Meet Our People - Teachers - Michigan International Prep School

Meet our

Mentors & Teachers

Logan Dean

Lead Mentor

810.620.1826
dean@miprepschool.org

Ashley Murphy

Math Teacher/Mentor

248.935.1168
murphy@miprepschool.org

Meggan Evans

Mentor

989.492.0452
evans@miprepschool.org

Angela Lanzi

Interventionist

810.337.8405
lanzi@miprepschool.org

Brenda VanEck

Middle School Teacher/Mentor

567.280.0388
vaneck@miprepschool.org

Lauren Jimerson

Mentor

734.799.6677
jimerson@miprepschool.org

Emily Sauer

Elementary Teacher/Mentor

248.930.8616
sauer@miprepschool.org

Mallory Hoppe

Elementary Teacher/Mentor

248.875.4735
mhoppe@miprepschool.org

Elizabeth Adams

Mentor/Student Data Specialist

248.657.4206
adams@miprepschool.org

Sonya Dudley

Health & Physical Ed Teacher

989.272.8121
dudley@miprepschool.org

Chloe Bennett

Mentor

248.923.5715
bennett@miprepschool.org

Cara Livingston

Mentor

810.269.2661
livingston@miprepschool.org

Douglas Butler

Mentor/Athletic Director

313.904.6752
butler@miprepschool.org

Nicole Oliver

Elementary Teacher/Mentor

586.634.9058
oliver@miprepschool.org

Becky Sharkey

Social Studies Teacher/Mentor

810.614.9613
sharkey@miprepschool.org

Kiwanna Young

Mentor

313.409.8166
young@miprepschool.org

Candace Hamilton

Mentor

586.764.6401
hamilton@miprepschool.org

Eric VanHouten

Mentor

616-414-1923
vanhouten@miprepschool.org

Genna Peterson

Mentor

248.702.5131
peterson@miprepschool.org

Carianne Gray

English & Language Arts Teacher/Mentor

734.386.0258
gray@miprepschool.org

Molon Rahman

Mentor/English Teacher

‪248.648.1538
rahman@miprepschool.org

James Pack

Mentor

734.363.8631
pack@miprepschool.org

Alisha Jaynes

Special Education Teacher

734.277.7382
jaynes@miprepschool.org

Amanda Murray

Mentor/Speech & Communications Teacher

(989) 941-6456 murray@miprepschool.org

Allison Anargyros

Mentor

anargyros@miprepschool.org

Clayton McDowell

Mentor

616.799.7885
mcdowell@miprepschool.org

Daisy Barajas

Mentor

barajas@miprepschool.org

Laura Ness

Elementary Teacher/Mentor

810.588.3122
ness@miprepschool.org

David Prindle

6-12 Science Teacher

616.730.1655
prindle@miprepschool.org

Zach Herman

Spanish Teacher

248.274.6214
herman@miprepschool.org

Matt Theisen

Contracted Staff

Special Education Teacher

734.560.5923
theisen@miprepschool.org

Hannah Klebba

Middle School English & Language Arts Mentor Teacher

810.356.7475
klebba@miprepschool.org

Katlyn Beckett

Contracted Staff

Speech Pathologist

beckett@miprepschool.org

Administrative Offices

Address
48 South St.
Ortonville, MI 48462

Phone
248-289-5521

Fax
248-928-0471

Email
registrar@miprepschool.org

Mission Statement

To create an individualized educational pathway that incites 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

School is always in session at MIPS! We will continue to work in our courses as usual. However, for safety reasons, all drop-in Learning Labs are temporarily closed as we monitor the COVID-19 situation.

Ⓒ 2020 Michigan International Prep School - All rights reserved | *NCAA is a registered trademark of the National Collegiate Athletic Association.

