Instructors

Alan Thompson

Instructor - World Language

Alan became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2018. He earned his degree in 1994 from Grand Valley State University. He has been teaching for over 23 years in the Grand Rapids area of Michigan. In addition, Alan also has a wife and two kids. Alan enjoys spending time with family when not working with students.

Alanna Prieditis

Lead Instructor - World Language

Alanna became an online instructor with Michigan Virtual in 2012 and is currently a lead World Language instructor. While completing her undergraduate work at Oakland University, Alanna participated in a summer study abroad program at an American Institute in Valencia, Spain, receiving 12 college credits while living with a host family. After Alanna’s first year of teaching, she went back to Oakland University and received a master’s in educational studies. Alanna is a proud mom of two young children who, in addition to two Dogos Argentinos, keep her and her husband quite busy. She looks forward to sharing her love for traveling when the kids are a little bit older.

Alicia Dubisky

Instructor - World Language

Although Alicia began teaching as a long-term substitute preschool teacher in Florida, she has been a secondary teacher of English Language Arts and German since 2002 in public, private, studio and online education organizations. She has taught English, journalism, German, music (specifically percussion) and basic law. She is active in community music as a performer, a volunteer and as a board member. She also holds a TEFL license, and she enjoys volunteering in ESL programs, German language discussion groups and Argentine Tango groups. Alicia earned a bachelor’s degree in English and German at Western Michigan University, as well as a master’s degree in English studies for teachers at Eastern Michigan University. Alicia immerses herself in cultural and social activities and often finds herself taking on logistical and training duties, teaching technology-oriented skills to others to help implement efficient and accurate systems for departmental/organizational improvement. She currently serves as the School of Education Licensure Officer at Boston University and is a part-time German and English instructor for Michigan Virtual.

Allison Comer-Djoko

Instructor - World Language

Allison is a Spanish educator who is also a lifelong learner. She is a passionate educator and fell in love with Spanish as a high school student when she studied abroad in Spain. Before joining Michigan Virtual, Allison obtained a BA in Spanish and ESL education from Michigan State University and an MA in world language education from Michigan State University. She has taught Spanish for the last seven years from middle school to Adult Education in North Carolina, Michigan and Indiana. When not teaching, Allison enjoys reading, traveling, exercising and spending time with her husband and her pup Cora!

Allison Davert

Instructor - World Language

Allison is a passionate German teacher for Michigan Virtual. She has been teaching with Michigan Virtual since August of 2015, but she has been a full-time German teacher since 2010 in a public school. Allison also teaches German at Oakland University in the summer as a hybrid in-person/online course. She currently holds a master's in the art of teaching and a Bachelor of Arts in German and English both from Oakland University. She has studied German since she was 12 and has studied at the Goethe Institut in Bonn, Germany. In her free time, Allison enjoys writing and working on her memoir, spending time with her family, and shopping.

Amy Smith

Instructor - World Language

Amy is thrilled to be a part-time French and health instructor with Michigan Virtual. Her subject areas of French and health are more than academic for her as she uses French in her everyday life and does her best to live out what she teaches in health education. In her free time, she enjoys traveling with her husband, Nick Smith (also a Michigan Virtual instructor), and their young daughter Caroline, cooking, running and going to the beach.

Angela Rasmussen

Instructor - World Language

Angela joined Michigan Virtual in 2015 as a Spanish instructor. She has 10 years of teaching experience at the secondary level. Angela earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and Spanish from Michigan State University. She is certified to teach Spanish and English. Angela lives in Lapeer with her husband and two children. She enjoys reading, traveling and everyday adventures with her family.

Ashley Barbour

Instructor - World Language

Ashley obtained a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in Deaf education and a master’s from the University of Michigan - Flint in early childhood education. She has worked in a variety of classrooms with students who are Deaf or hard of hearing for the last nine years. Ashley is excited to be part of the team at Michigan Virtual, ready to share her passion for teaching American Sign Language and Deaf culture. Ashley joined Michigan Virtual in 2017.

Becky Manore

Instructor - World Language

Becky is dedicated, athletic and outgoing. She earned two undergraduate degrees at Michigan State University in Spanish and social relations and later earned a master’s in teaching and curriculum. She uses these skills at Michigan Virtual and teaching high school near Lansing. She loves to cook, to spend time with her two children (Maximus and Isabella) and to watch sports, especially college basketball. She wants to give students a different perspective on their own culture and how they view the world by learning another language.

Ben Ashby

Instructor - World Language

Ben lives in Zeeland and teaches high school level Spanish at Cityside Middle School. He loves playing, watching and coaching sports. Ben's a huge Michigan fan, even though he went to grad school at Michigan State, after earning his undergraduate degree at Calvin College in Grand Rapids. He's been teaching Spanish since 2005. Ben's other interests include playing fantasy sports (football, baseball, basketball), making music for his Spanish classes and hanging out with his family. Ben's wife, Sarah, is a former teacher, but is now a stay-at-home mom for their four boys.

Brendan Howard

Instructor - World Language

Brendan is a very passionate about teaching and learning. He has been teaching French since 2005 in the classroom and now enjoys teaching it virtually as well. Brendan has a bachelor’s degree in French and physical education from Western Michigan University, a master’s degree in educational administration from the Scranton University and studies for an Ed.D. in educational leadership from Walden University. When he is not teaching, you can often find Brendan touring around the country on his Kawasaki Concours14 with his wife on her Ninja 1000 or spending time with his wonderful family.

Briana Duvall

Instructor - World Language

Briana became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2018. She earned her degree in Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education from MacMurray College in 2014. She/he has been teaching for over 5 years in the Metro Detroit area of Michigan. In addition, Briana also enjoys spending time camping and hiking with her dog and husband when not working with students.

Cheryl Reger

Instructor - American Sign Language

Cheryl joined Michigan Virtual in the Fall of 2018 after serving in education for over 20 years.  Her bachelor's degree is in deaf education from Flagler College in Saint Augustine, Florida, and she earned her master's degree in counseling at Central Michigan University.  Cheryl has a strong passion for building connections with students and establishing relationships that build on student learning.  Cheryl currently is a high school guidance counselor and works closely with her students to guide them toward success.  She enjoys teaching ASL to students because it allows them to connect with others.  In addition to her professional status, Cheryl spends much time with her two teenage daughters traveling the midwest as they are very involved in travel softball.

Cheryl Ulicny

Instructor - American Sign Language

Cheryl has been a teacher for the Flint School District for more than 10 years. Previous to that, she was the interpreter for Deaf students for 15 years in the same district. Her teaching degree is from the University of Michigan-Flint (Go BLUE). she also has a master’s degree in special education and master’s degree in education. When not teaching, Cheryl enjoys spending time with her family, working outdoors and riding her motorcycle.

Darcy Ebert

Instructor - World Language

Darcy has taught French for Michigan Virtual for Students since 2014. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University, where she also studied in France, and a master’s degree from Central Michigan University. Darcy taught for several years at Portland and DeWitt high schools. She also teaches French at Lansing Community College. Darcy enjoys teaching and traveling to France and various francophone countries with her family and when she leads student groups. Darcy is happily married with two gorgeous children. She enjoys spending her free time with family and extended family and attending her children’s events.

