Meet Our People - Teachers & Mentors - Michigan International Prep School

Now enrolling for the 2022-2023 school year.

Our Middle & High School Mentors and Teachers

Daisy Barajas

Mentor

810.412.8759
barajas@miprepschool.org

Jared Bayley

Mentor

810.354.7691
bayley@miprepschool.org

Katlyn Beckett

Speech Pathologist

Contracted Staff

beckett@miprepschool.org

Allison Anargyros

Mentor

anargyros@miprepschool.org

Douglas Butler

Lead Relationship Coordinator

313.904.6752
butler@miprepschool.org

Kimberly Bugaski

Mentor

248.282.4935
bugaski@miprepschool.org

Sydney Carlson

Speech Language Pathologist

Contracted Staff

810.331.0754
carlson@miprepschool.org

Jessica Britton

Mentor

810.373.2698
britton@miprespchool.org

Alex Conklin

ELL Specialist

810.373.2840
conklin@miprepschool.org

Shannon Clark

Speech Pathologist

Contracted Staff

616.828.3879
clark@miprepschool.org

Cassidy Chaisson

Voice Instructor

Contracted Staff

fleet@miprepschool.org

Stephanie Cogo

Lead Mentor

810.373.2446
cogo@miprepschool.org

Zach Conklin

Mentor

‪947.214.2497‬
zconklin@miprepschool.org

Indigo Dudley

Mentor

810.299.2154
idudley@miprepschool.org

Sonya Dudley

Pathways Coordinator/ Mentor Teacher/BEBS

989.272.8121
dudley@miprepschool.org

Lee Dyament

Guitar Instructor

Contracted Staff

dyament@miprepschool.org

Kerry Fleet

Art Teacher

Contracted Staff

fleet@miprepschool.org

Candace Hamilton

Lead Mentor

586.764.6401
hamilton@miprepschool.org

Nicole Haynes

HS Math Teacher/Curriculum Development

810.214.3520
haynes@miprepschool.org

Alisha Jaynes

Special Education Teacher

734.277.7382
jaynes@miprepschool.org

Hannah Klebba

Middle School English & Language Arts Teacher

810.356.7475
klebba@miprepschool.org

Jennifer Kunec

Mentor

810.771.5792
kunec@miprepschool.org

Gregory Lawson

Mentor

810.510.9261
lawson@miprepschool.org

Teneisha McDonald

Mentor

810.354.5076‬
mcdonald@miprepschool.org

Clayton McDowell

Mentor

616.799.7885
mcdowell@miprepschool.org

Madison Meeron

Theatre Teacher

Contracted Staff

810.331.0832
meeron@miprepschool.org

Gabriela Micheloni

Spanish Teacher

micheloni@miprepschool.org

Ashley Murphy

Math Teacher

810.331.0701
murphy@miprepschool.org

Amanda Murray

Director of Student Support

989.941.6456 murray@miprepschool.org

Megan Nuss

Music / Piano Teacher

Contracted Staff

nuss@miprepschool.org

James Pack

Mentor

734.363.8631
pack@miprepschool.org

Genna Peterson

Mentor

248.702.5131
peterson@miprepschool.org

Emily Phipps

MS Social Studies Teacher

810.373.2840
phipps@miprepschool.org

David Pilgreen

HS Social Studies Teacher

810.331.0782
pilgreen@miprepschool.org

Phil Quinlan

Mentor

810.207.5518‬
quinlan@miprepschool.org

Sharona Rosnik

Mentor

810.640.5913
rosnik@miprespchool.org

Becky Sharkey

Director of Adult Learning / Director of Academic Counseling Services

810.614.9613
sharkey@miprepschool.org

Matt Theisen

Special Education Teacher

734.560.5923
theisen@miprepschool.org

Brenda VanEck

Middle School Teacher

567.280.0388
vaneck@miprepschool.org

Eric VanHouten

Mentor / Marketing Specialist

616.414.1923
vanhouten@miprepschool.org

Adam VanWert

Mentor

‪947.214.2497‬
avanwert@miprepschool.org

Jolie VanWert

Mentor

810.354.5713
vanwert@miprepschool.org

Kiwanna Young

Mentor

313.409.8166
young@miprepschool.org

Administrative Offices

Address
7034 E Court St
Davison, MI 48423

Phone
248-289-5521

Fax
248-928-0471

Email
registrar@miprepschool.org

Mission Statement

To create an individualized educational pathway that inspires a passion for learning, cultivates a global awareness, and prepares students for a smooth transition into the workforce.

Vision Statement

MIPS serves students first!

Site Links

Keep in touch!

