L'ANSE AREA SCHOOL - Key Persons


Aaron Poniatowski

Aaron Poniatowski started teaching at L'Anse in the fall of 2005. She graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Music Education (2005) and a Masters in Music Education (2012). Aaron's primary instrument is the trumpet, but does play all woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. She will be teaching K-5 General Music, Sixth grade beginning band, Junior High Band (grades 7 and 8), Senior High Band, and Yearbook. She is also the director of the Marching and Pep Band for the football and basketball games and the Senior Class Advisor. Aaron lives in L'Anse with her son James.

AMANDA NORDSTROM - Treasurer

Job Titles:
  • Treasurer
I currently reside in L'Anse with my husband, Geoff, as well as my three children which all attend L'Anse Area School. I have worked in the field of higher education for the past 9 years in many different capacities, presently serving the role as the Dean of Student Services and an Adjunct Business Instructor at the Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College. I hold a Master of Business Administration degree in addition to other various certifications I have acquired in my years working within the College. I believe with my education and vast knowledge of the educational systems processes and procedures I will be an incredible asset to the Board of Education. I am extremely honored to be chosen for this position and will strive to adhere to the mission of the school by working together to develop individual strengths, talents and responsibilities in a caring, respectful and safe environment.

Anne Schumer

Hi! I am Anne Schumer and I began teaching third grade at L'Anse Area Schools in the fall of 2010. Prior to that, I was the principal of Sacred Heart School in L'Anse for five years. My teaching experience includes working in Curtis and South Lyon, Michigan and Pine City, Minnesota. I have taught first, third, and fourth grade, Title I, and a combination class of fifth and sixth grade. I grew up near Skandia, south of Marquette and graduated from Gwinn High School. I received my degree in Elementary Education and my Masters degree in Educational Administration and Supervision from Northern Michigan University. In my free time, I enjoy reading, baking, and being outdoors in all seasons with my husband and my dog.

April Thor

Hi there! My name is April Thor, and I am very excited for my tenth year of teaching here at C.J. Sullivan. As one of your second grade teachers, I am looking forward to a wonderful year! I am a graduate of Baraga High School, and have since earned my Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education, with minors in Math and Language Arts, from Western Michigan University. I have three children, Tessa, Kyla and Tannon. Outside of school I love spending time adventuring with my family. Please feel free to contact me at any time via phone or email, as listed above.

Belanger, Tyler

Job Titles:
  • Math Teacher

Ben Maycunich

Job Titles:
  • Industrial Education
My name is Benjamin Maycunich and I am the instructor for Woodshop, Welding and Manufacturing, and CTE welding. I am a graduate of Kingsford Highschool and Northern Michigan University. I am glad to be able to work and play in the Upper Peninsula, and reside on Lake Michigamme. In my spare time I enjoy building/restoring antique cars, traveling, and exploring our beautiful area.

Betty Cangemi

Job Titles:
  • Science & Math
Mrs. Cangemi is a L'Anse Area Schools graduate and has taught for over 20 years. She is repected by her students and peers.

Bianco, Shelley

Job Titles:
  • Head Cook

Brian Perry

Brian Perry is a 4th grade teacher at C.J. Sullivan Elementary School. During switch time Mr. Perry teaches reading and writing. Mr. Perry graduated from Grand Valley State University Honors College in 2006 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and an Elementary Education minor. He earned his Masters Degree in Education Administration at Northern Michigan University in May 2014. Mr. Perry taught 6th grade at Stangel Elementary in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, before coming to L'Anse. He lives in Crystal Falls with his son.

Briggs, Jason

Job Titles:
  • Substitute Teacher

Briggs-McNeal, Sarah


Brittany Wadaga

Job Titles:
  • Nurse
Hi! My name is Brittany Wadaga. I will be one of the school nurses along with teaching Biology and Health 7. I am very excited to begin teaching and continuing my nursing career here at LAS. I also work prn as a Family Nurse Practitioner at BCMH. I am originally from WI but have resided in the U.P. for the past 20 years. My education includes a BSN degree from Finlandia University in 2016 and MSN-FNP degree from the University of Michigan - Flint in 2018. I live in Baraga with my husband, Kyle and our 3 daughters. Spending time with my family is my favorite thing to do. I also enjoy watching football, baking, and traveling . I am looking forward to the upcoming school year!

