Meet Our Staff

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School Staff
Our exceptional faculty, committed to creating a caring atmosphere, believes in Christian values, academic excellence and high expectations. The majority of our teachers have attained graduate degrees in education and are are certified by the State of Michigan. The Diocese of Lansing certifies religion teachers. We encourage and support our faculty to maintain their own academic excellence by continuing their education, assuring they obtain the most advanced knowledge in teaching disciplines. We are proud to say several of our staff are graduates of St. Francis School! This is indicated below by an asterisk (*) before the staff member’s name.

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Assistant Principal
Mr. Larry Hoskins: lhoskins@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2286
Education: BA Elementary Education, MA Educational Leadership, MA Educational Technology
I am grateful to be able to work with the amazing SFA school community. We moved from the east side of Michigan in 2022 and have found a home due to the great community at Saint Francis of Assisi School. I look forward to working with the faculty, staff, and families and I hope to bring my previous educational experiences as an educator and administrator to SFA.

Administrative Assistant
Mrs. Kelly Van Oirschot:  kvanoirschot@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2203
Education: Certificate of Computer Systems Technology
I have worked in a business office setting for over 20 years. Time has flown by as I have been at St. Francis for over 13 years now!  I really enjoy my position here and look forward to helping our families and students and anyone with questions about our School. It is a blessing to be a part of St. Francis.

Office Secretary
Mrs. LouAnn Morrill: lmorrill@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2200
Education: BA in Criminal Justice
I became a part of the St Francis School community when my daughter started kindergarten. I have enjoyed getting to know the kids as a lunch volunteer, PTG member, subbing in the school office and transitioning to a part time secretary. This tightknit community has allowed me to develop many close friendships that I know will last long after my daughter graduates from SFA.

Office Secretary
Mrs. Aarika Stovcsik: astovcsik@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2200
Education: BS in Nursing
Transitioning from my nursing career to a Mom of four and now being able to be a part of their school staff has been a wonderful blessing. Catholic education has always been an important part of my life and I am excited to be now sharing it with my children. We are blessed to be a part of this amazing community and I want to share my love for it by being a welcoming face to all who enter.

School Bookkeeper
Mrs. Jackie Pearson:  jpearson@stfrancisa2.org and 734-821-2113
Education: BBA – Accounting
I have been a parishioner at St. Francis for several years. I am excited for my daughter to start her journey here at St. Francis School.  As the school bookkeeper, I am able to help and work with families in a Faith based environment. I am blessed to be a part of such a wonderful community.

Extended School Program & Preschool Director
Mrs. Christina Busse:  cbusse@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2290
Education: BS Education
The greatest part of working at St. Francis of Assisi School is the relationships. Building mutually respectful relationships with children, partnerships with parents and friendships with co-workers make SFA the place I want to be every day. Formerly I was a director and preschool teacher at the Pfizer Family Center. I have children of my own and understand the challenges facing families today.

School Nurse
Mr. Robert Riehl: rriehl@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2207
Education: BS Nursing, RN
I am super happy to be here at St. Francis. I enjoy seeing and interacting with the kids every day. I am blessed that my own children are now coming to St. Francis School.

Kindergarten – KA
Mrs. Emily Walker:  ewalker@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2210
Education: BS Elementary Education and ESL Education
I am beyond grateful to be teaching kindergarten at St. Francis of Assisi among this amazing staff! As a former Catholic school graduate out of Kansas City, I am excited to be at a school that feels like home. Each day is a great day for learning and I look forward to watching the kindergarten scholars grow throughout the year.

KA Aide
*Mrs. Ashley Marentette: amarentette@stfrancisaa.org
Education: BA Elementary Education
I taught first grade in Chicago for 10 years before moving back to Ann Arbor to raise our family. I am a mom of 3 St Francis students and was a SFA graduate myself! It is a privilege to be back in this wonderful community as both a parent and a teacher. Being in the classroom brings me great joy and I can’t wait to witness all of the learning and growing. In my free time I enjoy traveling with my family, reading and doing Pilates. I am looking forward to a wonderful year in KA!