David Milne

Senior Instructor - World Language

David earned a bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley in 2010. He is currently working on a master’s degree in educational technology. David has worked as a German and history teacher and has taught students from 7th-12th grade. He loves the German culture and enjoys visiting Germany, especially returning to Schwäbisch-Gmund, where he studied abroad. Outside of the classroom he enjoys playing sports and camping in Northern Michigan.

Erin Osman

Instructor - World Language

Salve, sum Magistra Erin Osman! Erin lives and teaches in Holland. She has taught Latin for over 20 years and loves sharing Greco-Roman culture with students whether it is through language-teaching, experience-travel or recognizing how Latin surrounds us daily.

Freda Jackson

Instructor - World Language

Freda has been teaching German at South Lyon Community Schools since 1996 and at Michigan Virtual since 2013. During her studies at Central Michigan University, she was granted a scholarship to study abroad in Bamberg, Germany. Freda enjoys traveling in general but especially in Germany and has organized many student trips to Germany. She received a Master of Arts from CMU in library media.

Irena Tobar

Instructor - World Language

Irena became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2019. She earned her degree in Business and Spanish from Northwood University and Siena Heights University. She has been teaching for over 10 years in the southeast area of Michigan. Irena enjoys spending time with her husband, Jonathan and her two children, Viviana and Santiago, when not working with students.

Jacqueline Lozano

Instructor - World Language

Jackie became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2019. She earned her degrees in 2002 and 2011 from Michigan State University. She has been teaching for over 7 years in the Genesee area of Michigan. She enjoys spending time watching/participating in sports, rooting for Michigan State, and spending time with her family when not working with students.

Jennifer Guthrie

Instructor - American Sign Language

Jennifer is caring and passionate about education especially being the only Deaf teacher at Michigan Virtual teaching American Sign Language. Jennifer earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Gallaudet University and a master's degree from Michigan State University. She is still teaching and has been for 16 years and counting. When she is not working, she enjoys being a mommy to her four children (two hearing boys and two Deaf girls).

Jennifer McKay

Instructor - American Sign Language

Jennifer joined Michigan Virtual in 2017. She has been passionate about Deaf education as long as she can remember. Jennifer grew up in Grand Blanc and was regularly at Michigan School for the Deaf where her mother taught. She graduated from MSU in 1997 with a degree in Deaf education. She continued at MSU to receive a master’s in Deaf education. After working at MSD for a few years, she transferred to Bentley High School where she teaches American Sign Language I, II and III. She currently instructs 10 districts in Genesee County daily. When she is not sharing her love of the language and culture of the Deaf with her students she is at home with her family or playing soccer. Jennifer and her husband Jeff have three children.

Jennifer Niner

Instructor - American Sign Language

Jennifer has been signing her whole life, both her parents are deaf and it's the first language she learned. Jennifer’s not deaf but has a great knowledge of ASL and the Deaf culture. She has a degree in hearing impairments and has worked for Ann Arbor Public schools since 2005. Jennifer has a lot of other passions like watching reality television and has a seven-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever that has a lot of energy.

Jerry May

Instructor - World Language

Jerry taught for many years at Northwestern High School in Detroit. He retired as of June 2005 and enjoys his time gardening. He is passionate about Latin and loved having the opportunity to share this language with young people.

Jess Stengel

Instructor - World Language

Jonathan Tobar

Instructor - World Language

Jonathan is a consummate educator with a rich background in K-12 education. He holds a Master of Art in K-12 educational administration from Michigan State University, another master's degree, TESOL, from Eastern Michigan University, and a Bachelor of Arts in secondary education and international business from Cornerstone University. He has taught Spanish, English as a Second Language, and drama at the middle and high school level. In addition, he has served as adjunct professor of Spanish at Siena Heights University and Adrian College. He also serves as president of the executive board of directors for the Michigan Association for Bilingual Education.

Judith Nixon

Instructor - World Language

Judy, a believer in lifelong learning and Japanese teacher for Michigan Virtual, loves studying and teaching languages. Before joining Michigan Virtual more than nine years ago, she taught special education, English, Spanish and Japanese at Eaton Rapids High School. A graduate of Spring Arbor and Michigan State universities, Judy enjoys cooking, gardening and studying new languages she can try out while traveling with her husband, Mark. She is a volunteer with the Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel and several other charitable organizations.

Karee Strome

Instructor - American Sign Language

Karee has been teaching students who are Deaf and hard of hearing for 20 years. She uses American Sign Language to communicate with her students and Deaf adults. In addition to teaching ASL at Michigan Virtual, Karee teaches ASL face-to-face in a public high school. She became a Michigan Virtual online instructor in 2015.

Kayla Kolean

Instructor - World Language

Kayla has taught Japanese at Michigan Virtual since 2015. She graduated from Michigan State University with a secondary teaching certificate in Japanese and English. Prior to joining Michigan Virtual, she lived and worked in Japan for two years. During that time Kayla traveled to many places, but her favorite traveling experience was hiking in the mountains with the “Kansai Ramblers” hiking group. After returning she taught English as a Second Language in Lansing. Now she works as an online Japanese instructor. Kayla is pursuing a master’s in foreign language instruction and acquisition.

Kellie Davis

Instructor - American Sign Language

Kellie works at Michigan Virtual and the Michigan School for the Deaf and lives in Swartz Creek. She has three children and one granddaughter. Her oldest son is Deaf and so is her granddaughter. She has a Deaf education degree from Michigan State University.

Kimberly Barkholz

Instructor - World Language

Kimberly has been a part-time instructor with Michigan Virtual since 2015. She is passionate about education, leadership and helping students and colleagues with anything they need. Kim earned her bachelor's degree from Eastern Michigan University in secondary education with certifications in French and mathematics. She also holds a master's degree from the University of Scranton in educational leadership and administration. She has been teaching since 2004. She currently teaches French 1 through AP French and Geometry at Onsted High School in Onsted, where she’s been employed 2005. Prior to Onsted, she taught all levels of math at Washtenaw Christian Academy.

Kristen Hansen

Instructor - American Sign Language

Kristen joined Michigan Virtual in 2015 and teaches American Sign Language. She has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Deaf education from Michigan State University. Her passion for ASL and the Deaf community continues to be strong 20 years later. Kristen married her high school sweetheart and has three grown children. In her spare time, she enjoys refurbishing antique furniture, running, biking, kayaking, hiking and spending time in the U.P. where two of her children live.

Kristin Koch

Senior Instructor - American Sign Language

Kristin has been an avid member of the Deaf community for the past 12 years. While attending college for her undergraduate degree in education, Kristin discovered Deaf education and decided to make the change. After obtaining a bachelor's degree in Deaf education from Michigan State University, she taught in the Deaf education setting for eight years before making a change to teach American Sign Language for Michigan Virtual. She enjoys being able to reach out to so many students, spreading her passion for ASL!

Laura Schaffer

Instructor - American Sign Language

Laura has been involved in the field of education for 15 years, joining Michigan Virtual in 2016, and has a strong interest in innovative and creative instructional practices. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Deaf education from MSU and a master’s degree in reading and language arts from Oakland University. Laura has taught in Deaf education, worked as a literacy specialist, a principal and as a curriculum and assessment specialist. She has presented research at national conferences on literacy. In her free time, Laura enjoys traveling, reading, kayaking, playing tennis and spending time with her family.