Brooke Osterman

Job Titles:
  • School Nurse & CTE Health Careers
My name is Brooke Osterman and I am the K-12 school nurse, CTE Health Careers instructor, and HOSA advisor. I graduated from L'Anse High School in 2011. I went on to attend Northern Michigan University where I graduated in 2015 with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. After 5 1/2 years of working as a RN at UPHS-Marquette and BCMH, I decided to make the leap to the school setting. This position has given me the opportunity to practice both nursing and teaching, two things I really enjoy. I also enjoy spending time outdoors, watching football, baking, and spending time with my family. I live in Aura with my husband and our three girls.

Callie Cram

I am a graduate of L'Anse High School and Central Michigan University. I am the At Risk teacher. I live in L'Anse. I enjoy spending time with my daughters, my dogs, and a good book!

Cangemi, Betty

Job Titles:
  • Science & Math

Cichosz, Lisa


Coach Elijah Emmer

Job Titles:
  • Assistant Varsity Football Coach and at Risk Tutor.
  • at Risk Teacher
I graduated from Finlandia in 2023 with a degree in liberal studies with concatenations in History and Philosophy with an English minor. I've lived in the U.P. since 2018 and played 4 years of college football for WLC and Finlandia.

Cox, Rachel


Cram, Callie


Dan Cavanaugh

Job Titles:
  • Trustee
I am excited to be newly appointed to the L'Anse Area Schools Board of Education. I grew up in L'Anse and graduated from LHS in 2005. Throughout my years here I was involved in many extracurricular activities. These included sports and things like Youth in Government and Drama Club. After LHS, I received a Bachelor's degree from Northern Michigan University in Physiology. Following my time at NMU, I attended Northwestern Health Sciences University and graduated in 2016, as a Doctor of Chiropractic. After that, my wife, Aja, and I decided to move home to L'Anse. The main reasons we moved home are family, we love the area, and the sense of community that is like nowhere else. We have three children and love that they get to grow up here. I have been practicing at Align Chiropractic in L'Anse for five years. There, I have the opportunity to help members of our community to live healthier, happier lives. I am passionate about my profession and am humbled to be able to make such a big difference in the lives of our friends and neighbors.

Darrin Voskuhl

Job Titles:
  • Director of Student Services & Athletic Director
Hello, my name is Darrin Voskuhl. I am currently the Director of Student Services and Athletic Director. In the past I have taught K-8 Physical Education and have been at L'Anse for nearly 17 years. My hobbies include anything athletic. Outside of school, I enjoy hunting, fishing and spending time with my family and friends. I'm looking forward to another great school year!

David Hunter

Hello, I'm very excited about joining the 4th-grade team and getting to know everyone. I moved to Baraga County a little over a year ago from New Mexico. I couldn't take the heat any longer and decided that I wanted to move someplace that was cooler, wetter, and greener. So, here I am! I enjoy making things with my hands and spending time walking in the woods with my dog. I also have a cat and chickens. I'm very grateful to have found another teaching position here at L'Anse Area Schools. Don't worry, I'm not new to education. I've been teaching elementary students for over 20 years, 12 years in 3rd-grade, so I have a good idea where we're coming from, and I've taught 4th-grade for a few years. I like to think of myself as the captain of a ship sailing over a journey of learning. It takes all hands on deck to sail across the great wide 4th-grade ocean, so we will all be shipmates, and teachers, learning from one another. If anyone falls overboard, I'll jump in to throw them a life-ring so we all safely reach our destination to 5th-grade together. To help me do this I'd like to get to know your child better. Would you please jot down some of your hopes and dreams for your child this school year? Things you might share could be your child's strengths, weaknesses, after-school activities, interests, hobbies, etc. The sky's the limit, go ahead and brag about your child.

David Ruhman

Graduated from Eastern Nazarene College with a BA in Psychology with minors in Math and Science, Webster University with a Master's in Counseling Services, NMU with a Specialist's degree in Education Administration and from the University of Missouri - Columbia with a Education Doctorate in Education Leadership and Policy Analysis. I have taught or been an administrator in Missouri, Michigan, and Wisconsin. I have been a Math teacher, Middle School Counselor, Assistant Middle School Principal, Alternative School Director, Career and Technical Education School Director, Dean of Students and Superintendent. Before working in education I served in Residential Treatment Centers and worked with College and University Housing. I am living in the Upper Peninsula to help my wife care for her parents. We love the area, the people and are proud of the schools we serve.

