Elementary Principal and District Compliance Officer
Originally from downstate Michigan, Andrea moved to the Upper Peninsula a
decade ago. With an extensive background in education, she has held
various roles, ranging from paraprofessional to teacher and school
leader. Before taking on leadership responsibilities, Andrea taught
elementary classes spanning from kindergarten to fifth grade. She earned
an Education Specialist degree from Northern Michigan University.
Driven by a passion for providing an authentic education model, Andrea is
dedicated to enabling all students to reach their full potential.
In her previous leadership position, Andrea seized the opportunity to
guide and inspire educators to reassess their views on education. She
emphasized the importance of adapting to the evolving needs of students
in a rapidly changing world. Andrea firmly believes in the inherent
potential of all children to learn and grow, asserting that it is our
collective responsibility to ensure they reach their maximum potential.
Outside of work, Andrea treasures her time with her husband and five
sons. Their shared interests include camping, hiking, skiing, kayaking,
traveling, and enjoying all the UP has to offer!
Why Andrea chose MIPS:
"I chose to become a school leader at MIPS because I am deeply passionate
about redefining and expanding the possibilities of education in the
digital age. Recognizing the transformative potential of virtual
learning, I am committed to leveraging technology to create an innovative
and inclusive educational environment for elementary students. As a
school leader in the virtual realm, I see the opportunity to break down
geographical barriers, ensuring that all students have access to
high-quality education regardless of their location. Embracing the
challenges and opportunities presented by online education, I am excited
to lead a team in fostering creativity, adaptability, and a sense of
community among both students and educators in this evolving educational
landscape."
Rose Anyim
5th Grade Teacher
Rose is an elementary teacher at Michigan International Prep School. Born in Nigeria and raised in Cleveland Ohio, she is a proud Screaming Eagle of the Nigerian Soccer Team and a staunch Ohio State fan. Rose earned her bachelor’s degree in Biology and a minor in French from the University of Akron. She earned an MBA/Global Management degree from the University of Phoenix. She also holds certifications in English Language Teaching and Teaching English as a Foreign Language. She is currently completing her Michigan Elementary Teaching Licensure. Rose has over 15 years of experience in various classroom settings that encompasses all academic levels, both foreign and domestic.
Rose began her journey in education working as a Teaching Fellow through a non-profit organization, Teachers For Africa. From there, she fell in love with teaching and traveling the world at the same time. She has lived and worked on every continent except for Australia and Antarctica, with hopes of traveling to both places in the near future.
In her spare time Rose enjoys spending time with her family and keeping in contact with her vast array of friends, family members and former students from all over the world. She is an avid sports fan and hosts the best Sunday Game Days! Rose also loves to read, write and plans to develop her own Traveling Teacher Blog.
Why Rose chose MIPS:
"I chose to be a part of MIPS because the team is dedicated to forming partnerships with families and communities to provide learning experiences that will not only help students succeed academically, but globally. My many years teaching and living abroad have taught me that education and a positive outlook can change the world. I also value the personalization of education that MIPS delivers to every student. I strongly believe that everyone is entitled to their own unique journey to learning. Working here at MIPS, I would like to continue to empower youth to strive for the unbelievable, to conquer their fears, embrace challenges, and learn for the thrill of it!"
Alissa Boczkaja
4th Grade Teacher
Alissa is in her seventh year of teaching. She earned a Bachelor’s degree
from Michigan State, and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from
Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Alissa loves spending time with
her 2-year-old son, Ari, husband, Jeff, and entitled dog, Maverick. When
she’s not outside playing with her son, she is doing CrossFit with her
husband.
Why Alissa chose MIPS:
"I chose MIPS for a number of reasons. First, the flexibility for
families. After having my son, I saw traditional brick-and-mortar school
through a new lens. I love that MIPS doesn’t set limits for learners, yet
provides support along the way, and encourages relationships at the same
time. I truly believe it is a place where students can thrive and make
the most out of their education."
