St. Anne School - Seattle WA

St. Anne School has talented and dedicated staff that is deeply committed to their chosen vocation.

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"It is not how much you do, but how much love put into the doing that matters."
- Mother Teresa

Staff Directory
The school phone is 206-282-3538. Faculty extensions and email are listed below:

Mary Sherman
Principal
At St. Anne since 1992
Education: BA Education, Seattle University; MS Educational Administration, National University; K-12 Teaching Certificate; Washington State Principal Certification
Experience: Prior to becoming principal of St. Anne School I was assistant principal here for 17 years. I also taught at St. Mark School in North Seattle for 10 years.
Passion/Interests: My husband and I have 4 grown children, all of whom are graduates of St. Anne School. We also have a daughter-in-law and a beautiful new granddaughter. In my spare time, I enjoy running and spending time with my family.

Heidi Austin
Vice Principal, Grade 8 Algebra
At St. Anne since 1998
Education: BA Biology, Gonzaga University; Teaching Certificate, University of Washington; Professional Certification, Antioch University; MA Ed. Administration, Grand Canyon University.
Experience: I began teaching at St. Anne School in 1998. I spent three years as the K-8 Art teacher and K-5 Hands-on-Science teacher. I began teaching Algebra my second year. From 2002-2006 I taught middle school Math and was the 7th grade homeroom teacher. Since 2006, I have been teaching middle school Science.
Passion/Interests: I love working with middle school students and to be part of a learning community. I have a deep interest in Science, Math, and Art and I like to see and find the interconnections between them. One of my favorite quotes is from Richard Feynman: “The world looks so different after learning science. For example, trees are made of air, primarily. When they are burned, they go back to air, and in the flaming heat is released the flaming heat of the sun which was bound in to convert the air into tree. And in the ash is the small remnant of the part which did not come from air, that came from the solid earth, instead. These are beautiful things, and the content of science is wonderfully full of them. They are very inspiring, and they can be used to inspire others.” My husband and I have four sons and enjoy our family time with them. When I have extra time I like cooking, getting involved in creative activities and spending time outdoors.

Laura Bonney
Administrative Assistant
At St. Anne School since 1999
Experience: Prior to joining St. Anne School, I was the office manager at Restaurants Unlimited corporate headquarters for ten years. I was lucky enough to join the company just as the Cinnabon World Famous Cinnamon Roll products were "rolling" out. Someone had to taste test them!
Passion/Interests: My husband and I each have adult daughters. He and I enjoy outdoor camping and sports, especially in the fall and winter months. I love working in a Catholic environment. Working at St. Anne School keeps me mindful of what it means to be Catholic and I'm reminded daily (by the students) of how I should demonstrate my faith. I have completed the Catechist Certification Program with the hope of teaching sacramental preparation to the 2nd grade students.

Pat Covich
Office Assistant
At St. Anne School since 2009
Education: BS, Business Administration; City University

Experience: Prior to coming to St. Anne School, I was a Human Resource Manager with 34 years at the Seattle School District.

Passion/Interests: I’m thrilled to be a team member at St. Anne School with such a professional and caring staff and community. This part-time retirement position enables me to continue in the educational environment with youth who are excited about learning, and playing a part in shaping the future leaders of tomorrow. I am a graduate from St. Anne School. I’m a certified Archdiocese trainer with the “Called to Protect” program for adults and youth. I enjoy traveling and learning about other cultures and meeting people around the world. I feel so fortunate to be retired which enables me to spend time at my cottage on the Sound, time with family and friends, reading, walking/playing with my dog, enjoying water sports and researching my family genealogy.

Pam Sturgeon
Grade 8 LA and Literature, Grade 6-8 Social Studies
At St. Anne from 1995-2004 returned since 2007
Education: BS Psychology and Masters in Public Administration, University of Washington; M.A. in Psychology, Humboldt State University, CA; Principal Credentials, Seattle University.
Experience: I have taught 5th – 8th grade at St. Anne School. My career prior to education was in civil rights-EEOC, and the Northwest Women’s Law Center. I have taught all grades K-8, except for 2nd grade and have five years in public schools and over 10 years in Catholic schools.
Passion/Interests: My passion is to further quality Catholic education, service outreach, and to open student’s minds to the greater world around them. I have two grown children who graduated from Catholic Schools-Blanchet and Kennedy. In my free time I enjoy family, reading, traveling, volunteering for political campaigns and gardening.