Lisa Gutierrez-Carroll

Instructor - World Language

Lori Marino

Instructor - World Language

Lori joined Michigan Virtual in 2015 as a Spanish instructor. She has 16 years of teaching experience at the high school level. Lori earned a Bachelor of Science in education from Central Michigan University in 1999 and a Master of Arts from Oakland University in 2002. She is certified to teach Spanish, English and reading. Lori lives in Oxford with her husband and two children. She enjoys traveling, running, reading and spending time with family.

Marilyn Bolster

Instructor - World Language

Marilyn retired from the face-to-face classroom in June 2015. She majored in Spanish and minored in English and linguistics at Oakland University. Through a variety of graduate programs, she has maintained her Michigan Teacher Certification. She has studied in Spain and Mexico as well as traveled to Costa Rica. Marilyn has 26+ years of classroom experience and another 15+ in tutoring homeschool students. She is a wife, mother of five, and grandmother of 10 and counting. She started teaching at Michigan Virtual in 2015.

Mary Ann DeVos

Instructor - World Language

Mary Ann became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in September, 2017. She earned her B.S. undergrad degree in education with a focus on Deaf Education and Early Childhood from Eastern Michigan University. She earned her Post-Graduate M.Ed in Deaf Education with a focus on Birth-age 3 from Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon. She has been teaching deaf/hh students for over 30 years. She has lived and taught in Wisconsin, Oregon, Maine and for the last 25 years in southeast Michigan. Mary Ann is also a certified ASL interpreter. She teaches a class in the Deaf Studies program at Madonna University. She has 2 adult children. Her daughter teaches middle school math in Austin, Texas and her son is a senior at WMU studying Public Relations and Business. When not working, Mary Ann enjoys traveling, biking, hiking, reading, and spending time with her large family. Summer is her favorite time of year. Mary Ann is often very impressed with how well many of the students learn ASL through this on-line course.

Melanie Cochrill

Instructor - World Language

Melanie became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2019. She earned her bachelor's degrees in Sign Language Studies and Spanish from Madonna University and her master's degree in Instructional Technology from Saginaw Valley State University. She has been teaching for over 15 years in the Metro Detroit area of Michigan. During the day, Melanie teaches American Sign Language and Computer Science full-time in a Metro Detroit high school. In addition, Melanie also has a husband and four young children. When not working with students, she enjoys spending time volunteering with her family, reading, and scrapbooking so that she will remember the whirlwind of life that she is currently living and loving.

Meredith Young

Instructor - American Sign Language

Meredith is a strong advocate that all students, hearing or deaf, should learn ASL. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in Deaf education. She was then recruited for a position in California teaching Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing students. She received her master’s degree in Deaf education from California State, Northridge. Her Deaf parents still live in Michigan and she comes back occasionally to visit. She enjoys playing softball and practicing Bikram yoga, and she still roots for the Spartans!

Noel Strieter

Instructor - American Sign Language

American Sign Language has been a part of Noel’s life since her early high school years. She’s worked for Michigan Virtual since 2017. Noel attended Michigan State University for Deaf education. Since then, she has taught in a variety of capacities, from ASL through televised virtual learning, Deaf and Hard of Hearing students (elementary and high school), and teacher of American Sign Language at local high schools. What began as just a class has become a passion and a career. She hopes that her class can also encourage and inspire others to make ASL a lifelong learning opportunity. Noel is married and has two daughters and one son. Noel and her family enjoy hiking, kayaking, and just spending time playing and making memories. They have a puppy named “Zenner” and a cat called “the kitty.”

Rachel Filar

Instructor - American Sign Language

Rachel is a full-time American Sign Language Instructor at Michigan Virtual since 2016. She graduated from Michigan State University with a master’s in Special Education and taught Deaf Education for 8 years. Rachel is an enthusiastic teacher and coach who thrives on making connections with her students. In her free time, you can find her spending time with her family. She also enjoys exploring the great outdoors with her husband and dog.

Susi Shaw

Instructor - World Language

Susi became an online instructor at Michigan Virtual in 2015. She earned her B.A. in international studies and German from Michigan State University with one year of study at Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, Germany. She is certified to teach K-12 Japanese and German and has an M.A. in teaching English as a Second Language from Eastern Michigan University. Susi lived in Japan for two years teaching English and traveled with high school students to Japan three times. Susi has taught World Languages in K-12 schools for over 20 years. She and her husband live in Ann Arbor with their two sons.

William Springer

Lead Instructor - World Language

William is passionate about engaging students and equipping teachers, both of which he regularly practices in his lead World Language instructor role. He was named Michigan Online Teacher of the Year in 2016. William has enjoyed learning and teaching in many varied settings, including touring with a French-Canadian musical ensemble, living with a French family, graduating from Central Michigan University, and video teaching students across the U.S. Enjoying faith, family and playing music is where you’ll find him when not teaching online.

Steve Csage

Instructor - Social Studies

Allison Gillie

Instructor - Social Studies

Allison joined the Michigan Virtual staff as an Instructor in 2018. She has a bachelor’s degree in History with a minor in Psychology from Michigan State University. She spent 4 years teaching face-to-face before joining the Michigan Virtual staff full time. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, family, and pets. She is an avid cooker and loves the outdoors, camping, and Aikido - a Japanese martial art.

Brian Moore

Instructor - Social Studies

Brian has taught economics for Michigan Virtual since 2014. He has taught elementary, middle and high school classes in Kansas, Arizona and Michigan.

Brian TerBush

Instructor - Social Studies

Brian became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in January, 2018. He earned his degree in history, math, and English education from Saginaw Valley State University and remembers when it was called SVSC if that gives you an indication of when he graduated from SVSU. He taught for twenty-six years at Reese High School in Reese, Michigan. After retiring from Reese High in June of 2018, he and his wife, Shelley (who also works for Michigan Virtual) have become full time RV'ers and spend their time wandering. In addition to his wife, he also has a twenty-five year old son going to law school and two dogs, a puggle and English mastiff. Mr. TerBush enjoys spending time fly-fishing for anything, reading, and backpacking when not working with students.

Christina Lindberg

Instructor - Social Studies

Christina has spent more than a decade in education as a high school teacher and counselor; she joined Michigan Virtual in 2017. Christina earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, business and health from Central Michigan University, and a master’s degree in counseling from Oakland University. Christina completed post-graduate studies in online teaching and learning from Michigan State University. In addition to teaching, she has coached high school softball and volleyball. She enjoys traveling, tennis, reading, and spending time with her husband and two children.

Colleen Scott

Instructor - Social Studies

Dale Coats

Instructor - Social Studies

Dale Coats began teaching at Michigan Virtual in 2013 and currently teaches AP Microeconomics and Economics. Dale has been teaching for Rochester Community Schools since 2009, presently at Stoney Creek High School in Rochester Hills. He created the AP Microeconomics program at Stoney Creek and continues to teach a multitude of social studies courses (AP Micro, Economics, and Philosophy are his favorites). Additionally, he is the head varsity girls lacrosse coach at Stoney Creek High School. Dale received a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Oakland University and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Wayne State University. He resides in Rochester Hills with his wife and faithful companions Lily and Phoenix (200lb. English Mastiff). Dale enjoys spending time with his family, vacations, going to his cottage in northern Wisconsin, and walking his dogs.