KAitlyn Curtis
3rd Grade Mentor
Kaitlyn is a very determined mother who strives for success in all things
life has for her. She currently home coaches her three children all
while attending college in pursuant of her Associates in Office
Administration.
She has worked most of her professional career in healthcare but many
more years being a Stay At Home Mom. So she understands the struggle of
finding routine and being successful in day-to-day life/work balance.
She spends her free time with her family, gardening (when the weather
permits), and reading books. Her favorite pastime is spending any time
she can outdoors in the fresh air.
Why Kaitlyn chose MIPS:
"I chose MIPS because I believe that children can get a quality education
in the comfort of their home through them. I love everything that is
offered to students education and arts wise. I believe as a Home Coach
Mentor that I would be very helpful with my experience as an online
student, home coach parent, and with the transition of my children
priorly in the brick-mortar setting."
Morgan Everingham
K-5 Math Interventionist
Morgan believes that math is playful and that every child can achieve
success. With a degree in Elementary Education and a specialization in
Mathematics from Michigan State University, Morgan has worked
professionally to collaborate with the Michigan Early Math team to build
a video library aimed at enhancing essential mathematical skills for
young learners. Whether hiking, camping, or enjoying the art of
sourdough baking, Morgan values time spent with her husband, son and two
cherished dogs.
Why Morgan chose MIPS:
"After teaching in elementary education for many years, I was eager to
reconnect with my passion for mathematics. Joining MIPS will allow me to
immerse myself in a team of educators known for their collaborative
spirit and innovative use of technology in an ever-changing educational
landscape. I chose MIPS because I've heard consistently positive
feedback about their approach and impact. This opportunity not only
aligns with my professional goals but also promises to be a fulfilling
journey where I can contribute meaningfully to advancing math education."
Kerry Fleet
K-5 Art Instructor
Ms. Kerry Fleet is a creative and caring art teacher. She has more than nine years of experience teaching students of all ages, from kindergarten through 12th grade. She graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Art Education and a concentration in ceramics. In 2009, Ms. Fleet had the opportunity to travel to South Africa to teach art at The Ubuntu School in Pietermaritzburg. While there, she was able to share and grow her passion for the arts and learning. Ms. Fleet also worked as a graphic designer at the Indiana Geological Survey, where she developed an interest in digital art.
Ms. Fleet became an art teacher so she could inspire young people and broaden their appreciation of art in an encouraging manner. Her hope is to share the love of art that has been her passion since she was young. Ms. Fleet’s teaching style focuses on process and the art-making experience, as a higher priority than the finished result. She provides supportive guidance to each student she works with, so that they may develop creatively in their own unique way. She hopes to inspire children to appreciate and welcome their creativity and imagination through making art.
In her free time, Ms. Fleet loves to spend time with family, hike, and travel. She’s been to Ireland, South Africa, Mozambique, Peru, Alaska, Hawaii, and loves to practice her photography and art journaling while traveling. Creating cross-curricular projects with art and nature is something Ms. Fleet is very passionate about. While not teaching, Ms. Fleet also loves to draw, paint, and embroider. Her artwork has been displayed at art galleries and art festivals. She is eager to help further develop each MIPS student’s passion for the arts.
Why Kerry chose MIPS:
"I chose MIPS because it’s a school that values Arts Education. Art can do so many positive things, including increasing self-confidence, self-understanding, and improving communication skills, and MIPS is a school that realizes this. We offer so many unique classes and opportunities for our students to find their creative potential. I’m proud to be part of the MIPS Arts Team, to help guide and inspire students every day!"
Jennifer Gray
3rd Grade Teacher
Jenifer is a compassionate teacher with a love for all types of
educational fields. She received her degree in Elementary Education from
Northern Michigan University with a double minor in mathematics and
science. Jennifer is a wife, a mother to two girls (ages 2.5 and 10ths), and a
kitten mom. She loves to travel in her free time and give her daughters
real-world experiences. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with
her family and going on morning walks with a large mug of tea.