DeLine, John


Emily Maxson

My name is Emily Maxson and I am a 2nd grade teacher. I began my teaching career at C.J. Sullivan Elementary School in 2010. I am originally from Kingsford, Michigan, where I graduated from high school in 2004. I hold a Bachelors of Science Degree in Elementary Education and also a Masters in Education with a focus on being a Reading Specialist, from Northern Michigan University. I LOVE technology, especially using it in my classroom to help students enjoy learning! In my spare time I like to hunt, go berry picking and hang out with my husband, daughters, and huge golden retriever named Fluke. We are usually out at camp or on a road trip adventure.

Emmer, Elijah

Job Titles:
  • at Risk Teacher

Evans, Sonya

Job Titles:
  • Library Director

Frost, Rebecca


Heather Grentz

Job Titles:
  • Guidance Counselor
My name is Heather Grentz and I am the Jr/Sr High School Counselor. I graduated from Northern Michigan University in the Spring of 2000 with a degree in elementary education. I started working in the District that fall teaching 5th grade. In 2004 I received my Masters from NMU in K-12 guidance counseling. After 7 years in the District teaching 5th grade I made the move to the Guidance Office. The counseling office can be used for individual student planning, responsive services, guidance curriculum, and system support.

Hendrickson, Kimberly

Job Titles:
  • Social Worker

Hochstein, Joanne

Job Titles:
  • Administrative Assistant
  • Superintendent

Holly Lubzik

Job Titles:
  • Elementary Secretary
Hello there! My name is Holly and I am the K5 Secretary. I moved to L'Anse in May 2023 from Livonia, MI. I previously was the Academic Coordinator for the College of Arts and Sciences at Madonna University. I moved to the L'Anse area to escape suburbia. It has been an adjustment, but I am so happy to be here.

Hunter, David


Jacob Ogea

Hello, my name is Jacob Ogea. I currently teach 6th and 7th grade Social Studies and 9th Grade World History. I'm a life-long Yooper born and raised in Marquette, graduate of Marquette Senior High School. I graduated from Northern Michigan University this past December with a B.S. in Secondary Education with a major in Social Studies and a minor in Political Science. I coach Middle and High School Track along with John Jacobson. In my spare time, I DJ weddings for my dad's company, Pierre Ogea Entertainment. For the past eight years I've done radio broadcasting for Marquette Senior High School sports; calling football, basketball, baseball and softball games over the airwaves. I'm thrilled that I get to continue calling the Upper Peninsula home and make a difference in the local community. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.

Jacobson, John

Job Titles:
  • Special Education

Jacqueline Rowlison

My name is Jacqueline Rowlison and I am the new K-12 Art Teacher. I graduated from Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University. I have a BFA in Art Education with a minor in Sculpture and Interior Design. I worked with an Interior Designer for a couple of years before finding a job in Education. I worked as an Elementary Art Teacher in Indiana for two years before taking a job at my old Middle/High School as their Art Teacher. I am so excited to start my 7th year of teaching here at L'Anse and to be able to be teaching K-12 students. It has been my dream to live in the U.P. and enjoy all the activities it has to offer. In my free time I love to look for rocks, fish, hike and to make my own art.

Jamie Senske

Hi! My name is Jamie Senske I have been teaching at L'Anse since 2018. I currently live in Ishpeming with my husband and two daughters. I am from Munising and graduated from NMU in 2013 with a Bachelor's of Science in Elementary Education. In my free time I love being at home and spending time with my family. My favorite time of year is summer where I love to be at the beach, enjoying the warm sunshine.

Janet Gerzetich

I am a graduate of the L'Anse Area Schools and proud parent of three L'Anse Area Schools graduates as well. I began my teaching career in 1980 at the Laird School in Alston. I have taught at the kindergarten through fourth grade levels. I am currently the lower elementary Title I teacher.

Jason Briggs

Job Titles:
  • Substitute Teacher
I am married to the Middle School English Teacher, Sarah Briggs-McNeal. She moved to L'Anse from Negaunee Township in 2020 and I moved here the next year. We have built a house on Lake Superior after living in a camper for a couple of years on our property. I went to NMU for Art & Design in 2000 and graduated in 2005 with a Bachelors of Fine Arts. I met my wife Sarah at College and we have lived in Marquette, Negaunee, Ishpeming and Newberry before moving to L'Anse. We love going to the beach on Lake Superior with our dogs and canoeing.

Jennifer Knisely

Hello, my name is Jen Knisely. I grew up in Baraga and graduated from Baraga High School in 2004. I then attended the University of Michigan where I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education in 2008. In 2017 I graduated with my Master's Degree in Learning Disabilities from Northern Michigan University. I was hired by the district in the fall of 2008. This school year I am teaching Civics & Economics, Psychology, and U.S. History.

JIM FEDIE - VP

Job Titles:
  • Vice President
My name is Jim Fedie and am a 1980 graduate of L'Anse High School.

JOAN BUGNI - President

Job Titles:
  • President

John DeLine

My name is John DeLine. I joined L'Anse Area Schools in 2021. Previously, I worked at L'Anse-Baraga Community Schools as an Alternative Education Teacher. I graduated From Northland College in Ashland, Wisconsin, with a B.S in Social Studies Education. I am a graduate of L'Anse Area Schools and have lived here most of my life. I feel fortunate to live and work in Baraga County. I enjoy spending time on or near Lake Superior. My son and I have recently taken up fishing and we are eager to find the best parts of the earth that are covered by water. I also enjoy camping, snowshoeing, swimming and riding in my side by side.

John Jacobson

Job Titles:
  • Special Education
This is my 23rd year teaching at L'Anse High School. I have a son who is in college and I'm very proud of him, and I guess I am now qualified as an empty-nester. I recently retired from coaching high school football. It was a tremendous 20 year experience working with so many young men in that position, but it was time to move on. I now get to be a fan and I can focus more on other things, such as teaching special education during a pandemic. It is sometimes hard to believe, but every year it seems like I appreciate my students even more than the year prior. So many of them surprise me by what they can overcome and achieve. I do try to push them hard to achieve their highest potential, and when they can't do anymore than what I am asking from them then that's when I try to provide as much support as I can. I consider education to be an incredible gift, and as I have gained more experience I have come to realize that achieving in education is one of the greatest accomplishments a person can do. It is absolutely one of my greatest thrills to see a student's confidence grow because they realize that they can learn and that once they get an education it is something that no one can ever take away from them. I work with students a lot in math, and I absolutely love the challenge of that discipline as it keeps me in touch with my inner nerd. So anyway, that's all I got, thank you for reading this to the very end, you did good!!!

Katie Martinac

Job Titles:
  • Secretary

KATIE WAARA

Job Titles:
  • Secretary
I live in L'Anse with my husband and our five children. Originally, from Baraga, MI I graduated from Baraga High School in 1999 and then attended Michigan State University, graduating in 2004. I have worked for BHK Child Development for the past 13 years. My family and I love attending LAS extracurricular events such as football, volleyball, basketball, track and band concerts. We also enjoy the outdoors, taking advantage of all the seasonal activities that our great community has to offer.

Kayli Salmela

Job Titles:
  • Substitute Teacher
Kayli Salmela has been a permanent substitute teacher at the L'Anse Area Schools since she moved to the area in the fall of 2021. She is originally from New Hampshire and Minnesota, but she spent time in the U.P. as a kid visiting friends and family and is excited to live here now. She graduated with a Bachelor's degree from the Twin Cities campus of the University of Minnesota in 2021. In her free time she loves to learn about plants, go for walks, and travel to see her family in Minnesota or New Hampshire when she can.

Keranen, Austin

Job Titles:
  • Chemistry & Science

Kimberly Hendrickson

Job Titles:
  • Social Worker
My name is Kimberly Hendrickson and I received my clinical and macro graduate degree as an MSW from Michigan State University. I received my School Social Work certification from MSU and have always enjoyed working in the schools. I am fully licensed to practice in Michigan as an LMSW with ACSW certification. I have worked as a Director of Social Services, Medical Social Service Director, a private contractor for 10 years with 5 years full time as the School Social Worker for an Intermediate School District and as a contracted therapist for Access Psychological. I currently provide on call crisis services for Copper Country Mental Health and Pathways mental health, serving 8 counties. I currently work for my local school district in L'Anse as the Student Services Supports Director and have my School Social Work certification and I provide crisis services for R3 continuum as a contracted provider offering disruption, response and recovery services, when my availability allows. I have extensive training and experience in Trauma work and serve on our local FAN chapter board (Families against Narcotics) and have held National Certification In Addictions. I am also a member of BARCC (building a resilient copper country).

Kinnon Kurtycz

Job Titles:
  • Science
I'll be teaching a mix of junior high and high school science this year. I graduated from NMU with my bachelor's in Secondary Education Integrated Science. I'm from downstate in Grand Rapids, but I've been visiting family in the U.P. since I was little. My wife, Tara, and I just bought a house in the area, and we're excited to settle into U.P. living. When I'm not working, you might find me bird or rabbit hunting or exploring a new hiking trail. I look forward to getting involved in the L'Anse Community!

Knisely, Jennifer


Kristin Marczak

Hi! My name is Kristin Marczak. I began my teaching career here in L'Anse in the fall of 2007. I taught one year of kindergarten and have been in first grade since! I attended Northern Michigan University where I received my Bachelor's of Science in Elementary Education in December 2006 and received my Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Western Governors University in 2019.

Kristine Maki

Job Titles:
  • Social Worker
Hello, friends! I am the K-12 Social Worker and the WatchDOG (Dads of Great Students) Coordinator. My education background and license is in Clinical Social Work (MSW) from Michigan State University and my B.S. is in Psychology and Native American Studies from Northern Michigan University. I have experience in Individual therapy, group therapy, anger management, home visiting, the 31N program (Mental Health Professional), and community health. I currently manage the Check in/Check out (Hornet Progress) Program which is coordinated through a student's SAT plan. Not only our students in school, my focus is on the whole family--Whether it's mental health related or assisting with community resources. To better serve our families I have two office spaces--one in the elementary (morning) and one in the JR/SR office (afternoon). Personally, I grew up in the area and have four children--three attend LAS and the fourth is in preschool. I love hiking, camping, reading, and enjoying all of our amazing area's activities! I look forward to working with everyone!

Kurtycz, Kinnon

Job Titles:
  • Science

Kurtycz, Tara


Lachen, Lauren


Lauren Lachen

My name is Lauren Lachen, and I've been teaching and living in the Keweenaw since 2012. I grew up in Romeo, Michigan, and got my Bachelors of Arts in English from Oakland University, before going to Saginaw Valley State University where I got my teaching certificate for both English and Spanish. I started off as an AmeriCorps volunteer when I moved here, spent a year teaching at Lake Linden, and 5 years with Baraga High School. I have 3 little boys, and when my twins were born, I switched to teaching online for a few years so I could be home with them. All three will now be coming to L'Anse along with me. At home, we have a hobby farm called Giggling Goose Farm where we raise birds, and bake bread and treats for local farmer's markets, which has been a lot of fun. I have also been the Regional Administrator with International Cultural Exchange Services for the past 4 years, working to bring high school foreign exchange students to the Upper Peninsula, matching them with families, and guiding them through their year here. I am excited to be able to teach at L'Anse and reach a new group of kids, while still continuing to work with the exchange program which has become a part of me.

Lisa Cichosz

Job Titles:
  • Principal
My name is Lisa Cichosz and previously taught Middle School Math. I was born and raised in L'Anse. I received my Elementary Education degree with a major in math and minor in language arts from Oakland University. I also have a masters degree in Instruction from Northern Michigan University.

Madelyn Ogea


Maki, Kristine

Job Titles:
  • Social Worker

Marczak, Kristin


Markle, Tyler


Marsha Salo

Marsha Salo is a graduate of Houghton High School. She received her Bachelor's of Science Degree from Northern Michigan University with and Elementary Education major and an English and Speech minor. She received her Master's Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh as a Reading Specialist. She has spent most of her career teaching in Wisconsin at various levels. She currently resides in Hancock, and is happy to be back in the U.P.

Martinac, Katie

Job Titles:
  • Secretary

Maxson, Emily


MELISSA PAULSON

Job Titles:
  • Trustee
I graduated from L'Anse Area Schools in 1990 and reside in L'Anse with my husband, Charles, and 5 children. Currently, I have two Sophomore's and a Junior attending LHS. I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Management from Northern Michigan University in 1995 and obtained my Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education from Bay Mills Community College in 2015. I began teaching in Preschool in 2009 and discovered my passion for education. I currently teach for the Little Eagles GSRP Kindergarten Readiness Program at the Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College. I have been an active member of the L'Anse Area Schools Athletic Booster Club for the past 10 year and I am currently acting President. When I am not attending an athletic event you can usually find me outside! I love exploring the beautiful area we call home. I believe that a strong school system relies on a solid partnership with the community as a whole. It has been a pleasure to see the growth and progress LHS has had during the last 30 years! I look forward to serving on the School Board!

Melissa Scroggs

Job Titles:
  • Food Service Director
  • Principal
My name is Melissa Scroggs. I am the K-5 Elementary Principal and I previously taught Special Education for 20 years. I have two sons who graduated from L'Anse Area Schools.

Michelle Seppanen

Having grown up in Ontonagon, I was excited to become a teacher for L'Anse Area Schools in 1996! I had just graduated with honors with my Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education having majored in math and minored in science. While I have spent time as a middle school teacher, most of my career has been spent teaching first-graders! I have since attained a Master of Arts in Education with my courses focusing on language arts. As my students may tell you, I love reading and cannot name just one favorite book! When I am not at school, I love to spend time with my husband, Tim, our daughter, Aurora, and our three spoiled dogs! We love to enjoy our beautiful Lake Superior and all that our area has to offer in the summer. In the winter, you might find us snowshoeing or watching the Huskies play hockey! Please feel free to call, email or stop by!

Moore, Paul

Job Titles:
  • Special Education

Mr. Austin Keranen

Job Titles:
  • Chemistry & Science
Hello! My name is Mr. Austin Keranen and I started working at LAS in April of 2023. I teach classes in both middle and high school science. My biggest goal is to see all of my students succeed. I design my classes to have lots of labs and hands-on learning alongside applying the topics they are learning in class to the real world. In my free time I enjoy reading, walking, watching movies, and learning more about science! Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns. Go Hornets!

NICOLE FRISK

Job Titles:
  • Trustee
I have lived in L'Anse with my husband and daughter since 2008. We love living and raising our daughter here. She is currently a senior and will graduate this summer from LHS. Originally, I grew up in Clarksburg, Michigan (about 45 minutes away) and I graduated in 1997 from Westwood High School. I went on to Northern Michigan University where I received my Associate in Business Degree as a Legal Office Assistant. I currently work at the Baraga County Clerk's Office and have since June of 2021. Before that I spent about 7 years working for the L'Anse Area Schools as a Special Education Aide and then as the Jr./Sr. High School Secretary.

Osterman, Brooke

Job Titles:
  • School Nurse & CTE Health Careers

Paul Moore

Job Titles:
  • Special Education
I have been teaching in L'Anse for 20 years in the Special Education Resource Room working primarily with grades 7-12. I am also the school's Youth in Government Advisor. I can be found in room 316 or can be reached at extension 379. My e-mail at school is listed above. Please drop me a line through e-mail, if I can be of assistance to you or you have a question for me.

Perry, Brian


Poniatowski, Aaron


Rachel Cox

My name is Rachel Cox. I started teaching third grade at L'Anse Area Schools in 2010. I graduated from Ferris State University in 2005. In my spare time I enjoy running, spending time with my friends and family, and enjoying the great outdoors.

Rebecca Frost

Hello! My name is Rebecca Frost and this is my first year at L'Anse schools. I graduated from Kalamazoo College in 2007 with a degree in German Language and Literature, and then came up to the UP to go to Michigan Tech for graduate school. I earned my masters in Rhetoric and Technical Communication in 2010, and my PhD in Rhetoric, Theory and Culture in 2015. I've taught composition at both Tech and KBOCC, and I'm happy to be able to continue to call the UP home. I teach English III and NMU English, and I'm also a published author. In my free time, when I'm not reading or writing, I like to knit.

Richard Sarau

Mr. Sarau is new to L'Anse Area Schools this year & we are excited to have him join our team! His bio is forthcoming...

Risa Williamson

Job Titles:
  • Counselor & Foster Care Liaison
Hello! My name is Risa Williamson. I am the Kindergarten-6th grade School Guidance Counselor at L'Anse Area Schools. I graduated from University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire with a degree in Psychology. I worked in health care before pursuing my Masters Degree in Education Guidance Counseling K-12 from Northern Michigan University. I have worked as a Guidance Counselor since 2001 in the Baraga, L'Anse, and Hancock Districts. During my day, I see individual students, groups of students, consult and plan with teachers, parents and administration, provide monthly classroom lessons, and help with test coordination. In my free time, I like to camp, do home improvements, golf, coach softball, hike & explore, and travel.