COVID-19 Notice

Some of our Learning Labs have reopened with safety precautions in place. Please check with your local Learning Lab for specific hours and safety procedures.

Ⓒ 2022 Michigan International Prep School - All rights reserved | *NCAA is a registered trademark of the National Collegiate Athletic Association.

Genna Peterson

Mentor

Genna recently graduated from Central Michigan University with a degree in Psychology. Ms. Peterson began her college career at CMU with the intention of earning a medical degree, but changed course to Psychology, discovering a passion for helping people. Genna worked 3 years in a Special Education classroom, which is where she became interested in the education field. When Ms. Peterson felt she was no longer making a difference through her work, she applied at MIPS because she felt it had great potential for working with and helping students more directly.

Genna loves to cook and bake, read books, and play with her 2 kitties, Leo and Enzo.

Why Genna chose MIPS:

"I love working with students and feeling like I can make a difference in their lives. Education can be difficult when you feel like you are doing it all alone, I wanted to be there for students and let them know that they have a whole team of people that are here cheering them on!"

Emily phipps

MS Social Studies Teacher

Emily graduated from Oakland University with a degree in History Education in 2019. She has been a middle school social studies educator since July of 2019, where she taught in both a traditional school setting and via a virtual platform. Technology has always been an integral part of her life and she loves innovating new ways to connect with and engage her scholars with this powerful tool. She loves learning about resources to best suit her scholars and reach them on their level. Individuality and creativity are her language and she strives to educate and assist her scholars with their unique needs while utilizing high leverage teaching practices.

In her free time, Emily loves to play video games, read books, draw, sew, and play disc golf. She also loves to travel with her husband and their fur babies. Traveling helps her learn about other people and cultures. These experiences are shared in her classroom to supplement learning about history and geography. As a lifelong learner, she hopes to inspire her scholars to continue to learn throughout their own lives."

Why Emily chose MIPS:

"I realize that education is not 'one size fits all' and when I met with the teachers and admin at MIPS, it was apparent that they are striving to make education individualized to the learner. Students are truly the main focus of this school. Education is about the students of today and their future goals; there is a great deal at stake. MIPS understands and prioritizes the needs of students, which is the way education should be."

David Pilgreen

HS Social Studies Teacher

Mr. Pilgreen is a high school Social Studies teacher at MIPS. He has worked in both virtual and in-person classrooms, and written curriculum for his former district. He started his career at his alma mater, Garner High School in North Carolina, and has spent the last 5 years teaching at a charter school in Austin, Texas.

His passion for history is evident in his teaching style (with a focus on primary source analysis and project-based learning), but the best days in his class are when he can engage his greatest strength: storytelling.

David earned his B.S. in History Education from East Carolina University, and is a diehard Pirates football fan. He loves exploring the country in his 25 foot travel trailer with his wife, Kendall, and rescue goldendoodle, Mosey. He also enjoys watching and playing sports of any kind, smoking brisket in his Weber Smokey Mountain, and frequenting any historical monuments, museums and National Parks.

Why David chose MIPS:

"I chose MIPS because we are in a time where education can take shape in many forms and in many locations. I am enthused by the prospect of learning from co-workers and students about what works best for the digital classroom and how to bring the things I did well in traditional classroom to a virtual platform. School does not have to look like a Monday-through-Friday work week. It is exciting to be a part of an organization that realizes that school should be personalized to the wants and needs of each student, and does so while promising to provide a world-class education along the way. "

Phil Quinlan

Mentor

Phil Quinlan is passionately in pursuit of learning about new ‘things.’ He is intentional about visiting unique places, meeting humble people, and reading about innovative and courageous thinkers. He views the world through a lens that asks, “What can I learn from this experience?” as he embraces Steven Covey's "sharpening of the saw" mentality toward constant and never-ending improvement in all phases of his life. The art of servant leadership intrigues Phil; he studies it, observes it, applies it, and strives to apply it in his role as mentor. Phil has served in numerous leadership positions within his profession and throughout his community. He continually seeks to develop leadership skills in himself and shares those insights with those around him.

As Phil is embarking upon his 34th year in education, he has always treated each of those years as though it is his first. He seeks humility by truly desiring to understand others (Empathy) before looking to be understood (Be a Voice) throughout his community. Phil has taught, coached and mentored in all levels of education; elementary, middle and high school. Three years ago, Phil led the development and building of a virtual learning program at his former district. This experience gave him invaluable experience and insight into the challenges and benefits of a virtual learning environment. His sports coaching experience includes coaching varsity baseball, basketball (boys & girls), and soccer. He led his varsity boys basketball team to state finals championships. He has a plethora of experiences working with youth of all ages.