Grade 6 and 7 LA and Literature and Grade 6 Religion

Returned to St. Anne in 2010

Education: B.Ed Elementary Education and B.A. French, Seattle University; M.Ed. Curriculum and Instruction, University of West Florida; Principal's Credential, Auburn University at Montgomery; Waldorf Foundation Year Certificate, Sound Circle Center; TCRG Credential, Irish Dance Commission, Dublin, Ireland

Experience: Currently, I am the long-term substitute teacher for 6th and 8th grade Language Arts, 6th Grade Literature and Faith Formation, and Resource Support for the middle school. I had the pleasure of teaching Grade 2 here, several years ago, for 5 years. I have taught all grades from preK-8 and some highschool French and History in parochial, private, and public schools all over the U.S. I have been teaching and learning for 25 years.

Passion/Interests: I am a product of Catholic education here in the Pacific Northwest, having graduated from St. Anne School, Holy Names Academy, and Seattle University. I am delighted to be here and look forward to reconnecting with the community. When I am not teaching, I enjoy exploring historically significant places, camping, reading, and taking long walks with my puppy, Porter.

Lisette Nenninger
Grades 6 and 7th Math and Grade 6-8 Science
At St. Anne since 2011
Education:

Paola Womac
Grade 7 and 8 Religion, Stewardship, Pastoral Assistant for Community Involvement
At St. Anne since 2006
Education: BA Economics and Human Services, Villanova University; MA Education, University of Notre Dame
Experience: I have taught in Philadelphia, Los Angeles, San Diego and Seattle during my teaching tenure.
Passion/Interests: I have a passion for teaching Catholic Tradition and Scripture to middle school students. I enjoy free time shared with my children, husband, friends and family, as well as time spent traveling and reading great books.

Monika Dempsey
Grade 5
At St. Anne since 2007
Education: BA Elementary Education with endorsement in Middle School Mathematics and minor in Spanish, University of Portland; Teaching Certificate in Oregon and Washington.
Experience: This is my 4th year at St. Anne. As a product of Catholic education, I strongly believe in the importance of teaching mind, body and spirit and the positive effects a Catholic school environment has on each student. In addition to teaching, I'm one of the co-chairs of Green Team and the pianist for the Children's Choir at St. Anne.
Passion/Interests: I love helping kids meet their personal goals and pushing them to try new things. There is nothing better than watching someone's face light up with comprehension! When I am not teaching you can find me playing with my Godson, camping or hiking, trying new recipes, or completing Soduko on my phone.

Sean Haffey
Grade 4
At St. Anne since 2011
Education: BA History, Gonzaga University; M.Ed University of Notre Dame

Experience: I taught 5th grade in Compton, CA for two years.

Passion/Interest: My passions flow from a love of learning. I am at my best when involved in service to the poor and working with students who lack confidence at school or see it as an intimidating place. I enjoy free time spent with my family especially my older brothers, as well as running and reading great books.

Britta Banchero
Grade 3
At St. Anne since 2010
Education: BA Communication, University of Washington; MA Teaching with endorsement in Elementary Education, Seattle Univeristy.
Experience: I completed my certification and Masters in Teaching degree in the Spring of 2009. I have been working as a long-term substitute throughout the Archdiocese for the past year. I was fortunate to work with Mrs. Sachwitz during her maternity leave, so I feel blessed to be a part of such a caring, dynamic and loving learning community here at St. Anne. I am really excited about teaching 3rd grade!
Passion/Interests: I am a Seattle local, born and raised. My passion for teaching stems from my love for learning! As a product of Catholic schools, I am looking forward to educating the whole person and sharing my faith with my students. In addition to teaching, I enjoy spending time with my husband Stephan, my black lab Kaya and my large extended family. I also enjoy playing soccer, skiing and reading.

Meghan Miller
Grade 2
At St. Anne since 2006
Education: BA Diversified Liberal Arts, University of San Diego
Experience: Over 5 years of elementary school teaching experience.
Passion/Interests: My goal as an educator is to facilitate and promote the student’s natural curiosity and drive to learn. I believe in supporting students in finding intrinsic value in the process of questioning and discovery. By developing their higher order thinking skills, students will be able to make each learning experience their own. The classroom environment should be one of safety, both physical and emotional, so that as students take risks academically they know there will be a soft place to land. In order to maintain this atmosphere, it is crucial that communication between the classroom and the home is ongoing and constructive. We are working as a team to help your student become a thoughtful and confident member of the Catholic community at St. Anne as well as their larger community.

