Meet Kasey Koehler, our new Kindergarten Teacher at Oskaloosa Schools! 🎉
With 15 years of teaching experience—10 in 1st grade and 5 in kindergarten—Kasey brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for early childhood education.
"Oskaloosa is my hometown, where my siblings and I grew up, and I am now raising my three children here," said Kasey. "I couldn’t be more pleased and excited to join the Osky team."
Kasey is committed to creating a nurturing and meaningful learning environment for her students. She’s proud to be back in Oskaloosa, where her three children are also starting school—her oldest as a freshman, her daughter in 6th grade, and her youngest in 4th grade.
Join us in welcoming Kasey back to Osky! 🌟
We all get sick sometimes. If your student is feeling under the weather, we encourage them to stay home. 🤒
However, we urge students to be in class, ready to learn, when they are feeling well. Our parents and families are important partners in making sure students maintain consistent attendance, all year long! 💫
Welcome, Hannah Schauer! 🎉
Hannah joins us as a new 4th grade teacher, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep passion for education that perfectly aligns with our vision culture. She holds bachelor’s degrees in Elementary Education and Christian Education from Concordia University-Chicago. Before joining us, Hannah student taught 3rd grade at St. Peter Lutheran School and served as Director of Christian Education at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Illinois.
"I am so excited to join the Osky team because I love the vision culture! The more I learn about Osky schools, the more I see how well my personal beliefs and values align with those held here," shared Hannah. "I can’t wait to live out our purpose to love, empower, and inspire people this school year and beyond."
Hannah is #ALLIN on Oskaloosa Schools, eager to create a loving, team-oriented classroom environment and serve alongside a passionate team of educators.
Hannah and her husband, Malachi, moved to Oskaloosa last August with their 10-month-old son, Samuel, for Malachi’s role at Cargill.
Join us in welcoming Hannah! 😊
As we reflect on the events of September 11, 2001, we also remember the resilience and bravery shown on that day. Let us honor those who were lost and those who gave everything to save others. 🇺🇸
🏄♂️ Get ready to Surf Our Way to Victory with Homecoming 2024 gear! Show up in style and ride the wave of school spirit all week long. Orders are due Wednesday, September 18.
🔗 Shop now: www.ohshomecoming2024.itemorder.com
Hey, Osky families! Quick reminder: There will be a 60-minute early dismissal for all students on Wednesday, September 11. ⏰
We’re shining a spotlight on Angela Vande Wall, our new 8th Grade Reading Teacher! 💫
Angela joins us with eight years of teaching experience in the Cedar Rapids Community School District, where she most recently served as a Title I teacher. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a Reading Endorsement from Mount Mercy University and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Literacy from Morningside University.
"I'm excited to be part of a smaller, more supportive community for both myself and my son, who will be starting kindergarten," said Angela. "I’m joining the Osky team to make an impact in the lives of young people and to be part of a united team of educators and leaders."
Coming home to Oskaloosa, Angela is #ALLIN, feeling an immediate sense of community during the interview process. She’s eager to contribute by leading with love and knowledge.
Her goal is to build strong relationships with her students and set shared goals for a successful, enjoyable school year.
Join us in giving Angela a warm welcome home! 🎉
REMINDER: Picture Day at Oskaloosa Middle School is Thursday, September 12! 📸
🌟 New Staff Spotlight: Jessica Hemann 🌟
Meet Jessica, our new 6th-8th Grade Choir and Music Teacher! Jessica brings extensive experience, holding a Master of Music Education from the University of Northern Iowa and a Bachelor of Arts from Luther College. Certified to teach K-12 Vocal Music, she’s passionate about using music to build strong communities.
"I am so excited to be onboarding with Osky Schools, and I can’t wait to get to know my students!” said Jessica. “I appreciate new opportunities, and I know that there are always ways to continue to learn and grow.”
Jessica believes in Osky’s vision and sees music as a powerful way to unite people. Her goal is to connect with students and foster a sense of community through music.
Jessica lives in Albia with her husband and two children, Parker and Sophia, who are both active in school activities. She loves supporting her family in all they do.
Welcome to Oskaloosa, Jessica! 🎉
Meet Meghan Moorman, another new Kindergarten Teacher joining our team! ✨
A proud University of Iowa graduate, Meghan earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a Reading (K-8) endorsement. After gaining valuable experience as a substitute teacher in Iowa City, including a long-term role in 2nd grade, Meghan has returned to Oskaloosa to give back to the community that shaped her.