KA Aide
Mrs. Annie Wagner: awagner@stfrancisaa.org
Education: BA Developmental Psychology
This is my first year teaching at St. Francis of Assisi, and I cannot wait to get to know each one of your kindergarteners! I am originally from California and have lived in Ann Arbor since 2015 with my husband and our three children, who all attend St. Francis. Previously, I have worked as a nanny, I was a student advisor at the U of M school of Music, Theatre and Dance, and most recently a full time mom to my three little ones. I am excited to be a part of the St. Francis Community and looking forward to the new school year!

Kindergarten – KB
Ms. Stephanie Vuylsteke:  svuylsteke@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2213
Education: BA Elementary Education
I am overjoyed to be a Kindergarten teacher at St. Francis! As a product of K-12 Christian and Catholic schools, I truly value being able to incorporate religion into the school day. I especially love teaching Kindergarten, as it is an exciting new time for children to grow as people, as friends, and as students as they enter a beautiful and loving community. I look forward to all the blessings to come throughout the school year!

KB Aide
Mrs. Anne Denoyer: adenoyer@stfrancisaa.org
Education: BS Elementary Education – Area of Specialization- Psychology
I am a St. Francis parent and eager to return to the profession I love. I spent eight years teaching before focusing on nurturing and guiding my children as they grew. Now, I have returned to my passion for teaching and am back in the classroom. My combined experience as a teacher and parent provide me with a unique perspective and approach to education. In my free time I enjoy traveling and playing tennis with my family. I look forward to the challenges and opportunities ahead.

KB Aide
Mrs. Wilma Woodruff: wwoodruff@stfrancisaa.org
I am a current St. Francis parent and parishioner. I came to the United States in 2007 and have enjoyed all things Ann Arbor and teaching in the Ann Arbor area (i.e., Montessori school and prior years teaching at St. Francis preschool ). I enjoy working with young children and cannot wait to meet the students.

Grade 1A
Mrs. Rachel Johnson:  rjohnson@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2211
Education: BA Elementary Education: Early Childhood & Science, MA: Educational Media and Technology
I started teaching at St. Francis in 2010. I am so grateful to work at such a wonderful school. First grade is an exciting time, and I look forward to helping and watching my students learn and grow everyday.

Grade 1B
Mrs. Sara Fifelski:  sfifelski@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2212
Education: BA in Theology, MS in Elementary Education
I am grateful to be teaching in First Grade at St. Francis.  I have moved to Michigan from Cape Cod, Massachusetts where I taught Pre-School and Kindergarten for thirteen years.  I graduated from FUS with a BA degree in Theology and completed several graduate courses in Education.  Each day is a new opportunity to learn, love and enjoy the young lives I am entrusted with as they grow and progress on their own educational journey!

Grade 2A
Mrs. Audi Hahn: ahahn@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2221
Education: BS in Elementary Education and Special Education, MS in Reading
The community at St. Francis is so special and I am thrilled to be part of the teaching community. I attended Catholic schools for middle school, high school, and college. I have over 25 years of teaching experience in elementary grades K-4 and special education. Second grade is my favorite grade to teach! The second-grade classroom is a magical place where every day is filled with new discoveries and adventures. I enjoy making learning fun and engaging for students and building their confidence. When I am not teaching I enjoy spending time with my husband, 4 kids and our bernedoodle Olaf.

Grade 2B
Mrs. Michelle Corrunker:  mcorrunker@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2222
Education: BS Elementary Education, Reading Specialist Endorsement
I am truly blessed to have found my place here at St. Francis with this amazing staff.  It is a wonderful community where the kiddos and I can grow in faith together.  Second grade is very special as we prepare for our first Reconciliation and Holy First Communion. I am glad to be a part of this special time in their lives. 

Grade 3A
Ms. Maria Jakimcius: mjakimcius@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2231
Education: BS in Elementary Education
I could not have been more excited when I was asked to be a part of the St. Francis team. Working with such a supportive and friendly staff is a true joy and a blessing. I love the sense of community that is felt and demonstrated throughout the school, both among staff and among students. My heart is in 3rd grade, and I’m fortunate to be doing what I love in a such a special place. 