Dayna DesJardins

Instructor - Social Studies

Dayna became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2018 after joining Michigan Virtual's first collaborative with St. Clair County RESA's LearnON program. She earned her degree in Secondary History and English Education from Saginaw Valley State University in 2014. She has been teaching for over 5 years in the Port Huron area of Michigan. In her spare time she loves to follow sports, read, and play with her dog.

Donald McLaughlin

Instructor - Social Studies

Don has been teaching economics since 2001. He spent five years as a social studies teacher and track & field coach in southern California before returning to the great state of Michigan. A graduate of the University of Michigan, he received a master’s degree in education from California State University. Don is also a National Board Certified teacher in the field of social studies. He teaches AP Microeconomics, Macroeconomics and general education economics for Michigan Virtual. Don enjoys running, reading, traveling and cooking.

Jayme McWain

Instructor - Social Studies

Jayme joined Michigan Virtual in 2016 and teaches AP Psychology. She absolutely loves teaching and helping students to understand the world around them. She also teaches four sections of AP Psychology and one section of English 9 in Grand Rapids. Jayme is a graduate of Grand Valley State University with a major in English and a minor in psychology.

Jenifer Gould

Instructor - Social Studies

Jenifer is passionate about education and making a difference in the lives of young people. As a part-time instructor, Jenifer gets to live out her passion for education as well as making a difference. Jenifer earned a bachelor's degree in group social studies and German from Grand Valley State University in 2012. Prior to being an instructor with Michigan Virtual, she taught middle school and high school students in both German and social studies. In her free time, Jenifer loves being a mom to her young children and spending time with her husband and dog, exploring her new adopted city of Dallas, working out and reading.

Kristen Boduch

Instructor - Social Studies

Kristen has been an online and face-to-face Social Studies instructor since 2006. She received her undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University in social studies and her master’s degree from Concordia University in educational leadership and administration. When she is not teaching, she enjoys spending time with her daughter and husband, attending University of Michigan sporting events (Go Blue!), and going to the lake/beach.

Kyle McGrath

Instructor - Social Studies

Kyle has been teaching at Michigan Virtual since 2015. He also teaches several social studies subjects at Milford High School in Huron Valley Schools. Prior to teaching, Kyle worked in both business and government. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in public policy from Michigan State University and a Masters of Arts in teaching from Oakland University. Kyle is a published children’s book author and the recipient of the 2014 Outstanding Teacher of American History award from the Daughters of the American Revolution Piety Hill Chapter.

Manessa Braman

Instructor - Social Studies

Manessa has been teaching business and social studies classes for 26 years in a traditional classroom. She recently started teaching online classes with Michigan Virtual in 2018 and enjoys it very much. She earned her B.A. in Business Education and Social Studies from Siena Heights University and M.A. in Teacher Education from Spring Arbor University. Besides teaching, she likes to spend time with my husband, children, and grandchildren. She loves watching high school sports along with the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, and anything Notre Dame (GO IRISH!). She also loves animals, especially my border collie/black lab mix; Cabby, and tuxedo cat; Irish.

Molly Bruzewski

Instructor - Social Studies

Molly has been teaching for Michigan Virtual since 2001. She teaches AP Government, Civics and Legal Issues. Molly has also served on the Online Instructor Training team, training new teachers for Michigan Virtual. Molly has two bachelor’s degrees from Central Michigan, a master’s degree from the University of Tulsa, and is currently working on her Education Specialist degree from Saginaw Valley State University. She was a recipient of the Gerstacker Fellowship from SVSU and a national James Madison Fellow.

Rachel Bergy

Instructor - Math / Social Studies

Rachel became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2015. She earned her degree in Social Studies and Mathematics from Grand Valley State University (Go Lakers!). She currently lives in Ohio with her husband and toddler and enjoys baking, traveling, and trying to keep up with her son! She loves helping her students achieve their goals and is passionate about online learning.

Ryan Call

Senior Instructor - Social Studies

Ryan has been teaching for Michigan Virtual since 2010 and is a full-time social studies instructor. He earned a Bachelor of Science in social studies and history at Eastern Michigan University. Before joining Michigan Virtual, Ryan proudly served in the U.S. Army for five years and was able to see the world and experience many different cultures. When Ryan is not teaching, he enjoys traveling, camping and photography.

Ryan Ganzevoort

Instructor - Social Studies

Ryan is a graduate of Grand Valley State University with a bachelor's degree in group social studies-secondary education. He was part of the iEducator Cohort I with Michigan Virtual and is now a part-time teacher. Ryan is also an assistant softball coach at Calvin College.

Shelley TerBush

Instructor - Social Studies

Shelley has been teaching in public schools for 22 years and joined Michigan Virtual in 2017. She graduated from Saginaw Valley State University with a B.A. (in English with endorsements in psychology and biology) and from Central Michigan University with an M.A. (library science). Shelley has taught a variety of classes from English to AP Psychology to Cinema. Her passion for experiences and learning serve as a guide in her teaching and her life.

Tara Becker-Utess

Instructor - Math / Social Studies

Tara has taught mathematics and social studies at Michigan Virtual since 2009. She also taught in a face-to-face classroom for nine years before moving to Ingham ISD as an academic consultant. She is passionate about using technology to help personalize learning for all students. Tara loves meeting students from all over the state and providing them detailed feedback so they know where they are at in the learning process.

Whitney O'Keefe

Instructor - Social Studies

Whitney O’Keefe has been teaching for 15 years.  She's taught a variety of Social Studies subjects, but Economics her favorite. Economics is like a game – she loves using models and graphs to explain things. Economics makes math easier to understand, because it just makes so much sense.  When not teaching, Whitney loves to run,  finishing her 4th full marathon in 2019. Whitney also teaches yoga, and loves to be active. Family is really important to her and makes sure no matter how busy she is, to always make time for family.  

Zachary Abeel

Instructor - Social Studies

Zachary has been teaching high school and middle school social studies for 14 years. He spent his first two years teaching American history and economics in Cairo, Egypt. Currently, he lives in Oxford with his wife, two daughters and dachshund. Besides teaching, Zachary also coaches middle school and high school basketball. In his free time he likes traveling, reading, playing the guitar and building with Legos.

Andrew Moore

Instructor - Science

Andrew became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2016. He earned his degree in Chemistry from Michigan State University in 1998, and earned a Masters in Chemistry from MSU in 2006. Andrew has taught in various places, starting on Long Island in NY, to Grand Rapids, to Okemos. Along the way he has authored a textbook and two major science programs that are currently running in numerous Michigan schools; one program allows high school students to perform college level research in college research labs, and the other program takes hundreds of high school students each week to elementary schools to work one on one doing advanced inquiry science with 2nd to 5th grade students. He has been teaching for over 20 years in both high school and the college setting. Andrew has three children, two dogs, and enjoys spending his free time snowboarding in the winter and wakeboarding in the summer.

Cheryl Butterfield

Instructor - Science

Cheryl graduated from Arizona State University in 1990 with degrees in psychology and family studies where she went on to work at a children’s psychiatric facility for eight years. When she moved back to Michigan she added biology and general science degrees with a teacher’s certification from Saginaw Valley State University. She has two master’s degrees from Walden University. Cheryl teachers science at Lapeer High School which is also her hometown. She has three children, Andrew, Paige and Colin, who keep her and her husband, Dave, very busy in sports and other extracurricular activities.

