Una escuela como ninguna otra
necesita un equipo como ningún otro.
Conoce a nuestro increÃble equipo:
administración
Education is about creating connections—and I've spent over 12 years building them. From 3-year-old classrooms to college lecture halls, every student and every experience has shaped my belief that learning is transformative when we work together with purpose and passion.
My educational journey reflects my commitment to continuous growth. I began at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities before earning my Master's in Education from Loyola University Chicago. After relocating to Green Bay in 2015, I pursued a second Master's in Applied Leadership for Teaching and Learning from UW-Green Bay. Currently, I'm exploring a PhD in educational curriculum and the AMA Montessori program.
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I bring a unique perspective to New Leaf, having experienced our community as a parent, volunteer, committee member, and board member before stepping into this leadership role. My daughters, Enzley (5K) and Penelope (2ng grade), are thriving here which has only deepened my commitment to our mission. This insider's view has shown me what makes NLPA truly special: our collective spirit, our ability to support one another, and our shared dedication to providing exceptional education for every child.
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My leadership philosophy centers on collaboration and unity. I've witnessed firsthand how powerful a learning community becomes when everyone—students, families, and staff—works together toward a common vision. I create environments where new ideas flourish, allowing every staff to bring forward their professional insights, relationships matter, and every voice is heard. Education isn't just about transferring knowledge; it's about nurturing potential and building bridges between ideas, people, and possibilities.
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When I'm not at school, you'll find me enjoying life with my husband Lucas, who is a senior wealth advisor and with our two girls. We love exploring Green Bay as a family and making memories together.
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I'm excited to walk this journey with you, side by side. If you'd like to connect, discuss your child's experience, or share your vision for our NLPA community, please don't hesitate to reach out. Let's continue building something extraordinary together.
Mrs. Calawerts
Head of School
lili.calawerts@newleafacademy.org
My name is Mike Bennett, and I am the Director of Operations and Education for New Leaf. After growing up in Beloit, WI, I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Dallas Baptist University, and 12 hours of doctoral work in Educational Leadership from the University of North Texas. I hold school administration licensure in Texas, Iowa, and Wisconsin, and I hold a Wisconsin Curriculum and Instruction license from UW-LaCrosse.
With 31 years of experience in education—ranging from teaching at the elementary level to serving as an administrator in both middle and high schools—I am equipped to manage the many facets of school programs and processes. My background allows me to support New Leaf not only in its day-to-day logistics but also in fostering a positive, productive learning environment. I value the opportunity to serve as an educational mentor to our staff and to share what I have learned with the next generation of educators. Now in my second year at New Leaf, I am energized by the progress we have made as a school and inspired by the academic, social, and emotional growth of our students.
What I love most about my current position is that no two days are ever the same. While one of my greatest strengths lies in building positive relationships with both students and staff, I also look forward to the energy of each new day—especially the joy of greeting our students as they arrive at New Leaf.
My wife, Jennifer, and I have two adult children. Morgan lives in Denver, Colorado, and works in marketing for Old Navy. Haden lives in Dallas, Texas and works as a manager and chef in the restaurant industry. Life at home is never dull thanks to Freya, our 155-pound St. Bernard puppy.
In my free time, I like to hike, cycle, snowshoe, listen to my vinyl collection, and tinker with projects around the house. Fun fact: One of my personal goals is to begin, this July, cycling daily to complete a portion of the mileage of the 2026 Tour de France.
I am looking forward to this school year and the amazing things that New Leaf has to offer. We have a great group of students, parents, faculty, and staff, and it amazes me how lucky I am to be a part of this incredible community.
Mr. Bennett
Director of Education and Operations
district support
Mrs. Freeborg
Administrative Assistant and School Secretary
Ms. Krautkramer
Administrative Assistant and School Secretary
Mrs. Gillis
Human Resources
jenna.gillis@newleafacademy.org
humanresources@newleafacademy.org
My name is Mrs. Gillis and I work in the front office supporting all of the great staff we have here at New Leaf Prep Academy in my role as Human Resources.
I have been in Human Resources Management for over 20 years in various industries including production, transportation and Health Care and have a degree in Corporate Communications from UWGB.
Once my own children started school I immediately felt education was an environment I wanted to be a part of. I am blessed to have found an opportunity in both education and Human Resources here at New Leaf Prep Academy and have come to love and appreciate the Montessori methodology and great community that we have here. Walking the hallways you can truly feel how special it is.