Why Jennifer chose MIPS:
"The flexibility of the program, alongside the opportunity to work with
students and families remotely had the largest appeal. In addition to
those things, I have heard (and now experienced) what a supportive and
welcoming family MIPS is toward their staff, and I'm so excited to now be
apart of that."
Kimberly Hampton
K-5 Asynchronous Mentor
Kim is a mentor at the Davison location. She graduated from Grand Blanc
High School and has lived in Genesee County her entire life. She
graduated from Baker College of Flint in 2010 and began her career as a
physical therapy assistant. She enjoyed working as a PTA for 10 years
until Covid hit. She decided to stay home during this time and found
fulfillment coaching her son through an online school for kindergarten.
This is where she found her passion for teaching and encouraging young
people. The past 2 years, Kim has been working at her son’s school as a
Title 1 Paraprofessional. She has gained knowledge in planning and
implementing guided reading groups to help kid’s reach their full
potential.
Kim lives in Grand Blanc with her husband, son, and 2 dogs.
She loves traveling and exploring what Michigan has to offer. She spends
most of her time outdoors practicing sports with her son, biking, hiking,
swimming, and geocaching. She is involved with her church in Flint, and
volunteers with all ages of the kids ministry. Kim's passion is to
encourage those around her through the ups and downs of life!
Why Kimberly chose MIPS:
"I wanted to come to MIPS because I believe in their mission! I like how
MIPS custom fits education to each student. They truly value their
students by offering one-on-one support. As a mentor, I aim to help foster
independence, responsibility and accountability for my students. I am
grateful I get to be a part of each student's journey to become their own
unique genius!"
Samantha HoLstine
K-5 Asynchronous Teacher
Samantha is a K-5 Asynchronous Teacher who joined the MIPS team in 2022. She holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education (specializing in language arts) and a master’s in Curriculum and Teaching, both from Michigan State University. Go Green! Her teaching journey began in Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa where she taught English and math, before returning to Lansing to complete student teaching in 1st grade. From there she followed the sunshine down to South Carolina, where Samantha taught second and fourth grades. Family brought her home to Michigan in 2012, where she helped pioneer the field of virtual education, serving for a decade as a 4th grade teacher and high school mentor.
Samantha’s educator passions are global citizenship, meaningful learning through field trips, and celebrating the unique talents and interests of each individual student. Personally she has a love of travel and camping; and would like to talk for much too long about whatever you are reading (especially if it’s fantasy or a classic). She hails from Grand Blanc, where she resides with her husband, son, and their cat, Mackinac.
Why Samantha chose MIPS:
"Like any educator, my main concern is the success and happiness of my students. MIPS has taken great care to build a program that meets learners where they are, helps them grow academically, and provides a vast array of opportunities to develop their interests beyond the core subjects through the power of virtual education. Families are supported by a network of experts to ensure students thrive. The passion for education is evident in everyone who works here, and I am delighted to be a part of the team!"
Amanda hopkins
1st Grade Mentor
Amanda is an our 1st Grade Mentor. She was working towards her Bachelors of Education before shifting focus to her family. Amanda jumped back into the schools as a lunchroom monitor before quickly moving to the role of Paraprofessional. She worked 4 years as a paraprofessional with a focus on reading interventions. Amanda loves seeing children learn and grow. To see students get excited about learning new things and develop their skill is the reason she became a mentor.
Amanda lives in Davison with her Husband and 5 children, 3 boys and 2 girls. You can often find her cheering at her son's football and soccer games or watching her youngest daughter dance at her recitals. She loves spending time with family, walking her 3 dogs, 2 labs and a cockapoo and watching University of Michigan football and basketball games. She enjoys a great cup of coffee and singing on her church's praise team.
Why Amanda chose MIPS:
"I have always enjoyed working with kids; that passion is why I pursued education. I chose MIPS because it gives me the opportunity to work and support students on many different levels. MIPS' focus on the whole student is what makes it a great place to work."