Emily Sauer

Elementary Teacher/Mentor

Mrs. Sauer is an elementary mentor-teacher at Michigan International Prep Schools. She has had extensive experience in the classroom, having been in the education field for several years. She loves being around children and is passionate about their growth. Mrs. Sauer earned her bachelor’s degree from Madonna University in American Sign Language/ Deaf Community Studies. Mrs. Sauer’s passion for this language stemmed from her older sister who is Deaf and a true inspiration to her. Mrs. Sauer received her master’s degree from Oakland University in teaching elementary education with an emphasis in Language Arts. She is currently working on her second master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Central Michigan University. One of Emily’s favorite hobbies is traveling and exploring the world as much as she can with her husband. She loves to read and spend time with family and friends.

Mrs. Sauer earned her bachelor’s degree from Madonna University in American Sign Language/ Deaf community Studies. Mrs. Sauer’s passion for this language stemmed from her older sister who is deaf and a true inspiration to her. Mrs. Sauer received her master’s degree from Oakland University in teaching elementary education with an emphasis in Language Arts. She is currently working on a counseling endorsement from Grand Valley State University.

One of Emily’s favorite hobbies is traveling and exploring the world as much as she can with her husband. She loves to read and spend time with my family and friends.

Why Emily chose MIPS:

“I chose the career path of teaching to enjoy those “ah-ha” moments, be the positive influence in students’ lives, and encourage them that they are capable of anything.

I wanted to be a part of the MIPS family because those three reasons are what we are all about. MIPS embraces uniqueness and we tailor our curriculum to meet the needs of all our students and because of this, they are successful.

We listen, adapt, and produce our caourses for the betterment of our students and are always in communication with our MIPS families. I am so excited to be a part of the MIPS team as I am eager to help fuel our students’ passion for learning and watch them grow and reach their full academic potential! MIPS is not just an online school…it’s a virtual experience.”

Alisha Jaynes

Special Education Teacher

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!"

Amanda Murray

Mentor

Mrs. Murray brings 18 years of teaching experience to MIPS, having taught a variety of elective courses in Florida and Texas. As an educator, she has a track record of building award-winning arts programs, but her passion is connecting with students. Based on her experience teaching students with various social-emotional and physical needs, she loves meeting students in their need and helping them grow. She is a natural at building relationships and helping students find their passions.

Mrs. Murray obtained a BA in Acting and Directing from Texas Tech University, with a minor in English and an MA from the University of Houston in Theatre Education. During her schooling, she studied abroad at the Richmond International University in London, and has completed summer course work at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (London), The Actor’s Studio (Chicago) and the SITI Company of New York City. She is in the process of completing a degree in School Counseling and has interest in the field of social services.

Mrs. Murray resides in the Great Lakes Bay Region with her husband, two boys and their goldendoodle. In her free time, Mrs. Murray enjoys exploring Michigan, hammocking, bicycling and spending quality time with her family and friends.

Why Amanda chose MIPS:

"I chose to work at MIPS because of its relevant and individualized approach to education and for the opportunity to connect one-on-one with students. I love that MIPS puts an emphasis on the social-emotional growth of students. So often in education, a holistic approach is lacking, and MIPS provides the opportunity to dive deep with our students to understand their various needs.”

Allison Anargyros

Mentor

Allison is a Michigan native who earned her BS in Psychology from Grand Valley State University. During her time at Grand Valley, she taught technology classes as a parent engagement coordinator for Grand Rapids Public Schools. Allison earned her Masters degree in Higher Education at the University of Louisville, and served as Graduate Assistant in the U of L Athletic Department, gaining experience as an Academic Adviser for student athletes. She also served as Academic Adviser to the Indiana University Division I football team. Allison currently serves as academic success coach for Total Package Hockey/MIPS student athletes in the Detroit area.

Clayton McDowell

Mentor

Clayton is a mentor who is dedicated to helping students achieve success while enjoying the learning experience. His goal is to present a positive and exciting environment for education to help cultivate a place where goals and dreams can thrive. "Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world." -Harriet Tubman.

