Meet Our Team
Rooted in Christ. Serving Together.
School Team
School Leadership
Dr. Cassie Tarr
Cassie Tarr joined the Trinity team in the fall of 2020. She graduated from Concordia University Wisconsin with degrees in Lutheran Secondary Education, English, and History (2006). She received the Dr. Marsha Konz Student Educator Award and the Moeller Award for English. Cassie has experience teaching and/or designing learning experiences in face-to-face, blended, and online environments for early childhood through adult learners. This includes service at St. John Lutheran School (Random Lake, WI), CUW (Office of Continuing and Distance Education), Orange Lutheran Online, St. John Lutheran School (Midland, MI), and Lutherans For Life. In 2019, she completed a Preschool Certificate program (NWTC) and a master’s degree in Educational Design and Technology (CUW). In the spring of 2024, she completed CUW’s Doctor of Education program with a dissertation focused on instructional leadership in PreK-8 LCMS schools. Prior to serving as interim principal, Cassie served as middle school ELA teacher and Middle School Assistant Principal. Outside of school, Cassie enjoys spending time with her husband, John, and her five children–Reagan, Noelle, Brooke, Aaron, and Luke.
Jordyn Krier
Mrs. Jordyn Krier will be joining Trinity as our next Assistant Principal. Mrs. Krier began her teaching career as a 4th-grade teacher at Northwest Lutheran School in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, after graduating from Concordia University Wisconsin in 2016. She served as a 5th-grade math teacher and grade-level lead at St. Marcus Lutheran School from 2018-2025. Mrs. Krier has coached volleyball, cross country, and track. She was also involved with organizing school trips and leadership service hours for middle school.
At Trinity, Mrs. Krier hopes to grow relationships with students and families. She aims to bring her knowledge of urban education and social-emotional learning to the classrooms and continue to grow the culture of excellence at Trinity. Jordyn seeks to grow her own leadership skills by learning from the awesome team and leaders in this new avenue of education.
This year, Mrs. Krier will finish her master’s degree from Concordia University Chicago in Curriculum & Instruction with an emphasis in Trauma and Resilience-Based Learning. She is most excited about being able to implement brain-based strategies and support teachers and students in a variety of ways.
Jordyn lives in Shorewood with her husband Joe. She enjoys reading, traveling, and hanging out with her niece and nephews.
Lorrie Becklund
Lorrie joined the Trinity team in the fall of 2020. Lorrie grew up in Minnesota and earned her bachelor’s degree from UW-Stout in Menomonie and her master’s degree in special education from Cardinal Stritch College. She worked as a high school special education teacher for 32 years. She loves her students and loves to be able to share Christ’s love every day!
Her hobbies include traveling/camping with her daughter Alyssa, hiking/snowshoeing with her dogs, and crafting.
Josh Nimmer
Joshua Nimmer graduated from Concordia University- Wisconsin in 2011 with a degree in Elementary Education and a minor in broad-field social studies education. He recently earned a Masters of Education degree in Educational Leadership from Grand Canyon University. Josh married his wife, Sarah in 2011 summer just before moving to Cedar Rapids, IA, to teach at his first Call, Trinity Lutheran School. They have spent time in Iowa, Indiana, and most recently at Mount Olive Christian Day School in Milwaukee. Josh and Sarah have three children. In his free time, Josh enjoys spending time with family in Wisconsin and Illinois and proudly supporting the Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers. He also enjoys the outdoors, going to Brewers games, biking, playing guitar, officiating basketball games, and collecting sports autographs. Josh was nominated for the 2021 South Wisconsin District Teacher of the Year. His classroom culture focuses on relationships, engagement, creating a welcoming environment for all students, and most importantly, sharing the love of Jesus with everyone.
Early Learning
Abby Kaschinske
Abby Kaschinske joined the team at Trinity in January of 2025. Mrs. Kaschinske graduated from Concordia University Wisconsin in 2024 with teaching degrees in both Early Childhood general education as well as Early Childhood Special Education with a certification in Music. During undergraduate studies, Abby was a part of CUW’s choirs and orchestra and held other student leadership roles in Concordia’s Residence Life department. Abby is passionate about creating access for learners with diverse needs to Christ-centered education. In Mrs.K’s spare time, she volunteers singing and playing cello at her church as well as with the youth group. Abby lives with her husband Mason, and they enjoy living by the lake and going up to Green Bay for Packer Games.
Mollie Edwards
Mrs. Edwards grew up in the small town of Vienna, WV. After graduating from West Virginia University, she moved to Louisville, Kentucky, where she taught fifth grade for three years at the Christian Academy of Louisville. She later served as an assistant first and second-grade tutor at a Louisville homeschool cooperative, Sayers Classical Academy. After moving to Wisconsin, she served as a school admissions representative for National Heritage Academies.