Alisha Jaynes
Lead Special Education Teacher and 504 Coordinator
Alisha is a K-12 Special Education teacher who mainly works with our elementary aged students here at Michigan International Prep School. She has worked with children for many years, serving as a nanny, camp counselor, assistant preschool teacher, substitute teacher, and lead preschool teacher. Alisha holds a Bachelors Degree from Eastern Michigan University in Elementary Education and Special Education.
Alisha resides in the Ann Arbor area with her husband, their two young sons, and their dog and cat. In her free time, Alisha enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, and traveling
Why Alisha chose MIPS:
"As an educator, I truly believe that there is not a “one size fits all” approach to education. I joined MIPS because they strongly believe that individualized learning is one of the keys to providing students with success in their education and beyond. MIPS has allowed me to provide personalized education to my students and develop one-on-one relationships that I don’t feel I would have been able to form in a traditional learning environment. Being a part of the MIPS family has also given me the opportunity to work with other like-minded educators who all have the same priority- our students!"
Teresa Kellerman
K-5 Reading Interventionist
Teresa is a dedicated mother and teacher who is passionate about early
childhood education. She enjoys learning more about behavior and
classroom management. Teresa has three children entering the young adult
phase of life. Her oldest is a nursing student, her middle child is a
gymnast at Michigan State University studying elementary special
education, and her youngest is a senior in high school. She lost her
husband to cancer in the fall of 2021. Prior to her years as his
caregiver, Teresa enjoyed running and competing in triathlons. She
continues to enjoy quilting and sewing projects. Teresa's most recent
endeavor is becoming the owner of Freedom Run Acres as a Siberian Husky
Dog Breeder.
Why Teresa chose MIPS:
"The last ten years of my life have taken me on a journey from the high
points of fitness and parenting while delighting in my career dreams as a
first-grade teacher among an excellent staff. Then we encountered some
parenting challenges and opportunities for me to learn more about
behavioral modifications on a personal level that would also benefit my
role as an educator. After coming out of that valley with my son, my
husband was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma and we began a journey of ups
and downs surrounding his illness and caregiving. He was diagnosed in
February 2019 and passed in October 2021. Transitions with Covid, moving
for Jayson's health in 2020, Jade graduating in 2021, Sage graduating in
2022, Jayson's passing, sending Jade and Sage to college fall of 2022,
and working on transportation to school for Lars has been quite a
whirlwind. As I work to define my next chapter, I was given the
opportunity to take over my friend's dog breeding business. This has
been a dream of mine for several years. To be the best I can be at my
business and maintain my ability to continue my teaching career, a
virtual job is perfect and I was very impressed with the MIPS team!"
Janice martin
4th Grade Mentor
Janice Martin is Michigan International prep school’s 5th grade mentor. Janice has an
associates degree in business management from Baker College and has 28 years of
managerial leadership on her resume with a very successful track record of mentoring
associates into next level positions. While exploring other interests in her career, she started in
schools as a substitute parapro and fell in love with educating students and helping them to reach their full
potential using alternative learning methods to meet their objectives. She also worked for a
year in behavioral health and mentored two students outside the classroom teaching life skills and
getting them engaged in the community through volunteerism and the arts. Janice and her
family have participated in many cultural and student exchange programs and have hosted
students from Germany, France and Taiwan that she still keeps in touch with today. She is
married and has a 19 year old daughter that she loves to travel with...together, they have traveled
to over 20 countries. When she has free time, she loves playing high-strategy board games,
going to the theatre, and playing with her golden-doodle, Weasley.
Why Janice chose MIPS:
"I chose to work at MIPS because I am very passionate about helping people reach their
full potential. I believe that education is not a one-size-fits-all concept.
Getting to know each student on an individual level helps us teach the student as a whole.
understanding that we all have unique ways of retaining information and viewing the world. Having someone
present to validate and magnify your gifts, and to direct you to the resources you need in order to maximize your potential is what makes MIPS unique. MIPS makes sure every student is seen
as an individual and celebrates their uniqueness with tailored learning plans. Teamwork is what
makes the dream work, and MIPS is fully committed to working as a team to ensure every
student has access to everything they need to succeed. I believe our students will leave
MIPS with the educational background and life skills necessary to be our future leaders."