Why Phil chose MIPS:

“Right away I was drawn to the leadership team and the staff of MIPS...it seemed to be an ‘outlier’ culture in which the staff truly serves their learning community. MIPS sets themselves apart from mainstream education for the sake of their students. It is evident that the vision and mission of MIPS is to provide a high-quality learning experience. More importantly, it SERVES families in a way that stands above any institution I’ve encountered. MIPS' individualized approach to learning taps into all components of the human condition; it combines the arts with traditional pathways of learning in a way that makes me inspired to be part of the team. MIPS students have the opportunity to thrive and grow personally and academically within an environment that fosters support beyond a normal school setting.

Sharona rosnik

Mentor

Sharona is currently attending Bellevue University to earn her Bachelor's degree in business. She received her Associate's degree in general studies from Mott Community College. Her goal is to graduate from Bellevue with a better understanding of the business world. She has experience working with people of all ages due to her eight year career as a Library Assistant.

During her Library career, Sharona was able to discover her passion to help others through books and programming. She believes books are not only good for learning, they are also great for an escape. She ran the teen programming events and was able to connect with kids and teens on an artistic and social level. In her spare time, Sharona loves to be outdoors, read, hang out with her friends, her family, and her dogs.

Why Sharona chose MIPS:

"I chose MIPS because I have a passion to help. I believe when you help someone better themselves, you become a better person in the process. I have worked with kids and teens in group settings, but with MIPS I am looking forward to making personal connections through one-on-one relationships. To be part of a team that is supportive and welcoming is what I love and appreciate the most."

Becky Sharkey

Director of Adult Learning
Director of Academic Counseling Services
Social Studies Teacher

Mrs. Sharkey is a secondary Social Studies Teacher/Mentor at MIPS. She has wealth of experience in education, having served as a teacher in traditional and online learning environments, adult education, and district program coordination in Michigan and Minnesota. With an intense commitment to student success, she embraces creative and holistic best practices and is always ready and willing to go the extra mile to serve the needs of her students. Becky received her Bachelor’s degree in political science and history from Central Michigan University, her Master’s degree in Liberal Studies in American Culture from the University of Michigan and a Secondary Teaching Certification in grades 6-12 from the University of Minnesota.

Becky is currently working to complete her M.Ed. She lives in Fostoria with her husband and son on their working farm, sustainably raising grass-fed cattle, free-ranging chickens, flowers and vegetables. When not pulling weeds and calves, Mrs. Sharkey likes to spend time with family and friends, read, hike, refurbish old furniture, practice yoga, and travel.

Why Becky chose MIPS:

“I joined MIPS because of their commitment to an individualized educational approach that meets the needs of each and every MIPS student and family. I believe strongly that meaningful teaching and learning is not a “one-size-fits all” process. In order to prepare all learners for the promises and challenges of the twenty-first century, we need to employ holistic, creative, “out of the box” strategies. I searched for a school which embodied these beliefs and in MIPS I found it!”

Matt Theisen

Special Education Teacher

Mr. Theisen serves as a special education mentor at MIPS. Previously, he has taught for 14 years in brick and mortar schools. He spent the first ten years as a mathematics teacher for grades 6-12th and the last four years as a special education teacher. He holds a Masters Degree from Wayne State in Secondary Mathematics and a Masters Degree from the University of Michigan-Dearborn in Special Education.

Matt has a ten year old daughter, Ava. Together they enjoy living with many pets, including: Henry the rabbit, three parakeets, and axolotl salamander. Matt loves to plant flowers and follow local sports teams, especially the Pistons and Lions.

Why Matt chose MIPS:

“I chose to teach at Michigan International Prep School because it is an online school that offers diverse, flexible, and customized education solutions for all students. Additionally, MIPS allows students who have special needs to flourish and feel supported to do their very best.”

Brenda VanEck

Middle School Teacher Mentor

Brenda is a Middle School Mentor Teacher here at MIPS and is based out of the Howell Lab. In addition to mentoring and tutoring her own students, Brenda helps any student that comes into the lab. She goes above and beyond to make herself available to her students. Brenda is known as being a reliable, kind, and patient advocate for her students. Middle School math tutoring is her favorite way to help students.

Van Eck grew up in west Michigan but moved to the Howell area in 2005. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Calvin College in Grand Rapids with a focus in math and science. She’s taught in a brick and mortar schools and also homeschooled her own two children for eight years, which she enjoyed immensely.

In her free hours, Brenda enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, camping, reading, and organizing.

Why Brenda chose MIPS:

“After my own homeschooling years were finished, I came across MIPS and I loved the idea of being able to offer other students a personalized education like the one I’d given my own children. Every student at MIPS has the opportunity to have a very individualized education that they can tailor to work best for them.

I enjoy having one-on-one conversations with my students and getting to know what works best for them. When I am tutoring, I can approach a lesson one way for one student and a different way for another, based on what that particular student needs. Having a class of one is every teacher’s dream! I love to see students learn and to be a part of getting them to that “aha” moment.”

Eric Vanhouten

Mentor / Marketing Specialist

Eric is a mentor here at MIPS who wants to engage with and support students in ways that foster successful academic and personal growth. He loves working with students and seeing them do their best wherever they are!

Eric has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Writing from Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Michigan. Following his degree, he spent three years as a Youth Pastor in Grand Haven, Michigan—a beautiful town right on Lake Michigan. He is currently pursuing a Master’s degree online at Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri.

Eric and his wife, Mary, moved to the east side of Michigan in the fall of 2020, where he discovered MIPS and began as a mentor! Eric is also an avid reader and writer, a photographer and videographer, and would call himself a film buff. He loves going on adventures with his wife as well! He is primarily known as “the bald guy with the big beard.”

Why Eric chose MIPS:

“I am incredibly excited to be a part of what MIPS is doing for the education of so many students.The exceptional vision and goals for the academic and relational success of its students clearly put the students first. At MIPS there is an amazing opportunity to have one-on-one interactions and relationships between the students and their teachers/mentors. Additionally, the faculty and staff all share a deep passion for the wellbeing and success of the students. Here, staff and students alike are able to be authentic and personalize their learning environment in a way that truly helps us all grow.”

Adam vanwert

Mentor

Adam VanWert is a 6th-12th grade mentor. Adam has extensive knowledge in the customer service industry, technology, and counseling services. Adam loves learning about other people's passions and what drives them so he can help them achieve their goals and dreams. He and his wife, Jolie, have four children and all of them currently attend MIPS or will attend soon. Adam enjoys going to the movies, playing video games with his children, and photography.

Why Adam chose MIPS:

I chose MIPS because I love the passion and drive I see from the other mentors who want to pour into students. MIPS has set a standard of culture you don't see in many places, and that is a culture of integrity and drive. The staff at MIPS are driven to succeed and share that success with those around them. They really talk the talk and walk the walk when it comes to owning your sphere of influence."

Jolie Vanwert

Mentor

Jolie was born in Cheyenne, Wyoming and grew up traveling in the Air Force, where her father served. When he retired, she completed her school years in Bay City, MI. She married her high school sweetheart and has four children. She homeschooled them up until she found the MIPS program a few years ago. Jolie took advantage of the “down time” of COVID to go back to school and earn her Bachelors in Elementary Education at Western Governors University. She has taught dance classes, music classes, and was a paraprofessional for a short time.

In her free time Jolie carts her children around to their various activities, including competitive dance, Brazilian Jiu Jitzu, MMA, soccer, play practices, and swimming lessons. She is an avid reader and enjoys a research project or a good beach day. Jolie loves to sing, and enjoys planning parties for her family and friends.

Why Jolie chose MIPS:

"As a parent, I searched for an online program that had the best of every world for my own children. I wanted the personal touch that catered to my children’s interests and personalities, while still focusing on a high-level of academic rigor. Finding MIPS checked off all my boxes for my children. Connecting with mentors and teachers encouraged me to pursue higher education for myself. Now I am getting to be part of the other side of the coin as a mentor, and I am so excited to be able to enable others to become future world-changers through the MIPS program!"

Kiwanna Young

Mentor

Kiwanna is a middle and high school mentor who wants to help students every step of the way in accomplishing their educational goals and achieving the greatest academic success. As an enthusiast of history and politics, she is a few credits away from completing her degree in Political Science. Before entering the education field, Kiwanna worked in administration for local and state government, and campaigned for some local politicians. Those experiences helped to change her focus towards helping children, as she believes they are the core of the community she wishes to influence.

Kiwanna and her high school sweetheart recently purchased a “fixer upper” in Detroit, which they’ve worked tirelessly to renovate and make into a “home sweet home” for their son. Aside from volunteering in her community, she likes to watch DIY videos, draw, and attend family events.

Why Kiwanna chose MIPS:

"I struggled as a student during my childhood, and it was only through the encouragement and motivation of educators that I was able to achieve success. Joining MIPS is my opportunity to give back what has been given to me. After being welcomed into MIPS, I quickly learned that I joined a team that has no limit as to how far they’re willing to go in ensuring the success of a single student. It’s reminiscent of my own experience, and makes me grateful to be apart of such a dedicated team!"

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