Outside of the school hallways I am married to my husband, Eric. I grew up on a dairy farm and Eric and I built a home on my parent's farmland which is where we are raising our daughter and son. Right now my kid's hobbies are my hobbies and I would have it no other way! We love to do all of the local things and spend a lot of time with family + cousins. Eric and I enjoy grabbing dinner together and spending time with friends.
Mrs. Kraynik
Curriculum Coordinator and Coach
I am Mrs. Kraynik, and as New Leaf’s Curriculum Coordinator and Instructional Coach, I have the joy of guiding curriculum development and instructional practices across 4K–8th grade. In this role, I focus on designing scope and sequences, ensuring high-quality Montessori alignment, and supporting teachers with the resources and lessons they need to help students thrive. Before stepping into this position, I spent four wonderful years teaching Upper Elementary at New Leaf and even had the chance to share my passion for agriculture by teaching it here as well. Altogether, I bring 8 years of teaching experience spanning through my roles in special education, middle school, and Montessori classrooms.
I hold a dual bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education from Silver Lake College of the Holy Family. In 2022, I completed my master’s credential in Upper Elementary Montessori through the Center for Guided Montessori Studies. My Montessori background, paired with creative skills in Canva and a love for big-picture projects, fuels my work in building meaningful and engaging curriculum for every level.
What excites me most in this role is watching the Montessori philosophy grow and bloom throughout each cycle—like branches of the same tree—providing students with a strong, interconnected foundation for lifelong learning.
Outside of school, I’m married to my high school sweetheart, Jake, and together we’re raising our two sons, with a third child joining our family in early 2026. When I’m not at New Leaf, you’ll find me tending our micro flower farm, exploring the outdoors with my boys, or embarking on new adventures together. With a deep-rooted passion for agriculture, I love weaving values of care, connection, and growth into both my family life and my work at New Leaf.
I look forward to continuing to grow alongside our amazing students, staff, and families as we nurture curiosity, independence, and a love of learning together.
equipo docente
I am Mrs. Neyrinck. I have been with New Leaf Prep Academy as a Primary teacher for five years. As an educator, I believe in hands-on, engaging lessons that consistently lead to measurable improvements in student performance. I am thrilled to be teaching Primary at New Leaf Prep Academy for the 2025/2026 school year.
I hold a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction for Pre-K thru 6th grade from Concordia University. I hold a Bachelors of Science in Teaching Pre-K thru 6th grade from University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and I hold an Associates from Northeastern Wisconsin Technical College- Green Bay in Early Childhood Education. I am starting my seventh teaching year in a Montessori classroom. I come with just over 16 years with Early Childhood from my Montessori focus In-home Certified childcare. My teaching style is to create a hands-on learning environment, while creating a positive and engaging environment for all students to learn and become lifelong learners and independent.
Outside of the classroom I enjoy camping, hiking, sewing and scrapbooking. On the weekends you can catch myself and husband riding around in our Jeep with the tops and doors off as much as possible.
Mrs. Neyrinck
Primary
Chamomile Community
paula.neyrinck@newleafacademy.org
My name is Mrs. Schmidt, and I’m thrilled to be continuing my journey at New Leaf as a Primary Guide. This is my third year at NLPA, and I feel incredibly grateful to be part of such a passionate and supportive community.
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I graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point with a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and a minor in Special Education. During my time at UWSP, I worked at the University’s Child Care Center, supporting children’s development through hands-on exploration and outdoor experiences. I also had the opportunity to teach at a Waldorf school in Amherst, where we focused on nurturing the whole child through movement, art, and nature. That experience solidified my dream of teaching in a school that embraces a holistic approach—and New Leaf has made that dream a reality. I bring to New Leaf a deep love for child-led learning, hands-on exploration, and fostering independence. One of my proudest accomplishments during my time here has been receiving Golden Apple Award nominations two years in a row.
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Outside the classroom, I find joy in spending time in nature—whether it’s hiking, camping, canoeing, or mushroom hunting with my two dogs by my side. My husband and I are currently restoring our home from the 1800s—both rewarding and full of surprises. Having grown up on a farm in Minnesota, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, so we’re working towards creating our own little urban farm, complete with chickens and a garden. I enjoy crafting for my small business, Jonquil Junkers, and DIY projects that add a personal touch to our home or classroom. These hobbies keep me grounded, inspired, and always learning—just like teaching.