Roth, Michael

Job Titles:
  • SUPERVISOR - Maintenance & Transportation

Rowlison, Jacqueline


Ruhman, David


Ryan Witting

Job Titles:
  • Special Education
After graduating from Michigan Technological University in 2003 and teaching locally for one school year, Ryan Witting moved to Arizona to embark on a near two-decade career in education. While in Arizona, Ryan taught every grade level (kindergarten through 12th grade) in various subjects such as; English Language Arts, U.S. Government, Free Enterprise Economics, Remedial Reading, English as a 2nd Language, Middle School Math, Yearbook/Journalism, Digital Photography, Graphic Design, K-8 Music and Elementary Special Education. Ryan's Yearbook/Journalism students received over 40 awards at both the state and national levels from The Arizona Interscholastic Press Association, Columbia Scholastic Press Association and The National Scholastic Press Association. Ryan is a former Governing Board Member of The Arizona Interscholastic Press Association. Ryan is a former recipient of The Freeman Hover Award for Excellence in Journalism Education. Ryan is excited to be teaching at C.J. Sullivan Elementary School and he is thankful to be back home in The Copper Country near his family.

Salmela, Kayli

Job Titles:
  • Substitute Teacher

Salo, Marsha


Sarah Briggs-McNeal

My name is Sarah Briggs, and I joined L'Anse Area Schools in 2020. Previously, I worked at Gwinn Middle and High School as an English and Special Education teacher. I graduated from Northern Michigan University in 2004 with a B.S. in Political Science/Psychology. I later decided to earn my teaching certification and have now been teaching for seven years. I am excited to be here! My husband and I are rock pickers, and we love this area. In my spare time, I also enjoy reading, gardening, canoeing, camping, and spending time with my family and critters.

Schumer, Anne


Scroggs, Melissa

Job Titles:
  • Food Service Director
  • Principal

Senske, Jamie


Seppanen, Michelle


Shelsey Mleko


Susan Tollefson

Job Titles:
  • Superintendent

Tara Kurtycz

My name is Tara Kurtycz. I graduated from Northern Michigan University in 2022 with a degree in English. I obtained my teaching certificate through the alternative certification route #T.E.A.C.H. in both K-12 Physical Education/Health and 6-12 English. I'm originally from the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, but I've lived in the U.P. since 2018 and now reside in L'Anse with my husband. I love all things related to athletics, and I'm excited to share that appreciation with the students at LAS. In my free time, I'm always looking for ways to enjoy being outside, reading, or spending time with family and friends.

Thor, April


Tollefson, Susan

Job Titles:
  • Superintendent

Tyler Belanger

Job Titles:
  • Math Teacher
Hi! My name is Tyler Belanger, and this year I will be teaching 8th grade math and Algebra 2/2A. I grew up in Marquette, MI and graduated from Marquette Senior High School in 2018. I attended Northern Michigan University where I got my degree in Secondary Education Mathematics. I did my student teaching in 6th grade at Bothwell Middle School . I am married, have a two year old son, and two dogs. In my free time I enjoy hiking and going to the beach. I am also an active member of the Michigan Army National Guard, where I am a Human Resources Specialist. This will be my first year teaching and I am so excited!

Tyler Markle

Hello, I am Tyler Markle. I am new to L'Anse, teaching 8th grade English, English IV, and Publications. I was born and raised in Gwinn, graduating from GHS in 2012. After high school I attended Northern Michigan University, receiving a B.S. in English: Creative Writing. For five years I worked at WLUC TV6 and FOX UP as an anchor, multimedia journalist, and technical media producer. During that time I got to travel across the Upper Peninsula and tell stories. In 2021, I made the decision to return to NMU for my Secondary English Teaching Certification, and after student teaching in Hancock, I found a job here in L'Anse. I love education and am actively furthering mine as well as I work towards my Master of Arts in Education Instruction with a concentration in Pedagogy online through NMU. I'm so excited to get into my first classroom and share my love of reading and writing with my students. When I'm not teaching, I like to spend time with my wife Alexzandra, who is earning her Ph.D. from Michigan Tech. I also love reading, writing, baking, hiking, and watching sports.

Uzzle, Tricia

Job Titles:
  • Accounting Clerk

Voskuhl, Darrin

Job Titles:
  • Director of Student Services & Athletic Director

Williamson, Risa

Job Titles:
  • Counselor & Foster Care Liaison

Witting, Ryan

Job Titles:
  • Special Education