Michaela Soroczak
Grade 2 Instructional Aide
At St. Anne since 2006
Education: University of Washington
Experience: I have been worked as a teaching assistant at St. Anne for the past couple of years.
Passion/Interests: I was born and raised in Seattle and am married with a little girl. I feel so lucky to be part of the St. Anne community. I love working with children and want the children to have the same positive experience that I had at Catholic schools. In my spare time I love to be with my family, paint and read.

Katy Gibson
Grade 1
At St. Anne since 2002
Education: BA Elementary Education, Seattle Pacific University; Masters in Reading & Literacy, City University
Experience: I am in my 4th year of teaching Pre-K here at at St. Anne.
Passion/Interests: My husband and I love living and working on Queen Anne and strive to be active members of the community. We love to stay fit and you find me most afternoons at the park, zoo, or museums. I have one son and we welcomed our daughter, Maggie, in April 2010. My future goals are traveling and selling more of my oil paintings.

Michele Betts
Grade 1 Instructional Aide
At St. Anne since 1996

Education: I attended Catholic Schools K-12.
Experience: I began working at St. Anne as a Kindergarten Aide and after a three year break, I returned as the 1st Grade Aide.
Passion/Interests: I have four grown children, four granddaughters and two grandsons. In my spare time I love to be with my family, reading, and traveling with my husband of 38 years.

Traci Sauvage
Kindergarten
At St. Anne since 2007
Education: BA Education, Eastern Oregon University; MA Creative Arts in Learning, Cambridge MA.
Experience: I have been teaching in the Catholic Schools for over 13 years. My experience ranges from Pre-K through 4th grade.
Passion/Interests: I love teaching! Teaching is definitely my passion as well as my two boys. Our family is often found outside playing baseball or jumping on the trampoline. We also travel lots to Wisconsin and Alaska to visit friends and family.

Molly Thole
Kindergarten Instructional Aide
At St. Anne since 2006
Education: BA Criminal Justice - Seattle University
Experience: I taught preschool at St. John school for 5 years prior to coming to the St. Anne Kindergarten program.
Passion/Interests: I was born and raised in Seattle, going to Catholic schools from Kindergarten through college. I am a graduate of Bishop Blanchet, as well as, Seattle University. I love working at St. Anne; it is an amazing community! I truly love Kindergarten! I think it is the perfect age to teach. They are just gaining some independence and they are so ready to learn! The growth we see from the start of the year to the end is amazing! My husband and I have 2 beautiful children. I am an avid reader. I love going to the beach or the pool, and I enjoy playing tennis.

Pre-Kindergarten

Rosie Daudt
Pre-Kindergarten
At St. Anne since 2011
Education: AA Elementary Education - University of Phoenix

Experience: I just celebrated my tenth year working with elementary-age children in a variety of settings. I was a Kindergarten Assistant at St. Anne for five years and then a Preschool Assistant, art teacher, and tutor at St. Madeleine Sophie School in Bellevue, Washington for five years before returning as a teacher in the Preschool classroom at St. Anne this year.

Passion/Interest: I became a teacher because I love to teach. I love to instill a love of learning in young kids and watch as they learn and grow over the course of the year. That is the biggest reward. I was born and raised in Montana, going to Catholic schools from first grade to eighth grade. My two children went to Catholic schools attending St. John school and graduating from Bishop Blanchet High School. I feel fortunate to return to St. Anne; it is an amazing, nurturing community! In my spare time I enjoy taking long walks with my dog, Brewskie, and spending time with my family and friends.

Erica Barry
Pre-Kindergarten Aide
At St. Anne since 2003
Education: BA Psychology, M.Ed. School Counseling, Seattle Pacific University
Experience: I am excited to begin my 6th year working in the Pre-K classroom at St. Anne! I have been working with elementary-age children in a variety of settings over the past decade, from teaching and counseling, to leading Children's Church and Kid's Choir.
Passion/Interests: In addition to my work in elementary education, I love world travel, collecting antique children's books, and spending time with my wonderful husband!