Grade 3B
*Ms. Carlye Malcolm:  cmalcolm@stfrancisaa.org  or 734-821-2232
Education: BA Education, Masters in Reading
I was elated when I first found out I was hired into the 3rd grade position because St. Francis is where I spent my childhood and I knew I would be walking back into a supportive, tight-knit community. Seasoned staff members reach out to help acclimate teachers who are new to the school and school families and faculty come together to create a caring, loving community that encourages the students in their learning. I have taught here for over 10 years now and I am so grateful to be in a position where I can pass on the spark of academic curiosity and spiritual growth that teachers at St. Francis first ignited in me.

Grade 4A
Ms. Mollie Raftery: mraftery@stfrancisaa.org or 734-821-2241
Education: BA in Elementary Education, Language Arts Endorsement
I am thrilled to have found my place at St. Francis, where I can combine my passion for education and faith. After attending Catholic school from kindergarten through 12th grade, I feel blessed to be back in this environment, now as a teacher. My goal is to create a welcoming and loving classroom where each student can flourish both academically and spiritually. I look forward to guiding my students through the school year and am grateful to be a part of this community!

Grade 4B
*Mrs. Maura Dalian:  mdalian@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2242
Education: BA Education, Art Education, English and MA Art Ed, Children’s Literature and Literature
What I enjoy about teaching at St. Francis School is working with the kids and their wonderfully supportive parents. They are the reason I show up everyday. God has blessed me with this fabulous opportunity for over 30 years. I am grateful and humbled by the privilege.

Grade 5A
Mrs. Patricia O’Sullivan:  posullivan@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2251
Education: BS Biology, MA Reading
My husband and my three children attended St Francis School, so, as a family, we have a long history at this unique school. I enjoy working at St. Francis School because of the terrific students, the extremely supportive families and the faith-filled atmosphere.

Grade 5B
Mrs. Kim Verhines:  kverhines@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2252
Education: BA Accounting, Social Science, and Elementary Education
I have been a 5th grade teacher at St. Francis since 2002. I teach religion, spelling, social studies, math and science. I love creating exciting science lessons and lab activities to make learning fun! I enjoy teaching at St. Francis because of the wonderful supportive families and staff.

Grade 6A
Mrs. Donna Lee:  dlee@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2261
Education: BA International Studies, MA Elementary Education
I feel so grateful to be part of the St. Francis community! I have been blessed to teach in a variety of schools including Catholic and Public schools. I have over 11 years experience as a teacher, working in both lower elementary and middle schools.  I am excited to be the 6th Grade Religion and ELA teacher and look forward to watching students continually grow and develop their love for reading and writing.

Grade 6B
Mr. Patrick Laughlin:  plaughlin@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2262
Education: BA Social Studies (RX): History and Political Science for Secondary Education, Communication and Theatre Arts Teaching for Secondary Education.
The opportunity to join the St. Francis’ team and to become a part of the community as a 6th grade teacher is a very exciting leap of faith. I have lived in the area for almost 10 years and have taught in a public school system for the last 15 years teaching various Social Studies subjects and Drama. In my time teaching and coaching it has become my passion to encourage children to build their basic skill levels, create their own understanding, and finally to find their confidence to share it with others.

Grade 6 Math/Science
Mrs. Tina Kivela:  tkivela@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2260
Education: BS Brain Behavior and Cognitive Sciences and Post-Baccalaureate degree in Elementary Education, Science Endorsement
I have been part of the Saint Francis community for 6 years as a parent, and couldn’t be happier to have joined the staff. I have always loved math and science, and I am excited to share that with the sixth grade students.

Middle School/Homeroom 7A
Ms. Julie Cencer:  jcencer@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2271
Education: BS Education, MSA School Administration
I am blessed beyond measure to be sharing my love of Jesus, my passion for English Language Arts, and my joy for teaching here at St. Francis! As a proud Catholic school graduate, I know the “Catholic school difference” firsthand. The unshakable foundation that I gained in Catholic school during my formative grade school years helped me to thrive spiritually, academically, and socially in an ever-changing world—it is a gift that keeps on giving today! What an honor it is to be igniting such a fire in the minds and hearts of my St. Francis students, as well as traveling alongside so many beautiful souls in this sweet school family on our quest to heaven. By the grace of God, we go! St. Francis of Assisi—pray for us!