Taurean Moore
1st Grade Teacher
Taurean Moore is the 1st grade teacher at MIPS! In the Winter of 2019, she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, with concentrations in English Language Arts and Spanish, from Oakland University. Over the past 9 years, she has worked joyously with children from 6 weeks of age to 8th grade. She has had the pleasure to work with and serve many children in Southeast Michigan by being a lead infant, toddler, and preschool teacher, high school Spanish tutor, elementary substitute, K-3 academic interventionist, and K-1 academic support coach.
Ms. Moore loves teaching just as much as she loves learning! She believes that it is essential to establish a positive and engaging community and culture with her students so that they feel encouraged to explore, problem-solve, and embrace their creativity!
In her spare time, Ms. Moore enjoys spending time with her family. Some of her passions include cooking and baking, volunteering in her community, learning about other cultures, and traveling. Traveling allows her to deepen her understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity!
Why Taurean chose MIPS:
"I chose MIPS because of its unique approach to education! MIPS knows that learning isn't "one-size-fits-all," a concept I strongly support. The MIPS team ensures that the students are equipped with what they need to succeed. Our school believes in providing individualized learning experiences that embrace personalization and flexibility in a way that truly helps students grow! I enjoy having the opportunity to build personal connections and relationships with my students and their families as we partner to provide authentic learning experiences that meet the needs of the WHOLE child!"
Nicole Oliver
2nd Grade Teacher
Nicole is an elementary mentor-teacher at Michigan International Prep School. Nicole earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Wayne State University. She has many years of experience in a classroom setting, as well as in a virtual learning environment.
Nicole began her journey in education working as a School Age Child Care (SACC) supervisor. From there, she became the primary substitute for a school district in Macomb County where she taught Kindergarten – 12 th grade, and eventually became a permanent preschool teacher. Her passion for virtual learning began when she started working as a coordinator/mentor teacher for a large virtual academy. She also teaches English as a Second Language virtually to children in China!
Outside of MIPS, Nicole has a 9-year-old daughter, Giana. They spend a lot of time at the dance studio where Giana has been dancing and doing Acro since she was 2 years old. When Mom and Giana are not at the dance studio, they enjoy going on bike rides, swimming and taking their annual family trip to Caseville, Michigan. In Nicole’s spare time, she enjoys cooking and gardening.
Why Nicole chose MIPS:
"Ever since I can remember, I’ve always wanted to be an educator. Over the years, I’ve worked in virtual settings, as well as a classroom setting. Teaching virtually provides me the opportunity to work one-on-one with students and to really understand what type of learning is best for them. I believe wholeheartedly that it is important to build a close relationship not only with my students, but also with their families.
I chose to be a part of MIPS because they are dedicated to putting the students’ needs first. I believe that every student learns differently, and it is essential to personalize education to fit the needs of each child with the hope that they will LOVE coming back to see what a new day brings! At MIPS, we strive to individualize education for each and every student. In my eyes, personalizing education and building relationships are the two most important aspects of education. I take great pride in being part of the MIPS Team!
Danielle Parker-Harlan
2nd Grade Mentor
Danielle is an elementary mentor at Michigan International Prep School. She is a graduate from Central Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. When she started her college journey, Danielle was unsure of what to pursue. Her passion was always been helping children, and she decided she could have the biggest impact working in education. Directly after college, she worked as a behavioral technician for children with autism before joining the MIPS team.
In her spare time, Danielle enjoys competing in Motor City Percussion’s indoor drumline and spending time with her significant other. She also enjoys being outside, cooking, and spending time with her two nephews.