Clayton has a creative mindset with many different outlets, including game design, creative writing, storytelling, acting, and outdoor events. Clayton has three wonderful kids and a beautiful wife of 13 years. He loves the outdoors and the inspiration nature can provide. Clayton is a people person and loves interpersonal engagement on any level.

Why Clayton chose MIPS:

“When I heard about MIPS, I knew it was something I had to be a part of. To have the opportunity to help bring positivity and motivation to the lives of others was a dream come true. To be a part of uplifting the next generation to greater heights is an honor and a privilege for me. I spent a few good years as a mentor in a different role in the past, and since then it has always been my dream to pursue that further in my career and life. I feel blessed to be able to do what I do.”

daisy barajas

Mentor

Daisy is a middle school mentor. She is currently attending Mott Community College to earn her Associate’s degree in Arts. Her goal is to transfer to Oakland University to earn a teaching degree. Daisy can’t wait to be a third grade teacher! She has several years of experience working with children of all ages. Her work experience started when she worked at a daycare center for 2 years. She also has experience working in a library. Daisy enjoyed recommending books for students to read for fun or books needed for school work. While working at a daycare center and library she discovered she has a passion working with kids. Daisy is also a member of the Lapeer Kiwanis Club and volunteers her time to raise money for the children of her community. She has a strong desire to see children succeed in life and follow their dreams.

In her spare time she enjoys hanging out with friends and family, reading, checking out different libraries, volunteering and shopping.

Why Daisy chose MIPS:

“I wanted a change in career because I wanted to learn something new and be challenged. Being a mentor is the perfect position for me. I’ll be able to work more closely with students and gain experience for when I become a teacher. I will make sure my students succeed in their classes and personal life. I want them to be able to follow their dreams. Thank you MIPS for this opportunity."

Laura Ness

Elementary Teacher/Mentor

Laura earned her degree in Elementary Education from Northern Michigan University, majoring in Mathematics and minoring in Speech Communications. She then earned her Professional Teaching Certificate by working toward a Language Arts degree. Laura has a hard time deciding whether she loves math or reading best! She enjoys sharing her passion for both - whether it is forming book clubs (with kids in her neighborhood, or inmates at the Livingston County Jail where she held the position of Jail Educator), or encouraging students to say, “Math Rocks!!” and helping them believe that it is true. Laura has taught preschool, 3rd grade, 6th grade, and Adult Ed. She has owned her own in-home daycare and has cared for children her whole life. She enjoys being creative with her teaching and is always adding something new to keep things interesting! Laura is happy to be a K-5 Mentor Teacher at MIPS!

Laura, originally a “Yooper”, is enjoying living “downstate." She, her husband Marty, and their 3 kids moved to Howell in 2016 and live next door to her brother and his family. Laura enjoys spending time with family, playing cards, going for long drives, and boating.

Why Laura chose MIPS:

"I feel very fortunate to be able to teach at a very unique school that has quickly become a leader in virtual learning. The attention afforded to each student, the thought that goes into creating the best academic path for each student, and the care the MIPS staff shows toward each student’s well-being and happiness are the reasons why being a Mentor Teacher at MIPS provides a meaningful sense of purpose.

Teaching at MIPS is exciting because of the new and unique approach to educating children - where brick and mortar meets virtual learning, meets homeschooling, meets advising, meets focusing on the whole child, meets creating self-driven children. Michigan International Prep School’s mentoring approach to teaching is fascinating, and I believe it is what will change education. MIPS' focus is on the student...and the family. I like that."

David Prindle

6-12 Science Teacher

David looks forward to teaching various science courses this year at MIPS. His 34 years of experience include teaching a wide range of science and math classes in Texas, Alaska, and Michigan. He has been a Distance Learning Instructor and Educational Technology Trainer since the early 90’s. He has served on multiple building, district, and state level technology committees.