Why Trinity? “I was seeking a school for my oldest child to attend in the fall of 2021 when I saw an Open House sign on Freistadt Road and felt compelled to stop by. I immediately felt a sense of trust and peace, and deeply appreciated Trinity’s commitment to Jesus, authentic and family-centered approaches, and balance and diversity in the student body. When the whole family visited for a tour, we felt sure that Trinity was the right place for Miles and our family.”
In her spare time, Mrs. Edwards loves to spend time with friends and family and catch up virtually with loved ones “back home.” She loves to go for walks and rollerblade on the Ozaukee Interurban trail and enjoys visiting local coffee shops to read and relax. Mrs. Edwards has been married to her high school sweetheart, Daniel, since 2012. Together, they have three children: Miles (2nd grade), Audra (kindergarten), and Simon (infant).
Mrs. Edwards holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees with her master’s being in multi-subject elementary education.
Samantha Lustek
Samantha Lustek has been an early childhood teacher here at Trinity since 2021. After receiving a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, Samantha quickly made Trinity her home for teaching. While at Trinity, Samantha has taught grades ranging from 3k through kindergarten, but has found her true passion in 4k. While at Trinity Samantha has engaged in many extracurricular activities such as coaching track and cheer, and assisting in the crochet club. In the classroom, Samantha is intentional about creating a welcoming environment for her students where Jesus is an ever present focus; while providing play based learning with an emphasis on building independence. When Samantha is not teaching, she loves to spend time with her family (husband Nick, and sons Lawrence and George). She also loves to go hiking, biking, crafting and crocheting.
Stacy Gehrke
Stacy Gehrke joined the Trinity Family in January 2003. Stacy Graduated from Concordia University Wisconsin in 2002 with a degree in Early Childhood Education and a minor in Administration. She was called to the Trinity Family to serve as Child Care director and quickly took on more roles including preschool teacher (for 14 years), yearbook advisor, and spent some time working with the youth group. While Child Care director Stacy focused on making it a center rather than wrap around care and extended services to include Infant and Toddler care. After the birth of her first child in 2010, Stacy stepped down as director and focused on teaching. In 2012 Stacy graduated with her Master’s in Early Childhood Education from Concordia University Wisconsin, where she focused on the importance on keeping play in the classroom. She has served on the South Wisconsin District Early Childhood team for six years, two of them as director. In 2017 Stacy moved from teaching preschool at Trinity to Kindergarten and that is where God is using her currently and she continues to focus on meeting high academic needs with appropriate approaches for young children through free play, game play, and hands on centers (or guided play). She enjoys being with her family (husband Jason, daughters Emmaline and Annabel), crafting, online scrapbooking, and being outside in God’s creation.
Katy Mollwitz
Hi I’m Katy! Children are so creative and brave. It brings me joy to hear little children laugh and see them smile. They are so full of hope and love. It is a gift to be able to work with the childrn God has placed in my life. I joined the Trinity Childcare team in June 2021. I have been babysitting and caring for children as long as I can remember. In addition to babysitting for some amazing families, I was private nanny for 5 years, volunteered at Vacation Bible School, led Sunday School, and watched children during adult Bible studies. I was raised by two loving parents, and I have been a member at Trinity since 2006. I attended Trinity School K5 through 8th grade. I love to crochet and gift friends and family with my creations. A fact I love to share about myself is that my parents adopted me!
My favorite Bible verse is John 15:16 “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.”
Elementary
Caitlin Corsten
Caitlin Corsten joined Trinity as a first grade teacher in 2023. She grew up in Fredonia, Wisconsin, and attended the Northern Ozaukee School District. Caitlin graduated from Marian University in 2015 with a degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and a minor in Religious Education.
Before joining the Trinity team, Caitlin taught students from K3 through second grade. She has also advised and coached various extracurricular programs, including Student Council, Nature Club, and Girls on the Run. Currently, she serves as Trinity’s 5th and 6th grade girls’ basketball coach.
Caitlin is passionate about building positive and genuine relationships with her students and their families. She strives to create a welcoming classroom environment where every student feels valued and can reach their full potential.
Caitlin married her husband, Josh, in 2018. They share their home with their dog, Turbo, and cat, Peanut. In her free time, she enjoys reading, crafting, archery, relaxing at her family’s cabin up north, and kickboxing.
Sarah Knuth
Sarah Knuth became a part of the Trinity Freistadt community in 2006. She earned her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Concordia University, Mequon, in 2005. Sarah’s initial role was as a full-day preschool teacher at Immanuel Lutheran in Palatine, Illinois. In 2006, she was called to Trinity to teach third grade, and in 2018, she transitioned to teaching first grade. Currently, she is pursuing a master’s degree in reading while continuing to teach first grade. Sarah cherishes the faith-building, exploration, reading, and joy that her classroom experiences offer. Outside of school, she enjoys crafting, reading, spending time in nature, and being with her family.