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It’s a privilege to be here, working alongside such a dedicated team and building a lifelong love of learning for our students. I’m looking forward to another year filled with growth, connection, and joy!
Mrs. Schmidt
Primary
Jonquil Community
baylee.schmidt@newleafacademy.org
Hello NLPA Families,
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I am Ms. Justine Konopacki, and I have the joy of serving as the 4K
Emergent Primary Teacher at New Leaf Prep Academy. This is my second
year teaching, and I am so excited to continue growing alongside my
students and our community. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Early
Childhood Education and Special Education from the University of
Wisconsin–Stevens Point.
I am passionate about supporting each child as they learn and grow at
their own pace. I believe children thrive through curiosity, exploration, and
discovery, and I encourage them to take ownership of their learning while
guiding them to build confidence and independence.
I am originally from Stevens Point, WI, where I grew up with three younger
sisters who shaped me into the person I am today. Outside of the
classroom, I enjoy camping, spending time outdoors, shopping, and being
with my boyfriend, friends, and family.
I look forward to building strong connections with families and creating a
positive, engaging year of growth for your child!
Ms. Konopacki
Emergent Primary
Iris Community
justine.konopacki@newleafacademy.org
Ms. Hoffman
Primary Support
Ms.Spoerl
Emergent Primary Support
equipo docente
Hello!
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My name is Mrs. Tonya Vanevenhoven. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work for NLPA since the school first opened in 2021. This is my fifth year working in the Lower Elementary Studio. I received a Bachelor of Science in Education from UW-Oshkosh. My educational experience has spanned over twenty years, from early childhood through sixth grade. My hobbies include hanging out with my husband, children, and grandchildren, walking my husky Pearl, camping, organic gardening, and canning.
Reading is my absolute favorite subject to teach, and I have a tiny weakness for buying books for my studio. My grandmother taught me to overcome my reluctance to do fractions through cooking. The hands-on materials created by Dr. Montessori are elegantly designed, and the purposeful work time allows the child to absorb concepts at their own pace. My unique teaching tip is to integrate art into all subject areas as cross-curricular planning aligns well with Dr. Montessori’s scientific method. I believe in NLPA because of its mission to educate the whole child. Each child is unique and must realize that their potential is available for them to discover.
Fun facts: My favorite book genre is mythology and fantasy books. If we have a snow day, I can be found in my pajamas baking bread and watching any of the Harry Potter or Percy Jackson movies.
Mrs. Vanevenhoven
Lower Elementary
Lavender Community
tonya.vanevenhoven@newleafacademy.org
Hello!
My name is Ms. Hoppman, and I am joining New Leaf Prep Academy as a Lower Elementary Teacher. I recently graduated from UW-Stevens Point in August of 2025 with a double major in Elementary and Early Childhood Education. I completed my student teaching in sixth grade, third grade, and kindergarten at Roosevelt Elementary School in Plover, WI. It was a fantastic experience to have the opportunity to join such a diverse range of grade levels before earning my degree!
It is my goal for each of my students to feel welcome and valued in my studio. I approach teaching with a kind, positive, and direct mindset. A saying I like to use, which one of my professors taught me, is “hearts-on, hands-on, heads-on.” Teaching is such a beautiful thing that I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to do it every day.
I grew up and graduated from Ashwaubenon, WI. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my sisters, going camping, or watching any football game! Another one of my hobbies is dancing, which I also currently teach in Pulaski.
I’m very excited to join the NLPA community! Each day, I can’t believe that I get to be a small part of something so amazing and unique.
Ms. Hoppman
Lower Elementary
Magnolia Community
jaelyn.hoppman@newleafacademy.org
Greetings! I am Mrs. Schabacker and this is my 5th year as a studio teacher at New Leaf Prep Academy. I have adored spending these last years amongst this strong, loving and adaptive community. I feel honored to have this school as a part of my personal timeline as I look back on my journey to get here. I have worked with children and wanted to teach for as long as I can remember…Growing up, I had a very nature-based approach to my own education which inspired me to get involved in teaching others about our environment in addition to our core studies. After graduating from UW-Stevens Point, I was eager to get started with my degree. As luck would have it, my now-husband found a job in Green Bay and we relocated here…which led me straight to NLPA. I feel incredibly privileged to be able to witness the quiet, powerful moments when a student’s eyes light up with that special “Oh, I get it now!” - this moment is where a new idea blossoms and a spark of confidence ignites. Each work rug that is rolled out is an invitation for these students to discover another piece of our world, but also what their place is within it. Within these walls, it is all made possible. Outside of school, I love spending time with my family and our German Shepherd (Sego) and tabby cay (Zeller). I also enjoy participating in anything outdoors - but especially downhill skiing. I grew up in an artistic family, too, so painting and drawing are also some of my favorites!
Here’s to fostering a life-long love of learning. We hope to see you soon!
Mrs. Schabacker
Lower Elementary
Yarrow Community
jessica.schabacker@newleafacademy.org
Hello NLPA Community and Families,
My name is Ms. Alyssa Bentley, and I am thrilled to be a Lower Elementary teacher at New Leaf Prep Academy this year! This is my second year teaching and my second year at NLPA. I’m so excited to continue this amazing journey of learning, growth, and fun together. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh with a Bachelor of Science in Education.
Throughout high school and college, I had the opportunity to work in a variety of classrooms, ranging from 4K through 4th grade, which helped shape my passion for working with young learners.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, relaxing with a good book, listening to music, and traveling. Some of my favorite hobbies include painting, drawing, photography, baking, and shopping. I look forward to the journey ahead, getting to know each of you, and making this school year a great one!
Ms. Bentley
Lower Elementary
Orchid Community
alyssa.bentley@newleafacademy.org
Hi NLPA Families,
I am Ms. Harhay and I have been at New Leaf Prep Academy as a lower elementary teacher. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in May of 2024 with a degree in Elementary Education. I am also currently taking the Montessori Education course to become a certified Montessori instructor.
I love teaching at New Leaf because I get to teach in a fun, hands-on way that the kids love. I enjoy watching students teach each other and learn from each other, and it is a great environment to be a part of. I was nominated for a Golden Apple teaching award last year which was exciting, my goal is to become a better teacher each year and always be learning.
I live in Green Bay, Wisconsin with my boyfriend Evan and my dog Moose. We are big Packer and Brewer fans. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, kayaking, and going on walks with my family.
Ms. Harhay
Lower Elementary
Sunflower Community
desiree.harhay@newleafacademy.org
Ms. Adams
Lower Elementary Support
Ms. Hoppman
Lower Elementary Support
equipo docente
Mr. Rickert
Upper Elementary
Tundra Community
collin.rickert@newleafacademy.org
Hello! I’m Mr. Rickert and I am so pleased that you are here, welcome to the website! I am currently in my sixth year of teaching, and my fifth here at this wonderful school. I am what we refer to as an “OG”, because I have been here since year one. The first two years I was our Fifth Grade teacher. Then, as we adapted more and more, and transitioned to mixed-aged cycles, my role changed to one of the Upper Elementary (4th-6th grade) teachers.
I received my Bachelors of Science degree in Education at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. While studying there, I also achieved a minor degree in English. I am very fortunate to have been a part of the English department’s inaugural group to study abroad in Oxford, UK at the University of Oxford. Those are memories I cherish fondly.
I fell in love with teaching because of my dad. When I started college I had a million and a half ideas running through my head. I wanted to be a General Manager of a professional sports team, one January semester of Microeconomics squashed that idea. Then, I thought about Sports Journalism. I was always credited as being a decent writer, plus I love sports, so I thought maybe. Though, UWGB’s Journalism program wasn’t entirely straightforward, so I wasn’t positive. Teaching had always been in the background though. My high school English teacher was a huge motivator for me in teaching and in English, so the idea was there. Plus, on my dad’s side of the family, we produce a lot of teachers. When I came home on weekends or school breaks, I would go visit my dad’s classroom. At the time, he was a Fourth Grade teacher, so I would go visit for a while and hang out. I saw his passion. I saw how excited he got, the way he would move around the classroom. That’s when I knew, this is it. I am not built for a desk job. Paperwork and numbers are not my friend. Helping others? Building hope in people? That’s more my style.
I bring that style with me any day that I can. I sat in a Montessori Conference once where the man teaching suggested we teach to our 10-year old self, and I’m proud to say that I do. I was never the best student. I was average, B’s and C’s depending on the subject. I did well with writing, and I struggled with math. I can recount many hours spent at my kitchen table doing math homework, starting from the age of 10 and on. I would sit for hours staring at my textbook, not a clue in the world what I was doing. I
would get so angry that I would throw my textbooks, my notebooks, my pencils. My parents would offer to help, but then immediately be unable to. It was a struggle, to say the least. This is why math is my absolute favorite subject to teach. When I teach these kids, I see me. I see 12-year old me sitting down completely exhausted and confused. I teach to that kid. My goal in math isn’t to get you to like it, it’s to help you not hate it. Math isn’t about numbers, it’s about solving problems, and the first problem we’re going to solve is finding a way that helps you learn best. That’s what is so great about the Montessori Philosophy. I, as the guide, have the ability to help and find you, the student, the way that helps you best. I am granted the freedoms to explore, so that we can push you to your absolute potential. This is why I love what I do.
My name is Ariana Brown, and I’m thrilled to be at New Leaf Prep Academy as an upper Elementary teacher! I’m a huge fan of the Montessori learning style and the incredible achievements students can make with it.
Here are some of my favorite things to do when I’m not in school:
* Spending quality time with my family and friends.
* Experimenting with new recipes and baking delicious treats.
* Playing with my furry friends, Maple (the dog) and Apollo (the cat).
I’m super excited to start another year at New Leaf and work with such an amazing group of students. I can’t wait to see each student grow and learn in all areas of study, and to build lasting connections and memories together!
Ms. Brown
Upper Elementary
Hydrangea Community
ariana.brown@newleafacademy.org
I am Elijah Mojzych and I have been at New Leaf Prep Academy since 2023, beginning as the resident substitute, and am now stepping into a new role as upper elementary teacher. Within that initial role, I was given a wonderful opportunity to receive hands-on experience with the Montessori curriculum and philosophy, and to build meaningful relationships with the students and staff alike. There are few things more rewarding than hearing a former student you subbed for scream, “Mr. M!” as they sprint toward you from across the playground to say hi.
While this is my first year being a studio teacher, I have spent over six years in a mentorship role in youth programs, summer camps, and have conducted a summer frisbee class at Bay Port High School for the last three years. I hold a Bachelor of Science in education from the University of Wisconsin-Bay.
My goal as an educator is to see growth in the whole child, preparing them for what's next in their life, whatever that may look like. As a person, you never stop growing, and the way learning is presented here at NLPA, fostering independence, feeding curiosity, building respect, and cultivating compassion, makes me grateful that the children here get to be a part of it.
When I’m not at work, I’m spending time with my friends and family, singing and playing guitar, playing frisbee golf, watching my favorite shows with my wonderful wife, Marcy, serving at my local church, watching the Packers, and eating delicious food. Marcy and I have no children (yet), but we have two lovable kitties who keep us company and demand treats.
Thank you for partnering with us in your children's education. We will do our best to see them be the best versions of themselves as we prepare them for the future.
Mr. Mojzych
Upper Elementary
Dill Community
elijah.mojzych@newleafacademy.org
Ms. Avery
Upper Elementary Support
da'nisha.avery@newleafacademy.org
equipo docente
Hello NLPA families!
My name is Lee Vanevenhoven and I am very excited to meet you. I am the Lower Secondary Guide at New Leaf Prep Academy. This is my 4th year with New Leaf and and will be guiding 7th and 8th grade learners in the North Building Studios. I came to NLPA with vast and varied experiences which I can’t wait to share with you and your children. I graduated from Lawrence University in 1990 and have since then taught middle school English Language Arts, Social Studies, Mathematics and Science, as well as High School Mathematics. I also owned and operated a hardware store for many years before following my passion for teaching. I am eager to continue using the nature based Montessori curriculum to explore the potential of my students as we learn together how our world works, and what our place in it is. Thank you for entrusting your child’s future to all of us at New Leaf. I am privileged to be a part of the team that will help to grow a community of learners capable of amazing things. When I am not in the classroom you might find me straw bale gardening with Mrs. V., camping, working on projects around the house, or playing guitar, but most often I’ll be with family. I cherish any time I can get with my children and grandchildren. I am looking forward to working with you all!
Mr. Vanevenhoven
Lower Secondary
Bacopa Community
lee.vanevenhoven@newleafacademy.org
I am Mrs. VandenBush and I have been at New Leaf Prep Academy in various roles over the past couple years, but currently am an Educational Support in the Lower Secondary studio with Mr. Vanevenhoven this year. I was excited to join Mr. Vanevenhoven and his students this year after working alongside him through my spring semester practicum last school year. I hold an Associates Degree in Foundations of Teacher Education that I obtained in May. I am furthering my education and working towards my Bachelors Degree next! I am enrolled in UW-Whitewater through their online program. The students in this studio are so interesting to work with as they become very independent and self-driven at these ages, while also being very social with their classmates. The connections I make with the students are so special and meaningful to me - I love seeing each of them grow throughout the school year. I am so happy to be here helping support Mr. Vanevenhoven (and other staff) along with helping the students every day.