Why Danielle chose MIPS:
“I am so excited to work for MIPS and be a mentor for young students! I love the MIPS environment where learning is the goal, but relationships and individualized approaches are the pathways to get there. As someone who experienced trauma in grade school, I understand the impact that having supportive relationships with staff can have. If it wasn’t for some of my teachers and counselors stepping up to give me the support I needed, I wouldn’t be in the position that I am in now. It has been my goal to provide that level of support to the next generation of students so that everyone has the support they need to succeed. At MIPS, I know that every student and parent will be given the individualized support they need and I'm thrilled to work towards that goal!”
Francesca Patrello
5th Grade Mentor
Francesca is a caring and compassionate individual who loves to make
others feel accepted and supported. She has a passion for working with
kids and has plans on becoming an elementary school teacher, which has
been her dream for as long as she can remember. She attended Clarkston
High School and graduated in 2020. Outside of work, Francesca enjoys
reading, hanging out with her yellow lab puppy named Oakley, and
attending lots of concerts with her boyfriend Matthew. Francesca grew up
on a horse farm and loves horseback riding. Francesca worked in the
dental field as a dental assistant for 4 years and is excited to follow
her dreams of working for a school and starting a new role at MIPS!
Why Francesca chose MIPS:
"I first heard about MIPS from my family friend Jared who works for the
school. When I looked into what MIPS was and what this school stands for
I knew this was something I wanted to be a part of. Growing up I
suffered from anxiety and OCD which made school a big trigger to me, I
understand first hand that everyone is different and everyone
views/perceives the world and learns through their own lens. There isn't
a cookie cutter outline of how kids should experience school and I wish
I would have known about something like this while I was going through
school. I love the idea of individualized learning and giving kids the
opportunity to be successful at their own pace. I love how unique MIPS
is with the extra activities they offer outside of school which gives
their students the opportunities to feel included in a community. I am
excited to be a part of a school who prioritizes their students success
and I hope I can be a part of that success."
MEGAN Poli
K-5 Music / Piano Teacher
Ms. Megan Poli has been teaching music for thirteen years at various levels and in various parts of the country for both public and non-profit entities. Among these roles, she has served as a children’s choir clinician, director for a non-profit children’s choir, presented music education research at the national level, and directed multiple musicals. She attended Doane University in Crete, Nebraska where she discovered her passion for sharing and teaching music with young people. During her undergrad, Ms. Poli sang in the top auditioned choir for 4 years, the jazz choir, and played in the symphonic wind ensemble. A few years later, she received her MA in Music Education from the University of Northern Colorado. Her drive and passion is to nurture the musician in all students, and genuinely care and value each individual child.
Mrs. Poli was raised in small-town America, where she found her love for all things music. She grew up performing and singing in children’s choir, church choir, auditioned choir, show choir, band, community choir, and community theater. Mrs. Poli is excited to be moving back to her midwest roots with her fiancé, dog, and kitten. She absolutely loves reading, embracing her inner nerd, cooking, all things outdoors, and is a dog enthusiast.
Why Megan chose MIPS:
"I am SO excited and feel so fortunate to be teaching music at MIPS. The fact that I get to teach what I love to young people, and provide a music education to those who may not otherwise receive one is extremely rewarding.
I chose MIPS because we truly put our students first. We really do what is best for our students and it is clear MIPS has our students' best interests at heart. I am excited to feel supported in that endeavor. I know I am supported, valued, and heard by my team and the MIPS staff.
We have the absolute best students at MIPS. I truly enjoy each and every one of my classes, and love sharing in the joy of music making with them. My students are the highlight of my day, and I am beyond thankful to them and their families for the positivity and commitment they bring to the music program."
Leeann Rhotehamel
K-5 ASE Coordinator
LeeAnn Rhotehamel has worked in education for six years. In the past, she worked as a Reading Interventionist, where she worked with students in small groups to increase foundational reading skills, fluency, and comprehension. LeeAnn also worked as a Behavioral Interventionist. During this time, she taught Social and Emotional learning skills to students and helped them navigate frustrations and handle problems appropriately.