Jared Jurss
Jared Jurss joined the Trinity staff in 2023. Originally from Sheboygan, he attended Trinity Lutheran School and later graduated from Sheboygan Lutheran High School. He earned his degree in Early Childhood and Special Education from Concordia University in 2022, where he also recently completed his Master of Science in Leadership.
Jared first became part of the Trinity community during his student teaching experience and was grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow here. In July 2025, he married his wife, Megan, and the couple now resides in Grafton.
Jared is deeply passionate about both his faith and his profession. He loves working with young children and is committed to helping them grow academically and spiritually. In his free time, he enjoys watching and playing basketball, baseball, and football.
Sarah Nimmer
Sarah Nimmer graduated from Concordia University Wisconsin with a degree in Early Childhood Education and a minor in special education. She also holds a master’s degree in Reading. Her teaching experiences range from Kindergarten to 3rd grade. Sarah believes in creating strong relationships with students and connecting with families. She feels it is a privilege to serve God and share His word with others. A Bible verse she lives by is 1 Thessalonians 5:11, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as you are doing.”
Sarah and her husband Josh have three children. In her free time, she loves to read, cook, hike, and spend time with family!
Taylor Haese
Taylor is a 2016 graduate of Concordia University Wisconsin with a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a minor in adaptive education. Ms. Haese comes to Trinity with 8 years of experience having taught preschool and kindergarten, as well as, experience in administration serving as school principal and early childhood director at Ascension Lutheran in Fort Wayne, Indiana and, most recently, Lutheran Church of the Resurrection in St. Louis, Missouri. She has been involved in curriculum development for the Indiana district and children’s ministry such as Sunday School and VBS. Ms. Haese received the Outstanding New Early Childhood Teacher award from LEA in 2017 and the Marsha Konz Student Educator Award at Concordia University Wisconsin in 2016.
Her goal? To help all children exhibit strength, not only in the area of academics but in all areas of development, and who know that they are treasured for who they are—a unique and precious creation of God and a worthwhile person. Ms. Haese is a Wisconsin native, having grown up in Plymouth, WI. She loves anything crafty, playing tennis, and playing with her goldendoodle puppy.
Anna Splittgerber
Anna Splittgerber came to Trinity in August of 2025. Anna Splittgerber grew up in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, and attended Sheboygan Area Lutheran High School. She is currently completing her degree in Elementary Education at Concordia University Wisconsin, with certifications in Mathematics and Social Studies, and will graduate in December. Anna is passionate about building strong relationships with her students and their families. She strives to create a welcoming classroom where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to reach their God-given potential, while sharing the love of Christ in all aspects of learning. Anna recently became engaged in July 2025 to her fiancé, Jonah Jurss. In her free time, she enjoys watching sports, reading, playing games, and spending time at the lake.
Sarah Vingum
Sarah Vingum became a classroom teacher at Trinity in 2023, having previously taught for 7 years in Ohio. Sarah earned her bachelor’s degree from University of Wisconsin Eau-Claire focusing on elementary education and a minor in math, and her master’s degree with a focus on curriculum and instruction and gifted studies from University of Cincinnati.
Although Sarah joined the team as a teacher in 2023, she is very familiar with Trinity Church, School, and Childcare. As a child, she attended Trinity from 3K through 8th grade, has been a lifelong member of Trinity church, and during summer breaks, worked in Trinity’s childcare program. As a current member of the teaching staff, she is the 3rd/4th wing lead, leads 1st-3rd grade Sunday School, and is a 5th/6th grade girls volleyball coach.
Sarah and her husband have one son and a rescue dog. In her free time, she enjoys reading, yoga, going on adventures, and spending time with her family.
Her favorite bible passage is Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Emily Woelfel
Emily Woelfel has been part of the Trinity Freistadt family since 2018. Miss Woelfel’s first call was to teach 5th and 6th grade at St. Paul Lutheran in Fort Dodge, Iowa. While teaching in Iowa, she also worked in the afterschool program at Butler Elementary in the FDCSD, was a Girl Scout leader, and was a 2011 recipient of the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Education. In 2014, she accepted a call that would bring her back to her home state of Wisconsin to teach 3rd and 4th Grade at Trinity Lutheran in Oshkosh. Since 2018, Miss Woelfel has been teaching 4th grade at Trinity Freistadt where she continues to carry on the long-standing tradition of the “Pioneer Days” field trip at Trinity’s Historical Grounds. At Trinity, she assists with the yearbook, the Lutheran Junior Honor Society and teaches Sunday School. Miss Woelfel holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education (Concordia University Wisconsin) with minors in English/Language Arts and Adaptive Education. She enjoys helping students become independent learners and loves to help them discover books that they will love to read. Outside of school Miss Woelfel enjoys spending time with her family – especially her niece, Ella. You’ll also find her reading, baking, and traveling in her spare time.
