• Ashley Bukowski n/a

    Sponsor Teacher, 504 Coordinator 

    Cell: 907-782-6478

    bukowski_ashley@asdk12.org

    I was born and raised in Florida but have always been an Alaskan at heart! I moved to Anchorage in 2016 and have been loving it here ever since. I have my bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice / Political Science and then went back to school in 2012 to earn my teaching certificate in Math K-12. I hold a masters' degree in Curriculum and Instruction and Educational Leadership. Prior to FPCS I taught 8th grade Math, Algebra, Geometry, and high school credit recovery.  

     

    I truly love the freedom that homeschool brings families and love the option to dual enroll through other educational programs. I am a huge advocate for college-ready students, and those who are unsure what they want to do after high school. Alaska has so many options for students who are struggling to earn their Highschool Diploma, and those who may want to enter the workforce or pursue a specialized trade after Highschool. 

    When I am not working, I enjoy getting outside for hikes, kayaking, four wheeling, boating, camping, fishing, cross country skiing and taking our dogs for walks. I love the outdoors and believe any bad day can be wiped away with some time in our mountains.

    I look forward to getting to know you and your students and helping you along your educational journey.  

     

  • Chantal Davis n/a

    Sponsor Teacher

    Cell: 907-744-3593

    davis_chantal@asdk12.org

     

    This is my first year at Family  Partnership, however I have been an educator with the Anchorage School District since 2004. I am originally from Washington state, where I graduated from Cedar Park Christian School. I went on to Central Washington University to pursue bachelor's degrees in both Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. After graduating in 2004, I moved to Alaska and began teaching reading at Clark Middle School. In 2006, I moved to Hanshew Middle School where I taught both 7th and 8th grade Language Arts, as well as reading classes. I have enjoyed my 18 years teaching middle school! In addition to teaching, I have coached many sports. My favorite sport to coach would have to be volleyball, but I enjoyed my time as a cross country running, basketball, and track and field coach.

     

    I have 2 children of my own, my daughter is a sophomore and my son is in 8th grade. We spend the majority of our time together at various sports practices and games. They are very active and spend their time playing volleyball, football, corss country skiing, basketball, softball, baseball, running track, fishing, riding jet skis and four wheelers. I love watching my children participate in the things they love to do. In my free time, I am an avid reader and spend lots of time with our French Bulldog, Oakley.

     

    I am excited to be a part of the Family Partnership family and I look forward to working with you and your family to tailor your homeschooling program to your children's educational needs. This is something I am passionate about. I can't wait! This is going to be a great year.

  • Heather Deberry Heather DeBerry

    Sponsor Teacher

    Cell: 907-538-8751

    deberry_heather@asdk12.org

     

    I am a lifelong Alaskan, a wife, a mother of three, and a passionate homeschooler. If I am not doing my teaching duties at home or at school you will find me outdoors. I love to hike, bike, kayak, camp and explore new and familiar places with my family and friends as much as possible. 


    I am happy to have the opportunity to work with homeschool families here in my hometown of Anchorage Alaska. I have a Bachelor of Science in Education, with a minor in Sociology from the University of Alaska Anchorage. I spent 10 years in early education teaching pre-school and kindergarten aged children in the Palmer area, and then moved out of state where I taught fourth and first grades in public school classrooms. I missed homeschooling and the educational opportunities it provides for my family, so I returned to homeschooling and joined Family Partnership in 2016. I am truly grateful for this opportunity to share the homeschool journey with our families here at Family Partnership Charter School. 

  • Morgan Duclos 

    Migrant Education-Not accepting families

    Cell: 907-310-6880

    duclos_morgan@asdk12.org

    I am Alaska born and bred, going to various ASD schools, and graduating from Dimond High School in 2013. During my time in college, I circumnavigated the globe with the program Semester at Sea in 2015, visiting more than 13 countries and sailing through the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic Oceans. I graduated from the University of Alaska Anchorage with a Journalism and Psychology Degree in 2018 and began my career at ASD in their Communications and Community Outreach Department. I served in that role until 2020, when I became a Student Success Coach for the Migrant Education Program (MEP) working in multiple ASD schools. I am new to Family Partnership as of 2023, and I am thrilled to serve the MEP families at our school. 