Kacy McNaull
Pre-Kindergarten Aide
At St. Anne since 2009

Education: BA English - Providence College

Experience: After college, I spent 12 years in the fields of Advertising and Technology Sales. I found my new passion for Pre-K after spending time as a long-term substitute at St. Anne. I am excited to be returning for my second year as the Pre-K Aide.

Passion/Interests: I was born and raised in Albany, NY and received a Catholic education from Kindergarten through college. I moved to Seattle in 1997 and joined St. Anne Parish the same year. My husband, Peter, and I have 2 sons currently attending St. Anne School. We love to spend time outdoors - biking, hiking and skiing.

Shannon Schuler
Technology Curriculum & Integration
At St. Anne since 2003
Education: BS Speech and Hearing Sciences, University of Washington; Teaching Certificate and MA in Teaching, City University with a K-8 endorsement.
Experience: During my time at St. Anne I have taught 6th, 7th and 8th grade. While a 6th grade teacher, I have taught all subject areas. Since then, I have happily found myself teaching 6th grade Math and 7th grade Language Arts and Literature. My technological responsibilities have continued to grow over the years. I not only help troubleshoot technological problems, I also help teachers integrate technology into the instruction and assessment of core curricula areas.
Passion/Interests: I am a product of Seattle Catholic schools attending St. Catherine in Maple Leaf, Christ the King in Greenwood and graduating high school from Bishop Blanchet. I enjoy teaching at St. Anne School because of its commitment to excellence and its focus on educating the whole student. When I am not teaching I enjoy cooking, reading, and attending and/or watching sporting events with my husband. "The object of education is to prepare the young to educate themselves throughout their lives." - Robert Maynard Hutchins

Kristin Earnst
Art Specialist
At St. Anne since 2008
Education: BA in English, cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa, University of Washington; Teaching Certificate Program at UW with endorsements 4-12 English, 4-12 Language Arts, and K-12 Art.
Experience: Since 2008, I have taught K-5 Art at St. Anne. I also teach at the Jewish Day School in Bellevue. Prior to teaching art, I taught English for 11 years at Eastside Catholic High School.
Passion/Interests: After the wandering childhood I experienced in a Navy family, I settled in Ballard 20 years ago and would happily spend the rest of my life there! I love all kinds of art making, most frequently working in charcoal or oil paints. I’ve spent summers painting in southern France and in the Skagit Valley—both equally beautiful settings--or taking classes at the Frye Art Museum or Pratt Fine Arts Center.

Pilar Griffin
Spanish
At St. Anne since 2006
Education: MA Education, UNED-Costa Rica; MA Curriculum and Instruction, Seattle University; MA International Law, UN-UPEACE
Experience: I have taught since 1992 at the preschool, elementary, middle school, and university level in Costa Rica and the US. I have also worked as a volunteer in India and South East Asia. I have provided translation services to UN organizations regarding women, children and indigenous rights.
Passion/Interests: I love to teach, bringing real issues into the classroom. I enjoy working at St. Anne School because the students are very respectful and eager to learn. I love to travel, to be part of the Peace and Justice commission in my parish and, most important, to spend time with my husband and children.

Kathleen Mills
Music
At St. Anne since 2000
Education: Bachelor of Music in Composition and Arranging, Combs College of Music.
Experience: I studied with composer Romeo Cascarino and concert pianist Susan Starr in Philadelphia, and with Broadway conductor Lehman Engel at BMI's Musical Theater Workshop in New York City. My performing experience includes singing and dancing in several musicals, notably 5th Avenue Theater Company's productions of Cinderella, Jesus Christ Superstar, My Fair Lady and in the national tour of Mame starring Juliet Prowse. I have worked as a private music instructor in Seattle since 1989. I am also the composer of The Steadfast Tin Soldier, A Story Ballet produced annually by DanceFremont! since 1997. My work with DanceFremont! since that time has also included writing and directing the Musical Theater/Costume Design and Production Camp show each summer.
Passion/Interests: I am passionate about helping students identify and use their talents in pursuit of excellence in mind, body, and spirit.