Middle School
Anna Armbrust
Anna Armbrust joined the Trinity family in the fall of 2020. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Middle-Level Education with a Math concentration and a Youth Ministry minor in 2020, and her Master’s degree in Educational Administration in 2025, both from Concordia University Nebraska. Ms. Armbrust teaches the Advanced Math courses for our Middle School. She is also the Registrar for the Middle School, Cheer Coach, and has previously led Student Council and assisted in Drama productions. Anna is passionate about growing her students’ love for learning and encouraging them in their unique interests and abilities. Her favorite part of teaching is sharing God’s love with her students and helping them grow in their faith. Outside of school, Anna loves to spend time with her family and friends. She loves to bake, read, watch sports (especially the Cardinals and Blues), travel, and explore new places.
Anna Dhuse
Mrs. Anna Dhuse joins Trinity’s middle school math team and will also lead our Chapel Choir. Mrs. Dhuse graduated from CUW with a degree in Lutheran Elementary Education in 2021. She began her teaching career teaching 3rd grade at Good Shepherd Lutheran School in Collinsville, IL. She moved to Green Bay to teach 4th grade at Pilgrim Lutheran for one year before returning to Collinsville to teach 5th grade. She loves the unique blessing of having faith-centered conversations and connecting with students in the Lutheran education setting. Mrs. Dhuse is excited to be teaching middle school math this year and loves the challenge of creating engaging math activities that apply to the real world.
On coming to Trinity, Mrs. Dhuse says, “I’m looking forward to joining the vibrant and growing community at Trinity and can’t wait to connect with families and continue to grow in faith and knowledge of God’s creation together!”
Mrs. Dhuse loves to hike, go to the zoo, and do puzzles in her spare time. Anna’s husband, Chris, recently received his first pastoral call to St. John’s West Bend, and they are thrilled to be moving back to Wisconsin to join such a strong community of churches and schools!
John Ellenberger
John Ellenberger came to Trinity in 2023, serving as a Middle School science and math teacher. Mr. Ellenberger has served in Lutheran Education for 17 years as a classroom teacher, special education resource teacher, curriculum writer, head varsity baseball coach, basketball coach and as an Athletic Director. Previous to Trinity, Mr. Ellenberger served for 16 years at Milwaukee Lutheran High School in those various roles, teaching everything from General Science to College Biology. Mr. Ellenberger received his Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education – Broadfield Physical Science, Chemistry and Mathematics in 2007 and his Master’s degree in Educational Administration in 2015, both from Concordia University Wisconsin. He completed the LCMS leadership development program, SLED, in 2012, and he was named the South Wisconsin District Secondary Teacher of the Year in 2015. Mr. Ellenberger is passionate about providing a challenging and engaging learning experience for students, passionately emphasizing the awesome power and creativity of our Creator God, while focusing on the intricate, intentional and providential design He placed in the world and in us as we are created in His image! He aims to build lasting relationships with students, guiding them in their growing relationship with Christ, while making learning FUN! Mr. Ellenberger loves spending time with his family (wife, Erica; daughter, Grace) and their dog and cat. He enjoys reading, working on home improvement projects, biking, running, being out on the water and cheering for our local sports teams!
John Gehm
Mr. John Gehm joins our middle school team as our second science teacher! This will be John’s 12th year teaching, all at Lutheran schools. His first Call was to St. John’s in Lombard, IL where he spent 4 years teaching 4th grade. Throughout his teaching career, John has spent equal time teaching 4th grade and middle school, most recently at St. John’s in Glendale, WI. Outside of the classroom, John has spent time as a coach, club leader, small group leader, curriculum researcher, and interim principal.
John says that his passion for teaching is best exemplified when “…young scholars make connections between Christ and the scientific world and when students develop their leadership skills and begin to realize their potential to have a positive impact.”
John lives with his wife, Stephanie, and has four daughters (Ella, Flora, Georgie, and Wilhelmina). They live in Milwaukee and enjoy going to the Zoo or The Domes, swimming (especially at a lake), and going to sporting events.
Ryan Hansen
Ryan Hansen is a 2003 graduate of Concordia University Wisconsin with a BA in Pastoral Ministry and a minor in Youth Ministry. He then attended Concordia Seminary St. Louis for 2 years before pursuing a Lay Ministry certification which he earned in 2010.