Within my experience here at NLPA, I also enjoy that my own children are here as well! My husband, Jason, and I have 4 kids; they range in age from 6-13. We’ve been here since the inception of NLPA and have enjoyed every year of growth they’ve had. Seeing this growth is what inspired me to go to school myself to contribute in a deeper way here at NLPA! We enjoy spending family time together as much as possible and our time is spent outside, with sports/dance, sprucing up our home/yard, and going on adventures. Outside of family time, I also volunteer through CASA of Brown County as a CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocate) where I spend time each week going to see 5 foster children in 2 different homes and making sure all their needs are met and advocating on their behalf - and being a positive and consistent adult in their lives. Other than these things, I enjoy crafting, doing logic puzzles to keep my brain sharp (hopefully!), cooking, baking, and making some natural products for keeping healthy and sharing in the community.
I am happy to be here at NLPA every single day and seeing how this community grows together with the intentional work of some many good people - parents, staff, and students combined!
Mrs. Vandenbush
Lower Secondary Support
equipo docente
I am Mrs. Kleczewski, the Studio Arts Teacher in the Wildflower Studio. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay with a Bachelor of Arts-emphasis in Art Education, and minors in Psychology and Human Development. My background is primarily early education, where I have taught for over 15 years.
When I'm not in the classroom, you can find me in my garden. I'm a lover of nature, and enjoy growing a variety of plants both indoors and out! I also love spending time with my husband and our three children. We love camping, reading, going to rummage sales, family movie nights, Christmas, and of course doing art projects together.
I wish to enlighten students to creativity in a way they may have never seen or thought of. A world in which involves spontaneity, mark making, mistakes, and maybe even stick people. Art education has the power to increase creativity, critical thinking, as well as personal and emotional development, all of which are necessary components for a forward-thinking, productive and successful society. It is creative people, ideas, thoughts, and dreams that build the future. I can't wait to share my studio with your artist and see where creativity leads us.
Mrs. Kleczewski
Art Teacher
kayla.kleczewski@newleafacademy.org
Mrs. Hucek
Spanish Teacher
elke.hucek@newleafacademy.org
Greetings!
My name is Elke Hucek. I recently joined the staff of New Leaf as a Spanish teacher. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish Education from Wisconsin Lutheran College and many years of experience in the field of education, both as a teacher and as a bilingual paraprofessional for several Wisconsin school districts.
Children enjoy learning a second language at a young age and sharing their knowledge with others. I believe the best way to learn a second language is similar to the way they learned their first language, by listening first, then showing their understanding through action, and finally speaking. A strategy I enjoy using is TPR (Total Physical Response). This is a technique in which the teacher introduces students to commands in the target language while also performing the command. The students learn to perform the commands and the teacher adds more commands gradually and students show understanding by simply obeying the commands. Eventually, students are able to command others in the target language.
I enjoy many things, including cooking, reading, singing, watching movies, seeing my adult children as much as possible, hanging out with my awesome husband of 31 years, and DOGS!!!! I have two crazy, adorable dogs and love to meet and learn about other people’s dogs. Dogs are amazing. I love dogs. If you would like to contact me please feel free to send me and email at elke.hucek@newleafacademy.org
Hello Everyone!
I am Mr. Jolly and I am joining New Leaf Prep Academy as a Physical Education Teacher. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire with a bachelor's degree in Physical Education with minors in Adaptive Physical Education, Health, and Coaching. I am from Green Bay, Wisconsin and grew up just a few miles from NLPA.
Growing up I always loved sports. I played almost every sport I could and continue to follow along with many professional sports. I began junior coaching throughout high school and fell in love with working with younger students to help them develop skills, be active, engage in hobbies, and find a passion for physical activity, which ultimately led to me becoming a physical education teacher. Outside of school I love to spend time with my family, sitting on the pontoon boat soaking up the sun, or golfing with friends.