"I’m excited to join the Osky team for a variety of reasons. I’m eager to give back to the community that gave me so much growing up," said Meghan. "I’m ready to learn and collaborate with some of the best kindergarten teachers. I can already tell that the Osky team is something I’m going to be extremely proud to be a part of."
This year, Meghan's top goal is to get to know the people, systems, and students of Oskaloosa. She’s thrilled to learn from the best!
Join us in welcoming Meghan to the Osky family! 🎉
Say “good-bye” to printed fliers and “hello” to Oskaloosa’s Virtual Backpack! 🎒
The web page keeps you up-to-date about local events the whole family will enjoy. Simply visit www.oskyschools.org, then select OCSD Backpack under the Parent tab.
Organizations can submit their event flyers at https://tinyurl.com/24mztee9.
Welcome, Abby Gruver, to the Osky team! 🎉
Abby is our new Kindergarten Teacher, holding a Bachelor of Liberal Arts in Elementary Education from Central College, with endorsements in K-6 Reading and Coaching.
"I am beyond excited to join the Osky team,” said Abby. “From student teaching here, I saw firsthand how the staff collaborates and always puts students first, which is a big reason I wanted to work here. I can’t wait to work alongside all of the amazing teachers and staff!"
Abby is #ALLIN to make a difference in her students’ lives and support her colleagues. Her top goal is to learn from fellow teachers and provide the best learning experience for her students.
Welcome to the Osky family, Abby! 🙌
Meet Chanell Gay, our new 6th Grade ELA and Social Studies Teacher! 💫
Chanell, along with her husband and two children, recently moved to Knoxville. With nearly 20 years of experience teaching 6th grade, she’s ready to bring her expertise and team spirit to Osky Schools.
Chanell is #ALLIN, dedicated to continuous improvement and sharing her knowledge with colleagues. "I am excited about the positive interactions and collaboration among the staff and students at OMS," shared Chanell. "My goal is to be flexible and intentional in everything I do."
Welcome to Osky, Chanell! 🎉
REMINDER: Wednesday, September 4, is an early dismissal day. Oskaloosa Schools will dismiss students 60 minutes early. ⏰
Picture Day is September 5 for Oskaloosa High School students! 📸
Order school photos by visiting https://www.oskyschools.org/o/ohs/events?id=27208643.
Happy Labor Day to our Osky students, staff, families, and community members! 🇺🇸
Welcome Alyssa Cline to Oskaloosa Schools! 🌟
Alyssa is our new Preschool Teacher, bringing a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and an Endorsement in Birth - Grade 3 Inclusive Settings from the University of Northern Iowa.
Alyssa is #ALLIN on our vision culture, which she finds truly special. Her top priority is building strong relationships with her students and their families to enhance her teaching.
“I am thrilled to be working with the preschool team here at Osky!" said Alyssa. "I am really looking forward to working with my colleagues and, most importantly, meeting my students for the first time and giving them their first experience of what school is like."
Living in Leighton with her fiancé, who runs a welding and fabrication business in Pella, Alyssa also helps manage the business as a secretary in her free time.
We’re thrilled to have Alyssa on board! 🎉
Meet Kayla Rohr, our new 6th Grade Math and Science Teacher! ✨
A 2023 graduate of William Penn University, Kayla completed her student teaching at OES and is excited to begin her teaching career at Osky.
“I am most excited to be working at a school that is #ALLIN for students and staff," shared Kayla. "My goal is to love, empower, and inspire others during my first year as a teacher at Oskaloosa."
Oskaloosa is home for Kayla and her daughter, who will start kindergarten this year. They couldn't imagine being anywhere else. Welcome to the team, Kayla! 🎉
🌟 New Staff Spotlight: Molly Pettyjohn 🌟
We're thrilled to welcome Molly as a 4th Grade Teacher at Oskaloosa Schools! A proud OHS graduate, Molly holds a degree in Elementary Education from William Penn University, with endorsements in Reading and Special Education.
Molly is eager to connect with her students and foster their growth. She is committed to being #ALLIN at Osky because our strong vision culture ensures both she and her students will be supported. She believes this will help her become the best educator she can be.
"My top goal is to ensure my students feel loved and supported while achieving their personal goals," said Molly.
Welcome to the Osky family, Molly! 🎉
Preschool starts on Tuesday, September 3. We cannot wait to welcome our newest scholars! 🎓