He is a continual learner and has enjoyed learning, presenting, training, and being on staff at multiple education conferences and programs. Among these, he has worked on the MDE Tech Integration Workgroup designing tech integrated lesson plans and is part of the 2011 MERIT (Making Education Relevant through Innovative Teaching) Cohort and was on the 2013 MERIT staff at the Krause Center for Innovation at Foothills College. He was a co-founder of the Michigan Flip conference and a consultant for the Illinois Flip and Blended Learning Conference.

David is currently part of the Michigan Department of Education GoOpen Strategy Team. Having served the statewide Michigan Association of Computer Users in Learning as a Board Member, President, Secretary and Past President, he is currently a Technology for All Learning Area Delegate. He has been a Microsoft Innovative Expert, Surface Expert and currently is a ScreenBeam Expert. He is versed in both the Mac and PC environments and mobile computing.

David has a B.S. from Olivet Nazarene University in Geology and Chemistry and a M.S. from Nova Southeastern University in Educational Technology.

My wife Cheryl and I have four children and three grandchildren, the last of which just graduated from college this year. My oldest daughter and her husband say they plan to drop off the three grandchildren for a very extended stay as soon as COVID is over.

Why David chose MIPS:

"I chose MIPS because I see an opportunity to serve students across the state of Michigan regardless of geographical location or economic status.  Teaching for me has always been about educating students as individuals and MIPS allows me to educate students at a pace and time to fit their life. I am excited to join MIPS to help students reach their full potential."

Zach Herman

Spanish Teacher

Zack Herman is a proud graduate of Oakland University and is thrilled to be teaching Spanish at MIPS. He’s passionate about Spanish and Latin American culture, having traveled to both Spain and Mexico. In Zach’s free time, you can find him writing the book he’s been working on for years, enjoying live music, or trying food from around the world (especially Chinese Dim Sum).

Why Kiwanna chose MIPS:

“As a classroom teacher in a traditional school, many times I am forced to pace lessons and move on even if a student does not comprehend the material. I believe in the MIPS way because students are able to work at their own pace. The curriculum is customizable so I am able to work with students who may need more practice, or alternatively, if a student masters a concept quicker than expected, I can move them on. The flexibility and individualization of MIPS is where we are headed in the future of education. That is why I chose MIPS!”

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.”

hannah klebba

Middle School English & Language Arts Mentor Teacher

Ms. Klebba is a Middle School ELA teacher here at MIPS. She graduated from Oakland University with her Bachelor’s in Education and Language Arts in early 2018. Ms. Klebba is always trying to find new and innovative ways to keep her students engaged and make learning as fun and interesting as possible. She believes strongly in meeting each student where they are and that teaching with their interests at the forefront will lead to greater strides in student learning. Ms. Klebba knows that every student may not have the same love for reading and writing as she does, but she aspires to make everyone love it a little bit more.

When Ms. Klebba is not teaching or grading, she loves to travel and listen to her favorite music. She is a firm believer that seeing new things and experiencing life outside of your comfort zone leads to the greatest learning there is. Reading and writing are also passions of Ms. Klebba. She loves reading mystery novels and writing creatively and about her travel/life experiences.

Why Hanna chose MIPS:

"I just started at MIPS in the 2020/2021 school year and I am excited to begin this journey! MIPS educators have a passion for truly educating students and it shows each day. MIPS is structured in such a way that teachers can differentiate learning pathways for individual students. This allows students to shine in ways traditional schools cannot.

I love that here at MIPS, teachers can create impactful relationships with their students through 1:1 learning. This learning format allows teachers to get to know their students well and to create educational experiences that are meaningful to each student. One of the primary things to remember in education is that each student and their families have previous experiences that differ. My job as an educator is to meet the students and their families where they are and to build trusting relationships that will carry them through their educational career. MIPS makes my job easy by offering a platform for teaching and learning that allows just that."

Katlyn Beckett

Speech Pathologist

Why Katlyn chose MIPS: