions. I also enjoy going to concerts, composing, running, golf, roasting/drinking coffee, and most of all my family.

https://sites.google.com/a/wcsks.com/hakes/home

After working more than a decade in the Andover school system, I’m delighted to find a home at Collegiate.  As the Middle School Transitions teacher, I’m excited to share a part as our students mature throughout middle school and prepare for high school.  What an exciting and change-filled time middle school is!  I hold a degree in Psychology (and a Master’s in Criminal Justice), which will, no doubt, help us as we navigate the “growing up” process. Originally from the St. Louis area, I married a native Kansan, and my husband and I raised our family in Andover. Our two children are grown, but Ron and I are still active in our community. Outside of school, I teach yoga and enjoy reading, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.  

http://wcstransitions.blogspot.com/

I have had the privilege of teaching the Spanish Language to the amazing 4th, 5th and 6th graders since 2012. Being part of this wonderful school  makes me feel like the most blessed person on earth. Everyone here is just great and caring I am looking forward to learning more from this family and sharing what I know as well. Glad I have learned about the past, extremely happy to be part of the present and excited for the future of all of our students! 

http://wcsmiespanol.blogspot.com//

My husband and I moved to Wichita from the United Kingdom in 1997 for a three year job opportunity and I am pleased to say we loved Wichita so much that we decided to stay. I graduated from the University of North Wales, Bangor with a B.Mus(Hons.) and also completed my Post Graduate Cerificate of Education. Prior to WCS I worked at Clifton College and Redmaids in Bristol and Wycombe Abbey School just west of London. We have two boys who have both attended Collegiate and who thrived on the ethos that ‘at Collegiate you can do it all’. Currently I teach the AP Music theory class, vocal music in the Middle School and I am the Fine Arts Department Chair.  I enjoy sharing my love for music with my students both in the classroom, on the stage and in the community. Music should be fun!

https://sites.google.com/a/wcsks.com/mrs-powell-s-page1/

Emily came to WCS from The Independent School where she served as the Director of Fine Arts, the Upper School Fine Arts Department Chair and the Upper School Drama Teacher for the past 13 years.  She has a Bachelor's Degree in Theatre Acting and Design and two Master's Degrees, one in Elementary Education and the other in Theater Studies in Production and Design.  She has been an active leader both in her previous school and in the community.  Her numerous awards for producting, directing, costumes, graphic design, sets, costumes, and lighting are too many to list!  Our students are learning so much from this knowledgeable and passionate teacher.

http://goodpasturedrama.blogspot.com/

I am a graduate of the University of Kentucky with a degree in Communications.  I attended UK on a football scholarship and graduated in 1989.  I worked for the Burlington Northern Santa Fe until our youngest was born in 2005.  In 2006 I began coaching at Collegiate and working with the middle school aged kids.  I've coached at the middle school level since and have also taken on 5th and 6th grade physical education.  Our youngest is now in middle school and we would not want him any where else.  All of our kids have or are attending Collegiate and my wife and I couldn't be happier.  This is/has been a wonderful place to raise our children.

http://wcsboyspe.blogspot.com/

The Prechtel family’s relationship with Collegiate began over fifty years ago. My father-in-law was a member of the original board and my husband was a member of the second graduating class. My relationship with Collegiate began when we brought our daughter, Abbie ’97, to preschool in 1982. For the next 10 years I was an at home mom who became very involved with Collegiate life. I helped with classroom projects, was a member of CAP, and a volunteer in the library. In 1993, Bunny Hill gave me the chance of a lifetime and I became the Upper School librarian. I worked under a Head Librarian who encouraged me to return to school to earn my Masters in Library Science. In 2001, I completed my MLS at Emporia State. I feel blessed every day that I have the opportunity to work at Collegiate. My dream is for Collegiate to grow stronger with each passing year and to one day celebrate its one hundredth anniversary.

https://sites.google.com/a/wcsks.com/prechtell/