Middle School/Homeroom 7B/Science
Mrs. Barbara Anderson:  banderson@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2285
Education: BS in Science, MS in Science, MA in Secondary Education
I feel so blessed to be welcomed into the St. Francis community.  After having worked in other schools for 12 years, moving to Ann Arbor from out of state and coming to St. Francis has been a very rewarding and exciting new adventure! I have enjoyed getting to know the kids and watching them explore science, math and religion.   I am also so grateful for the supportive and involved parent community.  I feel lucky to be part of a community so invested in helping our kids learn and grow!

Middle School/Homeroom 8A
Mrs. Megan DeVerna:  mdeverna@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2281
Education: BS Secondary Education, MA Education
I have been teaching Middle School Social Studies and English for many years. I love being able to support students as they navigate their adolescence years. St. Francis is such a special school and I feel truly blessed to be part of it as both a teacher and a parent. 

Middle School/Language Arts – 8th Grade
Mrs. Mitra Dunbar: mdunbar@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2272
Education: BA English and History, MA The Teaching of Writing
I feel blessed to join the St. Francis of Assisi staff as the eighth grade English Language Arts teacher. I hold a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and History from Michigan State University and a Master of Arts Degree in The Teaching of Writing from Eastern Michigan University. In addition to my work at St. Francis, I am a lecturer in the Department of English Language and Literature at Eastern Michigan University and a fellow of the National Writing Project.

Middle School/Math
Mr. Jeff Moyer: jmoyer@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2208
Education:  BA Physical Education
I am thrilled to be teaching at St. Francis! I have taught physical education and math in a Catholic school for many years. I am loving it! The staff, students, and parents have been so supportive and caring it has made for a great teaching experience!

Middle School/Math/ Homeroom 8B
*Mr. Christopher Stankovic:  cstankovic@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2282
Education:  BS Secondary Education/Math
I am very excited to be teaching at St. Francis. I went to this school from 1st – 6th grade. My family had to move after my 6th grade year, so I was not able to finish out middle school at St. Francis. I attended Central Michigan University for my degree in Education. It is great to come back here now and see some familiar faces and see some new changes.

Art 
Mrs. Jennifer Nowicki: jnowicki@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2297
Education: BFA, MA Reading
The most influential spiritual person in my life was my aunt, who was a Sister of Mercy in Farmington Hills.  She was an artist, an art teacher, and did extensive public service around the world.  I decided to put my artistic talents to use to serve God by becoming an art teacher.  I find sharing my abilities very rewarding.  When I am not at school, I enjoy spending time with my family.

Athletic Director
Mr. Robert Picano: rpicano@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2206
Education: BS Physical Education, MA Sports Administration, Administration Certificate and Certified Athletic Administrator
Let’s Go Mustangs! I am so excited to join the St. Francis staff and oversee the athletic program for our young Mustangs. I am looking forward to bringing my passion for Educational Athletics to St. Francis and watching our Mustangs compete. The best part about athletics is not just the competition but the life lessons we can teach the kids through the ups and downs that can occur in a season. During my free time I enjoy biking, golfing and binge watching TV when I have the time. I look forward to meeting everyone in the upcoming months. Giddy up Mustangs it’s time to ride!

Band Director
Mrs. Janet Sommerfeld:  jsommerfeld@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2298
Education: BA Music, MA Music
I am the band director responsible for instrumental music education at St. Francis. We have three bands in fifth through 8th grade. I have enjoyed teaching at St. Francis for over 20 years. I value the positive attitude of the students and their strong parental support of our programs. I enjoy working with the students each and every day to master their instrument and accompany them on their journey to musical success.

Choir Director
Mrs. Laura Bogan:  lbogan@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2200 x 295
Education: BA Music, MA Music
I direct the Elementary and Middle School Choirs at St. Francis, and prepare cantors for our school liturgies. I am grateful for the opportunity to prepare our students to serve in the liturgy, and to use their gifts and talents for the glory of God. The sound of young voices leading us in worship is extraordinary! St. Francis has a long tradition of excellence and support of liturgical music- I am honored to be a part of the tradition, and grateful to be a part of this community.