Kevin Riordan
Drama
At St. Anne since 2009
Education: Bishop Blanchet 2001; Currently working towards a nursing degree
Experience: Worked with all aspects in the Theatre Arts for the last 10 years. I have been part of the Bishop Blanchet Drama Department since 2007 working as a master carpenter, scenic painter, and improv coach.
Passion/Interests: Art, theatre, family, friends and watching movies with my fiancee!

Amy Sachwitz
Library
At St. Anne since 2001
Education: BA English, University of Washington; MA Teaching, City University
Experience: I taught 2nd grade for 5 years and 3rd grade for 4 years. Now I am in the Library.
Passion/Interests: I have always loved reading and I am excited to be the librarian. I find teaching with and about books, while seeing a student learn from literature, to be one of the most rewarding parts of teaching. My goal in the library is to help cultivate a love of reading for each student. I also hope to guide each student in independently selecting "good fit" books during their library time. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my husband and daughter. I also enjoy reading, cooking, and traveling.

Libby Rain
Learning Resource
At St. Anne since 2002
Education: BA Teaching, University of Dayton; MA Teaching with a Reading Certification, National University
Experience: Before becoming the Resource Specialist in 2007, I taught 4th grade and Kindergarten at St. Anne School.
Passion/Interests: I attended Catholic school my entire life and always knew I wanted to work in a Catholic school. My goal as an educator is to foster a love for learning in every student. I have a particular interest in the field of reading. My hope is for all children to experience the joys of reading and I strive to make learning to read a positive experience. I enjoy spending time with my husband and daughter, cooking, reading, and doing most anything related to the outdoors.

Denise Rousso
Counselor
At St. Anne since 2000
Education: BA Journalism, University of Houston; MA School Counseling, Seattle University
Experience: My work at St. Anne has concentrated on developing a school counseling program that has a preventative and proactive focus. I teach skills around friendship, problem-solving, emotional management, and safety before problems develop. I believe all of the above skills are important to each student's happiness, especially as research continues to support the importance of emotional intelligence for overall success in life. I also work with students one-on-one, as well as in small groups.
Passion/Interests: Being able to teach kids how to express themselves and helping them find their greatness within, is rewarding work. Plus, I get to watch and absorb all the funny and energetic things that kids say and do - which usually makes for a pretty entertaining day! It helps that I love my job, plus I am lucky enough to work with a great bunch of students and caring parents. In my spare time, I like riding horses, traveling, and spending time with my two amazing stepsons.

Mary Pat Iaci
Development Director

At St. Anne School since 2004
Experience: I have worked in the field of development for over 20 years. My experience comes from my involvement in many non-profit boards in the community.
Passion/Interests: Volunteerism is what brought me to the development office at St. Anne. While my daughters were attending school here, I volunteered doing some of the things I do now. I love being here at St. Anne, not only because of the strong foundation it gave my daughters for high school and college, but because my responsibilities are diverse, the school is full of energy, and the sense of community is strong. I am able to work with the teachers, students and parents and I like this interaction. In my personal life I am married and have two daughters and a son-in-law. In my free time, I enjoy volunteering, gardening, cooking, golf, knitting, reading and travel.

Erin Oest-Larsen
Fundraising Coordinator
At St. Anne since 2005
Education: BA Advertising, Louisiana State University
Experience: Over 15 years of event planning experience and 10 years of experience with auction and fundraising.
Passion/Interests: I enjoy working at St. Anne School because I thrive on the spirit of the students and their parents. I feel that they truly want to make St. Anne School the best it can be, which enables me to fundraise successfully. I am married and have two daughters attending St. Anne. I enjoy pilates, tennis, and traveling as a family.

Ben Sauvage
Physical Education
At St. Anne since 2000
Education: BA Physical Education, Eastern Oregon University.
Experience: I have been teaching for over 15 years including 10 here at St. Anne.
Passion/Interests: I believe that Physical Education should give all children the opportunity to participate and succeed in a large variety of sports and games. I also believe that an effective P.E. class is one where all kids are busy all of the time. I ran track, cross country and met my wife Traci, who is the Kindergarten teacher at St. Anne, at Eastern Oregon University. In my free time I run a lot. I have run 27 marathons and still compete in many local and national cross country and road races. I am also the cross country and track coach at Seattle Prep, and coach CYO track at St. Anne. Despite all of this, my favorite things to do are play golf, basketball or baseball with my boys.