Christin Schmitt

Instructor - Science

Christin has been teaching for nine years and has certifications in biology and integrated science. She started teaching with Michigan Virtual in 2015. Aside from teaching, Christin keeps busy by chasing her two kids around, reading and spending time outdoors. She also loves sports and keeping up with exciting new findings in the scientific community.

Hannah Bur

Instructor - Science

Hannah joined Michigan Virtual in 2016 as an iEducator. She teaches many different courses as a member of the science department. Hannah is a graduate of Michigan State University with a bachelor's degree in biology, a minor in chemistry and specialization in global education. Hannah studied education in China and she hopes to keep traveling around the world. She currently resides in Kalamazoo with her husband. In her spare time, she loves to follow sports, read and cook!

Jaci Tyler

Lead Instructor - Science

Jaci has a passion for science, which led her to study chemistry and physics at Marquette University for a bachelor's degree. She also has a master's degree in education from Cornerstone University. On top of teaching for Michigan Virtual, Jaci has been a face-to-face teacher since 2005 in Forest Hills Public Schools. When not teaching, you can find Jaci teaching fitness classes and spending time with her family and their bulldogs.

Jackie Mitchell

Instructor - Science

Jacqueline graduated from Western Michigan University in 2000 with a Bachelor of Science in biology and secondary education. She added a secondary mathematics teaching endorsement in 2005. Jacqueline also received a master's degree in science education from WMU. Besides teaching, Jacqueline enjoys cooking, playing the piano and spending time with her husband and six children.

Jenna Tucker

Instructor - Science

Jenna began teaching with Michigan Virtual in 2015, previously teaching life sciences for Detroit Public Schools. She has a bachelor of science in biology with a minor in psychology from Oakland University where she was a teaching assistant in a human cadaver lab for two years. Jenna worked in the medical field for six years prior to teaching and was trained as an EMT. She was a Woodrow Wilson Teach Fellow and has an M.A.T. from Wayne State University. Jenna lives in St. Clair Shores with her husband and son.

Josh Skodack

Instructor - Science

Josh became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2019. He earned her/his Bachelors degree in Applied Physics from Purdue University and his Masters in Biophysics and Masters in Secondary Education from the University of Michigan. He has been teaching for over 8 years in the southeast area of Michigan. In addition, Josh also teaches full time at Pathways to Success Academic Campus in the Ann Arbor Public School district. Josh enjoys spending time running marathons, going to Michigan football and hockey games with his wife Bernadette and taking care of his Alaskan malamute Blue when not working with students.

Julie Crossman

Instructor - Science

Julie is a science teacher both online as well as in a traditional face-to-face classroom. Julie earned her undergraduate science teaching degree at Western Michigan University and a master’s degree at MSU. She enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and cooking.

Linda Hanson

Instructor - Science

Linda has been a science instructor with Michigan Virtual since 2011. She is also an instructor of chemistry at the University of Southern Mississippi in Long Beach, Miss. She retired from Reeths-Puffer Schools in Muskegon after 30 years of service at the high school level and moved south to the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. Linda’s master’s degree in chemistry was earned from Central Michigan University and her pharmacy degree was earned from Ferris State University. Her hobbies include sailing, golfing and skiing.

Lisa Radjewski

Instructor - Science

Lisa has been working for Michigan Virtual since 2015. She has taught biology, AP biology, anatomy and physiology, and oceanography. Her passion is biology and has been teaching face-to-face since 2000 at Brandon High School in Ortonville. Outside of class, Lisa can be found spending time with her two children, husband, scrapbooking or traveling.

Nicholas Smith

Instructor - Science

Nicholas is in his fourth year teaching high school math and physics in face-to-face and virtual settings. He joined Michigan Virtual in 2015. Nicholas studied math and physics at Grand Valley State University and completed a Master of Arts in science education (physics) from Western Governor's University. He enjoys being in the outdoors (hiking and kayaking), fixing up his house (learning to do plumbing) and spending time with his awesome wife (also a Michigan Virtual teacher).

Nicole Lemon

Instructor - Science

Nicole has taught for Michigan Virtual since 2015 and also teaches science at a private school in Ann Arbor. She has a bachelor’s degree in zoology from Michigan State University and master’s degrees in natural resource policy and behavior and science education, and a graduate certificate in museum studies, from the University of Michigan. Prior to becoming a teacher, Nicole worked for Disney World’s Epcot Center and Disney’s Animal Kingdom as an animal keeper. While at Disney World, she did shows and presentations with a variety of different animals including everything from dolphins to tarantulas. Nicole moved back to Michigan to work in conservation education at the Detroit Zoo and to pursue her graduate degrees. She lives in Ypsilanti with her husband, Ryan, and son, Quin.

Shawn Maison

Instructor - Science

Shawn is a science teacher with a desire to spend as much time teaching outdoors as possible. He has taught biological sciences for over 10 years. Shawn is also the head varsity swim coach at Standish-Sterling Schools, and he runs a USA Swimming team for the school as well. His degrees range from an undergraduate degree majoring in biology and physical education from Ferris State University, as well as a MAT in natural science from Saginaw Valley State University. Shawn has a passion for coaching and teaching but is drawn to the open water and fishing with his family when time allows.

Stephanie Pearsall

Instructor - Science

Stephanie strives to cultivate a growth mindset and to continue to expose herself to greater challenges and learning opportunities. Prior to working at Michigan Virtual, Stephanie earned a bachelors’ degree at Saginaw Valley State University, taught in the K-12 setting for three years, worked in philanthropy, and owns a small business as a professional artist. When not sharing the love of online education, you can find her enjoying nature with her family, trying new and spontaneous challenges, or serving in her local community.

Stephen Atwood

Instructor - Science

Stephen started with Michigan Virtual in the first cohort of iEducators in 2015. He is currently a full-time science teacher at Marquette Senior High School and continues to teach science courses for Michigan Virtual. Stephen has a B.S. in environmental science and policy and a DX and DI teaching certificate from Northern Michigan University. When not in his face-to-face or online classrooms, Stephen likes to spend time with his wife and two kids outside in the woods of Marquette.

Tammie Mirolli

Instructor - Science

Tammie has taught high school chemistry and AP chemistry for 10 years at Brandon High School. She received an undergraduate degree from Butler University in Indiana, and a master’s degree from Michigan State University. Tammie enjoys spending her time watching her son play sports and in the gym weightlifting and exercising.

Aaron Jurek

Instructor - Math

Aaron grew up on a farm in Standish. He attended Saginaw Valley State University and obtained a degree in mathematics and natural science. He is a full-time science and mathematics instructor at John Glenn High School in Bay City. Aaron has three wonderful children. His hobbies are to hunt and fish in his local watershed.

Aaron Lang

Instructor - Math

Aaron became a Michigan Virtual online instructor in 2010. He is a member of the Math department and is certified to teach history and math.

Adair Aumock

Lead Instructor - Math

Born and raised in the Thumb, Adair has been a professional educator for 3 decades in Michigan. After serving many of those years in Curriculum and Technology leadership roles for multiple districts and ISDs, Adair returned to his true passion for teaching by joining Michigan Virtual part-time in 2020. The following year, he began serving as the full-time Lead Instructor for Math, adding Computer Science in 2024. Adair earned teaching credentials in Math and Physical Science from the University of Michigan, adding a Master's in Career Technical Education in Educational Technology from Ferris State. He has 3 grown children and currently lives in Bay City with his wife, two dogs, and three cats. When he isn’t teaching, Adair enjoys visiting his children and exploring the outdoor wonders of our Great Lakes state. Whether relaxing on a beach, Jeeping/snowmobiling through the woods, cross-country skiing, boating, camping, or just taking a cruise on his Harley, Adair recharges through time spent outdoors with friends and loved ones.