Ryan has been a youth specialist and Bible teacher for over two decades in a variety of settings. He served in rural ministry at Camp LuWiSoMo, urban mentorship at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee, and as a parish-based youth minister at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grafton. Prior to working at Trinity, Ryan served on the faculty of Milwaukee Lutheran High School as a theology teacher and Dean of Chapel. There he received the peer nominated Heartland Teacher of Merit Award in 2021. Additionally, Ryan had the privilege of presenting as a sectional leader at the LCMS Youth Gathering in Houston (2022) and New Orleans (2025).
Ryan is married to his wife Connie and has 2 sons, Silas (15) and Ezra (13), both who attended Trinity. In his free time, Ryan enjoys camping, hiking, brewing beer, smoking meats, reading, and spending time with his family.
Aidan O'Donnell
Mr. O’Donnell is a recent CUW graduate and called LCMS worker. Aidan has lived in a variety of places, following his father’s positions as an LCMS pastor, but most recently has resided in Oconomowoc, WI. His experiences growing up at Lutheran schools, “…have furthered my passion for learning and have shown me the impact that teachers can have on their students and the importance of a quality Lutheran education.” Mr. O’Donnell has experience in camp counseling, summer school programming, and fine arts performance, with more than 15 years of classical piano training under his belt.
John Tarr
John Tarr earned a B.A. in 6-12 education, with an emphasis in Broad Field Social Studies, and a masters degree in Educational Design and Technology from Concordia University, Wisconsin. He began teaching middle school in central Wisconsin and then transitioned to Lake Country Lutheran High School, Hartland, Wisconsin where he taught various subjects for nine years. He took a call to St. John Random Lake, Wisconsin where he taught a variety of grade levels and subjects, and served in the role of assistant administrator. John has 15+ years experience as a Lutheran educator, is the director of the Trinity Theater Company, and teaches middle school science and social studies. When away from Trinity, John enjoys walks along Lake Michigan with his wife Cassie Tarr and their dog Emma, teaching adult sailing courses, reading, and watching movies.
Anne Watkins
Mrs. Watkins was born and raised in southeastern Wisconsin. She attended college in the southern part of the Fox Valley and began her teaching career at a public middle school, where she taught for 18 years. After the birth of her fourth child, with her oldest being just five years old, she took time off to focus on raising her young family.
God then led Mrs. Watkins to serve in her church as the nursery supervisor for children from birth to age 3 and to oversee mid-week programming for children from birth to age 5. After three years in that role, she transitioned into teaching 3K at the school her children attended. Following four years in that position, she intended to return to staying home full-time when her husband’s travel schedule increased significantly. However, God redirected her path once more, leading her to Trinity Lutheran Church and School, where her faith and teaching experience beautifully came together.
Not long after, Mrs. Watkins’s youngest daughter also joined Trinity, transitioning from public school to grow in her faith alongside her academic journey. Mrs. Watkins feels deeply blessed to be in a place where God’s presence nurtures the spiritual and academic growth of His children.
Train up children in the way they should go; even when they are old, they will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
Anessa Yim
Anessa Yim is a graduate of Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW), where she earned her degree in elementary education with a concentration in English/Language Arts. At CUW, Anessa has been a member of the cross-country and track teams. Her coaches have described her as having a servant’s heart, always willing to go above and beyond for her teammates.
Anessa worked as an algebra tutor for several years, where she found her love of teaching; she student-taught at John Long Middle School in Grafton.
Anessa says, “I am excited to build a classroom where students will be able to feel safe to learn, be themselves, and build meaningful relationships with others.”
Outside of the classroom, Anessa enjoys reading, crocheting, and is currently learning to play the ukulele.
Train up children in the way they should go; even when they are old, they will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
Specials
Lindsey Atwood
Mrs. Lindsey Atwood joins a thriving arts program at Trinity and will teach Kindergarten through 3rd grade. Mrs. Atwood graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point in 2008, with a double major in elementary education and Spanish Education, and later received a post-baccalaureate in ESL and bilingual education. She taught students in first grade through high school in the Milwaukee area in both public and private schools. She had been homeschooling two of her four children for the past seven years before enrolling her three oldest children at Trinity this past school year. During her years as a homeschool parent, she was a tutor with a homeschool group called Classical Conversations where one of the subjects she taught was art. She enjoys incorporating art history and literature into her lesson plans to make art fun and meaningful.
Mrs. Atwood wants kids to be able to express themselves and explore their God-given talents. She is most looking forward to getting to know the students by name and establishing a good teacher/student relationship with them as we have fun making art together this year.
Her husband Ryan and her four kids, Naomi (7th), Lilia (6th), Ian (4th) and Aurelia (4K) live in Glendale and together they enjoy worshiping the Greatest Artist of all, Creator God! She also loves singing, kayaking on Lake Michigan, traveling and spending time with International students.
Greg Black
Greg Black has served as school librarian since 2016.** Mr. Black had spent the last 20 years of his life in Information Systems at Funjet Vacations managing links with such trading partners as Disney and Southwest Airlines. So, it was an easy transition in his retirement to manage the computerized book/patron tracking system at the school and to perform the ancillary tasks associated with library upkeep such as coding book purchases and acquisitions – to say nothing of sorting and reshelving those countless returned books! Mr. Black has an MBA, but administers the library as a part-time volunteer. He is grateful for the considerable assistance in moving the library to its current location below the church sanctuary, as well as in making it the welcoming space it has become. Both of Mr. Black’s adult sons were confirmed at Trinity Freistadt and still reside in the Milwaukee area with their families. Mr. Black feels he has been abundantly blessed by the Lord.
Stephanie Juergensen
Stephanie Juergensen joined Trinity by way of Living Word Lutheran High School in the fall of 2022. Since then, Steph teaches K-8 PE here at Trinity. Steph has over 15 years of experience teaching PE at the K-12 levels; all at Lutheran Schools. Steph started her career at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grafton as youth director and then she and her husband Jim took calls to teach at Orange Lutheran HS in Orange, CA. After staying home for a decade to raise her 3 children, Steph jumped back into teaching again in 2011 at LWLHS in Jackson. Steph resides in Cedarburg with her husband Jim, who is an Education Professor and Director of Faith Integration for Athletes at Concordia University, Wisconsin. They have raised 3 children, Jessie, Jimmy and Ellie. Jessie and Jimmy are both Lutheran school teachers and Ellie will soon be one as well. Sports and activities run strong in their family! Stephanie earned her Lutheran Teacher Diploma and Bachelors Degree from CUW as well as earning All-American honors in the sport of Basketball, leading her team to 4 National Tournament appearances back in the early 90’s. In her free time now, she enjoys being an empty nester; although the kids fly in and out of the nest quite regularly. ;-0 Traveling, hiking, camping, kayaking, thrifting and flipping furniture are also high on the “favorite ways to spend time” list.
Shannon Krueger
Mrs. Krueger teaches band, general music, and piano at Trinity.
She earned a Bachelor of Music Education (B.M.E.) degree from Concordia University, Chicago with a double emphasis in instrumental and general music. She has also completed three levels of Orff Schulwerk teacher certification. Mrs. Krueger has 25+ years of teaching experience, making music with God’s children, ages birth through 12th grade. She holds a Wisconsin state teaching license for PreK – 12th grade music, as well as a Lutheran Teacher Certificate. She has taught at Lutheran schools in the Chicagoland area, St. Louis, Missouri, and the Milwaukee area. She loves working at Trinity where she gets to see children growing in their love of the Lord and their love for music every day!
Anne Pipkorn
Anne Pipkorn came to Trinity in 2021 as Trinity’s Art Teacher. She began her teaching career in 2006 at Trinity Lutheran School in Tinley Park, Illinois. In addition to teaching, Mrs. Pipkorn has served as a cheerleading coach and assistant director for drama productions. Currently, she is involved with helping to paint the sets for Trinity’s theater. Her ministry focus is to bring awareness to her students of the beauty of God’s creation. Mrs. Pipkorn has a Bachelor’s degree in Lutheran Elementary Education with a minor in Art from Concordia University in River Forest, Illinois. Outside of teaching, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Drew, and three boys, Oliver, Ian and Gilbert. She also is an avid reader and gardener.
Emily Sobacki
Emily Sobacki joined the Trinity Lutheran team Fall 2024 as the Strings Instructor. An Illinois native, Ms. Sobacki studied at Illinois State University where she earned both her Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in violin performance.
Having roots in the Suzuki method as a student, she further embraced the philosophy by pursuing teacher training through the Suzuki Association of the Americas. Ms. Sobacki has served on faculty at several Suzuki programs in Illinois and maintained a private home studio. Additionally, she has coached small string groups for the Lake Geneva Middle School, and the Illinois Valley Youth Symphony. As a music instructor she enjoys making meaningful connections with students and their families. She believes that with nurturing surroundings and support, all children can learn to play an instrument.
As a performer, Emily has enjoyed leadership roles with the Lake Geneva Symphony, Beloit Janesville Symphony, and Fox Valley Orchestra. A chamber music enthusiast, Emily engages in frequent musical collaborations with friends and colleagues, including chamber music series, church services, weddings, and other special events.
Outside of practicing and performing, Emily enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, trying new recipes, and traveling. She is a Suzuki parent to her two children who study classical guitar.
Brenda Szelmeczki
Mrs. Brenda Szelmeczki joins Trinity as our newest private piano instructor. Mrs. Szelmeczki holds a bachelor’s (University of Mississippi) and master’s degree (University of Alabama) in music, piano performance.