Librarian
Ms. Beth Shaum:  bshaum@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2293
Education: BS Elementary Education/MA English Studies
As both a student and teacher in Catholic schools for many years, I am grateful that I can share my faith with others. In my ten years as an English teacher, I became known as the person to go see for a good book recommendation. That reputation led me to moving from the classroom to the library and I couldn’t be happier. Helping students (and adults!) find what lights their fire as readers and learners isn’t just a job for me — it is a calling.

Music
Mrs. Robin Woodard:  rwoodard@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2294
Education: BME (Music Education)
I have taught in private and public schools around the country as my husband and I moved with his Navy career.  I love being able to share my passion for music education with the students here at St. Francis.  I feel very fortunate to work in such a supportive environment where the arts are so valued and appreciated. When I am not teaching, I love to travel with my husband and three children.

Physical Education
Mrs. Jennifer Brown: jbrown@stfrancisaa.org
Education: BS in Physical Education, MA in the Art of Teaching
I am excited to start teaching Physical Education at St. Francis! I received my bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan (Fire Up!) and my master’s from Marygrove College. Previously I taught PE in public school for 18 years. I love watching students learn, apply, and grow while in the gym. When not teaching, I enjoy playing pickleball, golf, softball, and being at the lake

Spanish (K-5)
Señora Rossana Swartz:  rswartz@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2283
Education: BA in Liberal Arts, MA in Education/Curriculum and Instruction
I feel so blessed to be given the opportunity to be teaching K-5 Spanish at St. Francis. Overall, I have over 21 years of teaching Spanish experience. I love to teach, spend quality time with my family and learning and appreciating different cultures through traveling. I’ve spent a great amount of time in Italy, Spain and Costa Rica. My goal is to teach Spanish language and culture by using fun and creative ways in order for students to have a true appreciation for Spanish.

Spanish (6-8)
Señorita Anna Damiani:  adamiani@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2284
Education:  BA History and Spanish, MA Education
I was baptized at St. Francis and feel blessed to be coming home!  Following graduation from the University of Michigan, I lived and worked in Mexico for 4 years.  I have also studied abroad in Spain and done volunteer work in Ecuador.  My goal is to increase student interest in Spanish language and culture, while developing speaking, listening, and reading skills.

SEL Teacher
Mrs. Cynthia Cashman: ccashman@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2200 x405
Education: BA Music Therapy
I am a St. Francis parent and am blessed to be a part of the SFA Community. Our rich Catholic Faith and Tradition is my passion. I have served as a catechist in many different settings. I am excited to help our students grow in their love of Christ, mastery of Virtue and to develop the tools needed to live an integrated social-emotional life in the light of grace.

Student Support Teacher
Mrs. Kimberly Power: kpower@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2250
Education: BAs Children’s Literature, Drama and Theatre for the Young, and Communications; Post-Baccalaureate Education, MA School Counseling
I have been delighted to be a part of our team since 2022. As a parishioner and school parent, I recognize the profound blessing of being part of a school community that is safe, supported, and spiritual. My work seeks to promote success within Catholic Education for a wider range of students through the use of evidence-based systems of support, delivered outside of the classroom setting. Seeing kids shine with pride and confidence after overcoming any challenge is my favorite moment!

Teacher Consultant
Dr. Jane Gordon:  jgordon@stfrancisaa.org  and 734-821-2209
Education: BA Economics, MA Elementary Education, PhD Reading and Learning Disabilities.
As the School Teacher Consultant, I work with parents and the Ann Arbor schools as a facilitator. I most enjoy the opportunity to work with the children, families and staff of St. Francis. It is a joy to watch the children learn and grow over the years.

Technology
Mr. Scott Hayes:  shayes@stfrancisaa.org and 734-821-2279
Education: BA Photography, Post Baccalaureate Elementary Teaching Certificate, MA Educational Media & Technology
I have been teaching technology for over ten years. My focus for the students is to recognize the significance of technology but more importantly the role each student has to play in positively contributing to our growing digital world. I enjoy traveling, camping, and exploring our wonderful planet with my wife, Andrea, and two children, Jillian and Jonah. Here are a few of my favorite things: snorkeling, the new Ford Bronco, the color orange, sasquatches, Ben and Jerry’s Phish Food (ice cream), and The Avett Brothers!