Amanda Hill

Instructor - Math

Amanda has been teaching math and coaching basketball for over 10 years. Before becoming a teacher she worked in public accounting at Deloitte. She earned her undergraduate degree from the College of the Holy Cross and her master’s degree in education from Wayne State. She loves to travel the world and has lived in both Boston and California. Right now, she is living in the Metro Detroit area with her husband and two small children.

Andrew Abissi

Instructor - Math

Andrew became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2017. He earned his degree in 2009 from Central Michigan University. He has been teaching for over 10 years in the Grand Rapids area of Michigan. In addition, Andrew also has a degree in art education. Andrew enjoys spending time with his family when not working with students.

Brent Cubitt

Instructor - Math

Brent is passionate about math and science education. He teaches face-to-face at Lake Orion High School along with being a part-time instructor for Michigan Virtual. Prior to teaching, Brent worked in the automotive industry for eight years as a sales engineer. He holds an MBA from Oakland University, an engineering degree from Michigan State University and was certified to teach through Saginaw Valley State University. When not teaching, Brent coaches basketball and spends quality time with his wife and three daughters.

Bryan Lynch

Instructor - Math

Bryan is from the Lansing area and went to Central Michigan University. He has a degree in math (major), as well as a minor in physical education. He enjoys playing and watching sports and being with his friends and family. He loves what he does and has taught just about every math class there is! Whether students love math, or it is not their favorite subject, Bryan hopes that students find something that they can improve upon throughout their time together.

David Swoish

Instructor - Math

Dave became an instructor at Michigan Virtual in 2018. He earned his bachelors degree in math and general science from Eastern Michigan University and then his masters degree in special education from Oakland University. He has been teaching for over 14 years in the Metro Detroit area of Michigan. In addition Mr. Swoish also has a wife and two kids. Mr. Swoish enjoys spending time with family, golfing, hunting, and fishing when not working with students.

Elisha Murphy

Instructor - Math

Elisha has been teaching at Michigan Virtual since 2005. She teaches personal finance, math skills, algebra and geometry. She also teaches mathematics at East Grand Rapids High School. Elisha graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in secondary education. She completed her master’s at the University of Michigan in public administration. She has four amazing children.

J.R. Hill

Instructor - Math

J.R. has been a mathematics instructor with Michigan Virtual since 2004. He currently teaches Algebra 1 and Mathematics of Baseball. In the past, J.R. has taught Algebra II, Geometry, Math Skills, Pre-Calculus and Trigonometry. He has also served as the Mathematics department head and helped develop many math online courses. J.R currently works at Clinton Middle School teaching seventh-grade math. He also teaches two engineering courses at Clinton Middle School through Project Lead the Way. J.R. has also coached varsity basketball, junior varsity baseball and varsity baseball. Prior to coaching high school, he was a college baseball coach with Siena Heights University, where he played four years of college baseball. J.R. has also volunteered for the American Cancer Society, Lymphoma and Leukemia Society and Catholic Social Services. He is married and has three children.

Jamey Logan

Instructor - Math

Jamey has been teaching AP statistics at Michigan Virtual since 2014. She has 22 years of teaching experience at the high school level. Jamey has a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a master’s degree in K-12 education leadership from Grand Valley State University. She is certified to teach secondary mathematics and science. Jamey lives in Fenton with her husband and four children. When not teaching she enjoys running, spending time in the Upper Peninsula and coaching gymnastics.

Julie Milder

Instructor - Math

Julie taught math and was an Instructional Specialist for 31 years. She retired from Reeths-Puffer Public Schools and began teaching full-time for Michigan Virtual in 2020. Julie loves math and her desire is to instill that love in her students. When she is not teaching, Julie likes to spend time with her family, dogs, cats, and chickens and spend time outside gardening and rock hunting.

Mary Carpenter

Instructor - Math

Mary became a Michigan Virtual online instructor in 2008. Mary earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from Wayne State University. She is a member of the math department and is certified to teach math, health and social studies. Mary also has had many classes in computers. She has worked in schools teaching middle school and high school students. She has also taught at several universities. Mary loves to learn and challenge herself with new ideas. She loves being with her family and seven grandchildren. The seven boys make a perfect sports team.

Rachel Bergy

Instructor - Math / Social Studies

Rachel became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2015. She earned her degree in Social Studies and Mathematics from Grand Valley State University (Go Lakers!). She currently lives in Ohio with her husband and toddler and enjoys baking, traveling, and trying to keep up with her son! She loves helping her students achieve their goals and is passionate about online learning.

Tara Becker-Utess

Instructor - Math / Social Studies

Tara has taught mathematics and social studies at Michigan Virtual since 2009. She also taught in a face-to-face classroom for nine years before moving to Ingham ISD as an academic consultant. She is passionate about using technology to help personalize learning for all students. Tara loves meeting students from all over the state and providing them detailed feedback so they know where they are at in the learning process.

Amy Tesolin

English Language Arts / Visual Performing Arts

Amy became a Michigan Virtual online instructor in 2022.  She currently teaches courses in the Science and English Language Arts and Visual Performing Arts Departments. She was a park ranger for the national park’s system in Canada before becoming a high school biology and visual arts teacher in Ontario.  In addition to a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Education, she also holds a Masters in Online Education. Amy loves getting out into the beautiful Michigan outdoors with her spouse, two kids, and her dog.

Betsy Wellfare

Instructor - English Language Arts / Visual Performing Arts

Betsy is passionate about art, art history and travel. She has taught for Michigan Virtual since January 2006 and was named Michigan Online Teacher of the Year in 2017. Betsy teaches AP Art History, Art Appreciation and Digital Imaging and Communication. She earned a BFA in art and design from the University of Michigan, an art education certificate from Northern Michigan University, and an MFA in curriculum and teaching from Michigan State University. Betsy taught high school art face-to-face for 11 years. When not teaching you can find her creating artwork, traveling or spending time with her family.

Bruce VanderKolk

Instructor - English Language Arts / Visual Performing Arts

After spending 32 years teaching face-to-face, Bruce decided to pursue his passion in retirement. It just happens to be that his passion is teaching. He thoroughly enjoys helping high school students discover great literature and the measure of freedom that online instruction provides. He enjoys time with his wife in the Florida sun in the winter, has tons of fun on the pickleball court, and loves caring for what he believes to be the cutest dog in the world, his chihuahua, Bailey.

Caitlin Broton

Instructor - English Language Arts / Visual Performing Arts

Caitlin joined Michigan Virtual as an iEducator in 2017 after teaching social studies and English Language Arts face-to-face for five years. She graduated from Ferris State University with a double major in English and social studies education and is currently working toward a Master of Education in literacy studies from Grand Valley State University. In her spare time, Caitlin enjoys traveling with her husband, playing with her energetic pets, horseback riding, and, of course, reading.

Cynthia Penski

Instructor - English Language Arts / Visual Performing Arts

Passionate about learning and developing students' love for writing, Cindi has taught high school English since 1992. When she's not in "teacher mode," she is running, reading, or more likely spending time with her family and cheering her kids on at all of their athletic activities.