This is my first year at New Leaf Prep Academy and my first year as a physical education teacher. I am excited to work with all students, families, and staff to continue to develop a physical education program that benefits all students, allows them to be active throughout their school day and find a passion for a sport or activity they can participate in outside of Phy Ed class.
Mr. Jolly
Physical Education Teacher
logan.jolly@newleafacademy.org
academic support team
Autobiography coming soon!
Mrs. Kallman
Math Interventionist
megan.kallman@newleafacademy.org
Autobiography coming soon!
Mrs. Olson
Reading Interventionist
tanya.olson@newleafacademy.org
Hello NLPA,
I am Ms.Schomaker and I am joining New Leaf Prep Academy as a Reading
Interventionalist. I obtained a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from
the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. I was born in Norway, Europe, and
moved to the U.S. at a young age. I come from a close-knit family with two
sisters and one brother, and they’ve always been a big part of my support
system.
Growing up, I struggled with reading myself, which is what inspired me to help
students who need a little extra support. I know how discouraging it can feel, and
I want to be the encouraging voice that helps students gain confidence and grow
a love for reading.
In my work, I focus on creating a welcoming, supportive environment where
students feel safe to take risks and learn at their own pace. I use hands-on,
engaging strategies to make reading feel fun and achievable.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with animals, experimenting in the
kitchen with new recipes, and enjoying time with family and friends. Helping
students discover the joy of reading and watching their growth is one of the most
rewarding parts of my job.
Ms. Schomaker
Reading Intervention Support
cassandra.schomaker@newleafacademy.org
Special education team
Hello NLPA Families!
My name is Ms. B (Ms. Bentley), and I am the Special Education Teacher here at New Leaf Prep Academy! I graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh with a Bachelor of Science in Education and hold a Special Education Cross-Categorical (K–12)
license. While I had the pleasure of being at NLPA for a few months last year, I’m excited to begin my first full school year with the team. I look forward to getting to know my students better and building strong relationships within our school community. Throughout my teacher preparation program, I had the opportunity to gain hands-on clinical experience working with students from elementary through high school in a variety of educational settings. I worked with students with a wide range of disabilities, including those with learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disorders, autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities, and other health impairments. These experiences helped me develop a strong foundation in differentiated instruction, behavior support strategies, and inclusive teaching practices. I’m passionate about creating a supportive, engaging, and accessible learning environment that helps all students grow both academically and socially. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy listening to music, reading, drawing, crafting, and taking road trips with my family. I’m excited to support my students in reaching their goals and to be part of their growth this year—let’s make it a meaningful and successful school year together!
Ms. B
Special Education Teacher
ariana.bentley@newleafacademy.org
Mrs. Schultz
Special Education
Support
ashely.schultz@newleafacademy.org
I believe every child has their own path to success, and one of my favorite parts of this work is guiding them along the way. With six years of experience supporting diverse learners, I’ve learned that growth happens best when students feel encouraged, supported, and celebrated for who they are. I love finding creative ways to make learning fun and accessible—whether it’s cheering on small victories, turning challenges into opportunities, or sharing in those big “aha!” moments. Watching students build confidence and independence inspires me every single day.
I am married and the proud mom of four fantastic children, two of whom attend NLPA. Our family also includes two lovable dogs—a yellow Lab and an Australian Shepherd—who keep life extra lively. Together, our family enjoys going on road trips and discovering new places. I believe that joy and curiosity fuel everything we do—inside and outside the classroom.
Ms Castillo
Special Education Support
andrea.castillo@newleafacademy.org
Hello! My name is Andrea Castillo, and I am excited to begin my second year as a Special Education Paraprofessional at New Leaf Prep Academy. I have the privilege of supporting students with a wide range of special needs, helping each child grow in confidence and independence.
I earned my Associate’s Degree in Arts and Sciences from the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay in 2024. Over the past four years, I’ve worked with autistic children across the spectrum, building a strong foundation in child-led learning and social-emotional development. My approach centers on curiosity and connection. I love creating hands-on opportunities that invite students to think critically and care for their world.
When I’m not at school, you can usually find me with my family and my two cats, Lucia and Benji, or enjoying yoga, summertime outdoor adventures, reading, knitting, and a good cup of coffee. Nature and art are constant sources of inspiration for me.
I’m excited to continue collaborating with families and educators to nurture every child’s natural love of learning and help each one discover their true voice.
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Custodial Team
Mrs. Ellertson
Custodian
alyssa.ellertson@newleafacademy.org
nutrition Team