After college, Mrs. Szelmeczki taught piano at the Adelaide Banaszynski School for Piano Studies in Milwaukee. She then went on to serve as instructor of piano and music appreciation at Hinds Community College in Raymond, Mississippi. While in Mississippi, she also served as the director of the Mississippi Keyboard Camp. Currently, Mrs. Szelmeczki enjoys teaching private piano lessons, performing, and serving as a musician at her church. She has extensive experience as a church pianist and as a choral and instrumental accompanist.
Mrs. Szelmeczki is excited to teach piano lessons at Trinity this year to provide the opportunity for students to discover the joy of playing music. She plans to focus on an individualized approach to help each student discover the wonders of God’s gift of music.
Mrs. Szelmeczki is married to Lt. Steven Szelmeczki, a chaplain in the U.S. Navy, who currently serves the Lake Michigan Coast Guard. They have four children. Mrs. Szelmeczki enjoys being a homeschool mom, spending time in nature, and supporting all the arts.
David Wells
Mr. David Wells will join Trinity’s fine arts team, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience! He will be leading Trinity’s Concert Choir, assisting with Concert Band sectionals, and teaching individual piano lessons.
Mr. Wells earned a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in music education from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He has taught music in the public schools of Janesville, Wisconsin, and Elmhurst and rural Kankakee County, Illinois. He has been a member of the Kettle Moraine Symphony for approximately 20 years and has directed numerous community musicals, most recently The Music Man with the West Bend Musical Masquers. He was also a longtime member of the Moraine Chorus and director of the Moraine Symphonic Band. He is a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in West Bend and plays keyboard and does backup vocals with their worship team. He lives in Jackson with his wife, Susan, and son Jeremy.
Mr. Wells says, “I believe music is one of the most remarkable gifts God has given us. But like so many gifts it can be used to bless people and to glorify God, or it can be squandered, and therefore we should view it as a stewardship. My goal for the Trinity students is for them to learn to appreciate the joy and beauty that can be expressed in music of all types, and to put it to its highest use, whether as singers or instrumentalists.”
Special Education
Dori Ross
Dorilee (Dori) started at Trinity in 2024.. Mrs. Ross has taught for 16 years in various places, including Menomonee Falls, South Carolina, and Iowa. She has helped in many areas, such as cheerleading coach, soccer coach deaf ministry, and making costumes for over 20 years.
Dori lives with her husband, Rob, north of West Bend. Dori has 5 children and 7 grandchildren. Dori loves spending time with friends and family. Whatever the event, playing games, a sporting event, going for a walk or just hanging out, she is so thankful for the opportunities Gad has given her.
Dori is currently teaching 3-6 grade Sunday School and helping her husband with the teen ministry at their church.
April Stolte
April earned her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Concordia University in 2012, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Business. She also holds a Doctoral Certificate in Infant and Early Childhood Family Mental Health from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. By the end of 2025, she will complete advanced training in Adoption and Foster Care Competency to further support families navigating these unique journeys.
Throughout her career, April has gained diverse clinical experience across a variety of settings, including early intervention (birth to three), outpatient clinics, acute rehab, and school-based services. These experiences have shaped her therapeutic approach and deepened her commitment to helping families thrive. Her areas of specialization include pediatrics, visual processing, executive functioning, and mental health.
April uses a holistic, evidence-based approach, aiming to support the whole person. She is grateful for the opportunity to integrate her faith into her work at Trinity, where her goal is to serve as a trusted resource for children, educators, aides, and families within the community.
April and her husband, Michael, were married in 2003 and have three children. Together, they enjoy traveling, playing games, family movie nights, and spending time at the beach kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming. April also enjoys running and reading—everything from fiction to professional texts.
Teacher Support
Molly Alvarez
Allow me to introduce myself, I am Molly Alvarez. Trinity Freistadt has been a part of my life since I can remember! I was baptized and confirmed at Trinity. Growing up my family attended Trinity church and as I got older and moved away no matter how far life has taken me from Trinity I have always been brought back! It feels like home and I can say that as a whole Trinity church, school and childcare is a very special place. I have two sons that have attended school at Trinity since 2016 when they started preschool and kindergarten. It was a blessing to join Trinity’s staff in 2021, so much of my world was already at Trinity. I have worked with many age groups but find the most joy within the toddler and preschool ages. When life can seem dull and ordinary I find myself refreshed by the students I work with. Seeing the world so creatively, raw, and innocent through a toddler or young child’s eyes is a true blessing to my days. I strive and work hard at being an active and hands-on caregiver. You will find me making pretend coffee and cookies in the play kitchen, on the floor building block towers, I join in on every dance party, I will always participate in art projects with them, and I truly love sharing the word and love of Jesus with them. At home I love to spend time with my husband, our kids and our insanely handsome and smart german shepherd, Theo. I enjoy listening to audio books. I also love to cook or bake and to cuddle up on the couch to watch a good mystery movie or show.