Emilia McGuckin

Senior Instructor - English Language Arts / Visual Performing Arts

Emilia joined Michigan Virtual in 2015 and serves as a full-time English instructor. She attended Madonna University where she double-majored in English and communication arts as well as earning a teaching degree. She believes all kids deserve a great education and is committed to bringing quality learning opportunities to students of all backgrounds and abilities. She lives in southeast Michigan with her husband and two children.

Heather Murphy

Lead Instructor - English Language Arts

Heather has been an educator since 1998. Before becoming the Lead Social Studies Instructor and then the Lead Instructor - English Language Arts at Michigan Virtual, she taught in a face-to-face setting, as an online instructor and in adult education; she was also the director of an online high school for at-risk students. Majoring in education, Heather graduated from the University of Michigan and earned a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. Outside of the classroom, Heather can be found baking, camping and spending quality time with her family and five crazy pets!

Jennifer Daddow

Instructor - English Language Arts / Visual Performing Arts

Jen has been teaching both high school and middle school English in either face-to-face or online capacities since 2006. Additionally, she is an assistant principal at Clague Middle School in Ann Arbor. She graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a Bachelor of Arts in English and communications/theater arts and later received a master’s in special education from Madonna University. In January 2017, she headed back to school to earn her master's certificate in administration. She joined Michigan Virtual in the summer of 2015, and she teaches a variety of English classes at both the middle school and high school level. She loves to travel, cook, bake, exercise, read, take pictures and learn new forms of technology.

Katie Bouldin

Instructor - English Language Arts / Visual Performing Arts

Before working for Michigan Virtual, Katie taught at Arenac Eastern for two years. She has a bachelor’s degree in music education. When not teaching, she owns her own photography business. Katie also loves sewing and being outdoors.

Matt Harbron

Lead Instructor - English Language Arts / Visual Performing Arts

Matt started teaching at Michigan Virtual in 2020 as a part-time English instructor and then moved to a full-time position in 2021. He graduated from Central Michigan University with an English and Journalism degree. During that time, he studied abroad in Australia. Later, he earned a Master’s degree in Curriculum from Eastern Michigan University. He is from Northern Michigan but migrated to Metro Detroit, where he spent his 26-year career teaching middle school. Matt’s hobbies include walking in nature parks and appreciating architecture and design.

Robert DeLisle

Instructor - English Language Arts / Visual Performing Arts

Bobby was in 9th grade when he began playing music. His dad is a jazz drummer, but Bobby discovered that the bass was his instrument. He graduated from Wayne State University in 2010 with a bachelors degree in music education and began his teaching career right away. He's taught many different types of music: general, orchestra, band, jazz band, guitar, piano, vocal and music appreciation. Bobby received a master's degree in music composition from Wayne State University in 2014 and has had compositions performed in California, South Carolina, Illinois, Ohio, and of course, in Michigan. He's performed in many different jazz clubs with some fantastic musicians. His wife is also a music teacher and they have a pet dog named Harper.

Sarah Loop

Senior Special Education Specialist

Sarah joined Michigan Virtual in 2020 and now divides her time between working in Special Education and teaching English. She also holds an Advanced Teacher Certificate in Michigan. Sarah's belief is that knowledge is power, and learning can be fun! When Sarah is not teaching, she enjoys spending time with her family and exploring new foods, new books, and new adventures!

Steven Barrows

Instructor - English Language Arts / Visual Performing Arts

Steve grew up in Lansing, Michigan, and earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Michigan State University. He earned two Master’s Degrees, one in Secondary Education from Saginaw Valley State University and one from the University of Michigan-Flint in English Language and Literature. Steve spent twenty-six years teaching all levels of English at Marlette High School, including AP courses and concurrent enrollment college courses before becoming an instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2021. He has been married for 36 years and has three adult children. In his spare time, Steve enjoys reading, going to the beach, hiking, and working on jigsaw puzzles.

Amy Kotsch

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Amy, English and Business Education Instructor, has been a Michigan-certified 7-12 educator since 1996 and a Michigan Virtual instructor since 2003. She has taught English 10A, English 10B and beginning composition courses as the lead instructor, and a second section instructor for employability skills and business ethics. In addition to being a member of the Michigan Virtual team, Amy teaches English and computer courses at a small school in Michigan’s thumb. Amy graduated from Central Michigan University in 1996 with a bachelor’s degree in English, business education and recreation. In 2002 she earned a master’s degree in educational technology from Central Michigan University.

Ben Miller

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Ben became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2019. He earned his degree in Computer Science from Lake Superior State University. He has been teaching computer and technology courses for over 17 years in the south central area of Michigan. In addition, Ben also has a MA in Educational Technology from Central Michigan University. In his free time, Ben enjoys spending time with his wife and kids. They enjoy camping and traveling around Michigan and the United States.

Bob Elenbaas

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Bob studied math, science and computer science at Central Michigan University. He has spent many years teaching computer programming to high school students using many computer languages. Bob enjoys working with online students and seeing students flourish while working at their own pace. In his free time, he enjoys reading, movies and home improvement.

Carrie Begick

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Carrie has been teaching health for Michigan Virtual since 2014. She has taught physical and health education at the high school level. Carrie graduated from Saginaw Valley State University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts majoring in physical, health, dance and recreation education. She also holds a master's in educational leadership degree from SVSU. In addition to teaching, she has coached high school volleyball. She enjoys camping, sports and spending time with her husband and two children.

Christine Eaton

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Chris became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in the fall of 2019. She earned her bachelor's degree from Eastern Michigan University in Business Education and a masters from Marygrove College in Teaching Methods. In addition to teaching for Michigan Virtual, she is also the Curriculum Coordinator for a Career and Technical Education center, she has been in education for 24 years. In her free time, Chris and her husband are avid snowmobilers, water enthusiasts and have recently taken up motorcycle riding. They enjoy spending time at their vacation house at the tip of the mitt and visiting their 3 beautiful granddaughters in San Antonio, Texas.

Christine Kunst

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Christine enjoys getting to know her students and is excited about the courses she teaches. She has a bachelor's in nursing and biology, and a master's in teaching. Before teaching for Michigan Virtual, she worked as a Registered Nurse and CPR instructor and taught at the secondary level, and some college courses. Her career as a nurse has definitely enriched her background in the courses she teaches (health, medical terminology, and anatomy and physiology). When she is not teaching, Christine loves to spend time with her family and also runs, bikes and does triathlons. She has run the Boston Marathon and completed seven full distance Ironman triathlons in addition to many shorter triathlons (many of these with her husband and two of her sons).

Christy Mohney

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Christy became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2018. She has earned three degrees so far; an Associates in Computer Science from Monroe County Community College, A Bachelor's in Teaching from U of M Ann Arbor, and a Master's degree in Educational Technology from Madonna University. She also teaches high school math at Allen Park Public Schools. She has been teaching there for 13 years. When not working with students, she enjoys traveling, online shopping, and watching her son play football.