On the weekends, you will likely find LeeAnn cheering on her son and his hockey team at the rink, going on coffee dates with her daughter, playing cards with her husband and friends, or out golfing with her husband (when the weather permits). Her family enjoys traveling around Michigan and to the West Coast to visit family. LeeAnns family also consists of two peculiar cats, Henry and Dash, and a sweet dog, Ryder.
Why LeeAnn chose MIPS:
"I chose Michigan International Prep School because I appreciate their perspective on giving families a different experience for their educational needs. MIPS is not your conventional learning path. They look at each child's individual needs as a whole child, not just their academics. MIPS is a unique experience for families. MIPS has esteemed themselves in cultivating excitement, positivity, and a passion for learning. They accomplish this through building the foundation for
their families by focusing on relationships. I am a lucky person to be a part of this exciting culture. At MIPS I get the opportunity to work with the students and their families. I look forward to getting to know the families that allow us to put their child first."
Christina Stafford
Kindergarten Teacher
Christina is the Kindergarten teacher here at Michigan International Prep School. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Ferris State University. She has over 10 years of experience in various classroom settings, and has taught kindergarten, 1st grade, 3rd grade, and 4th grade. She enjoys working with children of all ages and strives to make learning fun!
Christina lives in South Lyon with her husband and three children. She also has a shepadoodle, Toby, and a pet snake. She loves spending time with her family and traveling. Some of her favorite places she has traveled to include: Hawaii, Germany, France, Nigeria, and various places in Michigan. Christina also enjoys reading, swimming, going to concerts, and watching movies.
Why Christina chose MIPS:
“I chose MIPS because it allows me to work with students from all over Michigan. I embrace the uniqueness brought by each student. I strive to show them that they are important and accepted just the way they are. The best part of each day is listening to the students share stories or tell jokes. I also appreciate the flexibility that MIPS offers to the students and their families. MIPS also provides a wonderful family atmosphere for the staff, which allows us to devote more time to our students.”
Wendy Tiggart
Kindergarten Mentor
Wendy is the Kindergarten Mentor here at MIPS. She graduated from Spring Arbor University with a degree in Sociology. Her career has led her down several different paths, and prior to coming to MIPS she spent 7 years as a Paraprofessional working with small reading intervention groups at a local elementary school. It was there that her passion for seeing students succeed, grow, and gain confidence in their abilities was born.
Wendy and her husband Tony enjoy attending their 3 school aged children's various sports activities and hobbies. She enjoys thrift shopping with their college aged daughter, and spending time on Google Duo calls with their son who is in the Navy.
Why Wendy chose MIPS:
"I chose to be a part of the MIPS team because of their desire to put kids and families first. They also strive to see each child as an individual, and meet each student's unique needs and goals for educational growth and for personal growth. The MIPS team welcomes you into the family whether you are a student or an employee. I am happy to be part of the family!"
Alyssa Wesche
Special Education Teacher
Alyssa is an elementary Special Education teacher at Michigan International Prep School. Alyssa came to MIPS with two years of experience teaching in 4th grade, and three years as Resource Room teacher. She studied at Michigan State University and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Special Education. She loves to be able to individualize and differentiate instruction to best fit what a student needs, as well as connecting instruction between grade level and the Special Education learning.
She lives with her husband, Kyle, and German Shepherd dog, Dutton. Whenever she can, she is outside with them. They love to go hiking, spending time in their yard, or being by the water. She is a reader and enjoys practicing her cooking skills by trying different recipes. She also loves to be active, whether that’s cycling, yoga, kickboxing, or barre classes.
Why Alyssa chose MIPS:
"MIPS’ philosophy that learning is not a “one size fits all” is what brought Alyssa to MIPS. MIPS provides students opportunities to grow and develop personally and academically within a framework that best suits the child. MIPS also supports teachers to be able to adjust instruction and the environment to better help a student’s learning and growth. Because she is passionate about differentiating based on what is best for the student, MIPS’ philosophy drew her in as an environment she wanted to be a part of in order to make the biggest difference within education."
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