My favorite Bible verse is 1 corinthians 16:14 “Let all that you do be done in love”
Lisa Anderson
Lisa Anderson came to Trinity in the Fall of 2019. Mrs. Anderson has experience as a Service Coordinator in the Birth to Three Program in Milwaukee Country, teacher’s aide at Our Redeemer Lutheran and child care worker here at Trinity. Mrs. Anderson has worked with children, birth to 1st grade. She is currently the Teacher Aide in the 3K classroom at Trinity. Her ministry in the classroom involves including Jesus in all activities with children and always reminding them that Jesus loves them.
Mrs. Anderson graduated from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse with a degree in sociology and with a child youth emphasis.
Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Anderson loves spending time with her husband, Steve and their children, Ethan, Rachel and Megan, and extended family. She loves watching her children’s activities and volunteering at her church.
Maya Chaney
Maya Chaney is a recent college graduate who earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Alabama State University on May 3rd, 2024. She is passionate about seeing children channel their creativity in ways that develop into valuable skills. Maya enjoys being a part of their developmental process and cherishes the opportunity to nurture and care for children in ways she wishes some of her own leaders had done for her growing up.
As of December 2024, Maya has joined the Trinity Childcare Team. She was previously a float teacher at Evolve Church MKE, where she is also currently enrolled in Minister in Training courses under Kenneth Lock II. Maya’s father is a minister in Milwaukee, and her mother is a prophetic teacher, nurturer, and caregiver to many. Since 1998, her mother has worked as a supervisor in the healthcare system in Milwaukee and holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her mother’s relentless work ethic is a source of inspiration for Maya.
Maya comes from a loving and nurturing family, both biological and spiritual. She enjoys a variety of activities, including reading, writing, public speaking, singing, and dancing. She was part of the large production “Stand Your Ground: In the Midst,” a play written and directed by Ronda Davis and Bernita Wright in Milwaukee. Maya is adventurous and creative at heart, and she has a deep love for Jesus and all faith-based activities centered around the gospel of Jesus Christ.
A lover of scripture, Maya enjoys reading the Bible and meditating on its teachings. Her favorite scripture is Psalms 27:1 (NIRV): “The Lord is my light, and he saves me. Why should I fear anyone? The Lord is my place of safety. Why should I be afraid?”
Tiffany Hegwood
Hi, I’m Tiffany. I love working with children because they represent hope and the future. They are the next generation and I get to be a part of shaping their manners, independence, and to make sure they know they are loved by their Savior Jesus Christ. I love being a witness to their “firsts”. I am humbled and honored for the responsibility of adding joy and caring for these dearly loved children. I have a heart for all children and a future goal of mine is to work with children with special needs, emphasizing on behavioral needs. I joined the Trinity team in March 2020. I have served in the childcare field for over 20 years, working with children of all ages and developmental levels. I am currently a level nine with the WI State Registry and make it a point to continue my professional development. I love to spend time cheering on my five children in their various activities. I attend church at Central Church of Christ. Fun fact about me is there isn’t an episode of “Law and Order” that I don’t know.
My favorite Bible verse is Luke 1: 78-79, “because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us[a] from on high to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”
Janet Holseth
Mrs. Janet Holseth joined the Trinity team in the fall of 2020. She has an extensive rich history of teaching as an Early childhood assistant with Montessori school, an is now honored to be the kindergarten support aide with Ms. Katy Mollwitz.
Janet believes she has been truly blessed that God has called her to Trinity be a part of the Trinity family!
“My day is complete when I see so many happy hearts, new friendships and excitement in a child’s eyes all while learning, having fun and praising God”!
Janet and her husband Mike have 5 grown children and a black lab, Harley. They live in Mequon. Some of her interests are Milwaukee Brewers,biking, cooking, reading and newest hobby, gardening. Janet and her family are joyfully awaiting the blessing of their first grandchild September 2025, a gift from God they can’t wait to meet.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
Maria Klabon
Mrs. Klabon is thrilled to be a Teacher’s Aide in Mrs. Kaschinske’s 3-year-old preschool room.
Mrs. Klabon’s background includes an MSE with a Learning Disabilities specialization from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point in 1986, a BSE in Elementary Education, Grades 1-6, with a Cognitive Disabilities specialization from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater in 1979, and 37 years of classroom lead teaching experience with children aged 6-17.
Mrs. Klabon is passionate about fostering student engagement and helping students obtain their full potential. Being a Christian educator involves integrating faith and education both spiritually and morally. Mrs. Klabon accomplishes this by exhibiting the fruits of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and self-control) in all interactions with students, colleagues, and parents.
Outside school, Mrs. Klabon enjoys spending time with family, especially her twin grandsons. She is an avid reader, church and community volunteer, and Wisconsin sports fan.
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