Cory DeGroote

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Cory is in his first year of being an online instructor at Michigan Virtual. Cory earned his bachelors degree in Physical Education and Health from Indiana State University and his masters degree in Sports Management from Western Michigan University. Cory is in his 23rd year of teaching; 2 years in Indiana, 4 years in Kalamazoo Public Schools and he currently in his 17th year of teaching Middle School Physical Education at Mattawan Consolidated School in Mattawan MI. In addition to teaching, Cory also has been coaching various sports over his 23 year teaching career (14 years as a head basketball coach, 16 as a head baseball coach, 9 years as a football coach and 8 years in volleyball). Cory absolutely loves all of the quality time he gets to spend with his family. Aside from teaching and coaching, Cory likes spending time golfing, fishing and exercising. Cory is also a college Men's basketball official.

Cynthia Duncan

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Cynthia has been teaching for Michigan Virtual since 2015 and teaching in face-to-face classrooms for over 20 years. Teaching is her passion and she enjoys teaching life science classes. Cynthia has a Bachelor of Science in biology and chemistry from Virginia Tech University and a Master of Science in biology teaching from Michigan State University. She lives in Ann Arbor with her husband, a neuroscience professor at the University of Michigan. She and her husband have three children. As a family, their favorite thing to do is go to the movies together.

Dakota Miller

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Dakota is a new teacher who hails from Grand Rapids. He teaches social studies and personal fitness courses for Michigan Virtual. Much of Dakota's spare time is spent exercising or hanging out with his dog and his girlfriend.

Dana Plaxton

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Dana has been teaching at Michigan Virtual since 2012. She enjoys getting to know students from outside of her community through her online courses. Dana has also been teaching in the business and technology department since 1999 at Williamston High School. She has bachelor's and master's degrees from Central Michigan University. Dana enjoys being active outside and participating in various sports. She has a husband and two children.

David Beyers

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

David takes his passion for personal fitness well beyond the classroom. Having taught physical education for over 15 years he has recognized the impact on lives it has including his own. David models the importance of a consistent routine of activity and healthy eating through running marathons, participating in recreational sports, coaching his kids and exercising with his wife. The energy he receives from his active lifestyle spills into his virtual and face-to-face classrooms.

Deborah Kimball

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Deb became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2018. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling from Eastern Michigan University. She has been teaching for over 32 years in a traditional classroom in Ann Arbor. Deb and her husband have three children; one of which graduated from the University of Michigan, one that graduated from Michigan State University, and the youngest currently attends Michigan State University…they are a house divided! Deb enjoys spending time working in the yard, boating, golfing, and reading a good book when not working with students.

Diane Harrington

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Diane is enthusiastic about constantly learning new things to improve her teaching. Prior to working at Michigan Virtual, Diane earned both master’s and bachelor’s degree from Northern Michigan University and is currently teaching high school business courses and serving as a co-advisor for Business Professionals of America. When not sharing her love of teaching and technology, you can find her playing golf, boating, reading and spending time with her family.

E. Anne Williston

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Anne has been an instructor for Michigan Virtual since January 2009. She thoroughly enjoys teaching business courses such as Business Ethics and Entrepreneur Business Management. In addition, she teaches face-to-face English and business classes in Jackson. Anne received a Master of Education in alternative education from Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania in 2008. She completed the requirements for English and business secondary education at Olivet College in 2003. Anne also has a Bachelor of Science in library science with a business administration minor from Illinois State University (1981). Her goals are to continue growing as an individual and a teacher. Anne writes nonfiction and poetry. She is constantly working to stretch her knowledge of technology so that she may utilize it in the best capacity when teaching.

Erin Rodger

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Erin enjoys working with kids. She has a passion for mathematics and computer science. In addition to working at Michigan Virtual, Erin is a teacher at Stoney Creek High School in Rochester. Erin has a husband and three beautiful children that keep her very busy. In her spare time, you can find her coaching and playing soccer and enjoying her children's sports.

Jennifer Cathey

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Jen loves teaching business and career courses because of their practical application in everyday life. Jen has a master’s degree in career and technical education from Western Michigan University and has taught middle and high school business and computer classes since 2005. Outside of Michigan Virtual, Jen currently works as an office coordinator at Grand Valley State University and is an avid distance runner having completed 12 marathons including three Boston marathons.

Jennifer Spencer

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Jennifer became an online instructor at Michigan Virtual in July of 2019. She teaches Business classes at Grand Blanc High School. She am married and have two teenage daughters. When she’s not working, she enjoys spending time with my family, running, reading, and playing with her dog Eva.

Kathleen Ford

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Kathleen become an online instructor at Michigan Virtual in August 2019. She earned her Master of Public Administration from Oakland University in 1991. She attended undergrad at Plymouth State College in Plymouth, NH and received her Bachelors of Science Degree in Comprehensive Business Education in May, 1980. For the past 25 years she has been teaching for the Rochester Community Schools. A highlight of her career was receiving the MICPA High School Educator of the Year award in 2016. Kathleen’s free time is filled with lots of love and laughter with her husband, 3 children and 2 grandchildren.

Katie Hansen

Instructor

Katie joined the Michigan Virtual staff as a full-time Business Instructor in 2018. She has a bachelor’s degree in business secondary education from Western Michigan University. Prior to working for Michigan Virtual, Katie spent 7 years teaching business courses in face-to-face classrooms. Outside of the classroom, Katie can almost always be found spending time with her husband, daughter and two dogs.

Kim Shawver

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Kim is determined for her students to succeed, to promote inclusion, and is an advocate for teaching process in mathematics and computer science. Her favorite phrase to use with students is “follow the process, the process works.” Kim worked previously as an engineer but has been teaching since 2005. Her educational background includes a bachelor’s in engineering and three master’s degrees, including one in teaching. When she isn’t teaching, Kim loves to read and exercise.

Kirsten Swanson

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Kirstie joined the Michigan Virtual staff as a full-time CTE Instructor in 2020. She has a bachelor’s degree in secondary business education from Ferris State University and a master’s degree in educational technology from Michigan State University. Prior to working for Michigan Virtual, Kirstie spent 25 years teaching CTE and social studies courses in a face-to-face classroom. When Kirstie is not working, she enjoys watching tennis and boating with her family in Traverse City.

Maria Wolbert

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Maria Wolbert became an online instructor for Michigan Virtual in 2018. She has 28 years of teaching experiencing in a classroom and online and has taught, facilitated and written multiple Business, Information Technology (Web Design), Career & Employment Preparation and Marketing courses. Maria earned a master’s in Career & Technical Education, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Education and a minor in English.Along with fostering dogs and volunteering at a local rescue, Maria enjoys outdoor adventures, time with family and friends, and quiet moments to read.

Melanie Depray Learst

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Melanie is an educator for Ypsilanti Public Schools and has been teaching various science classes for the last nine years. She’s been teaching at Michigan Virtual since 2012. Previous to her career in education, she worked in the IT industry and was also a certified recreational therapist. She has a master’s degree in K-12 administration, completed through Eastern Michigan University’s online program. Melanie is married and has three children and three stepchildren. She enjoys softball, camping, boating and biking and is a huge Detroit Tigers fan.

Yolanda Carter

Instructor - Career & Technical Education

Yolanda loves teaching, learning and technology, which made being an instructor at Michigan Virtual a seamless transition from teaching face-to-face to teaching online. Yolanda has over 30 years’ experience in public education, teaching family and consumer science, computer literacy and as a high school library media specialist. She earned two master’s degrees, one from University of Detroit Mercy and the other from Wayne State University. Yolanda enjoys reading, volunteering at her church, shopping, travel and spending quality time with her grandchildren!