    I enjoy keeping busy—adventuring in Alaska, travelling, getting outside as much as possible, reading, writing, baking, and cooking. I truly believe in being a “life-long” learner and have taken numerous classes with Alaska Works Partnership, like Heavy Equipment Operating, Carpentry, Ironworks and Welding, and Plumbing, Pipefitting, and Welding. I met my husband when we were in sixth grade. We don’t have kids yet, but have two dogs who love to adventure with us.  

    I am looking forward to working with FPCS staff and families to support the challenging academic needs of our unique community! 

     

     

     

     

  • Teresa Hintze Teresa Hintze

    Sponsor Teacher,  7-12 SPED Liaison

    Cell: 907-538-8752

    hintze_teresa@asdk12.org

     

    Born in Idaho and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, I have been working for the Anchorage School District for many years. For 15 of those years I worked in the Deaf Education program and taught all subjects at all levels, elementary school, middle school, and high school. During my tenure, I also had the pleasure of assisting my sisters in their homeschooling endeavors, including acting as a sponsor teacher for them at Family Partnership Charter School. I have been with FPCS for several years now and have a unique, dual role here at Family Partnership. First I am a sponsor teacher and second I am the special education liaison. In my role as the Special Education Liaison, I coordinate meetings and facilitate communication between FPCS families and the Special Education teams at their neighborhood schools. While FPCS is not allowed to offer special education services, as part of the Anchorage School District, our families are able to access any services at their neighborhood school. In my role as a sponsor teacher, I have the pleasure of working directly with families in supporting parent directed education. I love this program and I am so excited to be part of the homeschooling community. 

  • Nicole Holta

    Curriculum Coordinator-Not accepting families

    cell: 907-764-2091

    holta_nicole@asdk12.org

     

    I am originally from Lafayette, Louisiana and have called Anchorage home since 1999. I graduated from Dimond High School and attended the University of Alaska Anchorage where I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. I taught 2nd grade in the Anchorage School District for 12 years.This will be my third year at Family Partnership Charter School. I have been a Sponsor Teacher and am currently beginning my 2nd year as the Curriculum Coordinator. I get the opportunity to review all the Pre-Approval forms, new curriculum, and learn about amazing new things in education! My own children have attended stellar summer camps thanks to you all. I have loved the opportunity to diversify my journey as an educator in this specialized homeschool model. 

     

    My husband and I have two daughters, ages 10 and 6. We love hiking, bike riding, sledding, cross country skiing, and visiting the many great parks in Anchorage.

     

    I am very eager to assist families with their homeschool planning and delivery. I look forward to helping you achieve a rewarding individualized educational experience for your family. Let's embark on a great year together!

     

  • Kristin Jackson 

    Sponsor Teacher-FULL, Not accepting families

    Cell: 907-538-8753

    jackson_kristin@asdk12.org

     

    I have been with Family Partnership since 2006, and I love the opportunity to partner with families! I graduated from Wheaton College with a B.A. in Elementary Education and have continued my professional development, taking classes through UAA. For five years, I taught second grade at Klatt Elementary. I transferred to Family Partnership to spend more time at home with my children and have the opportunity to work with students in a more individualized setting. As a teacher at FPCS, I have been a sponsor teacher for kindergarten through 12th grade students as well as taught elementary enrichment classes in all subject areas including hands-on science, writing, and math games. My husband and I have four children ranging from ages 11 through 17. My children attend Family Partnership part time or full time, and I have the privilege of being an integral part of their education. As a family, we enjoy camping, fishing, and exploring Alaska. I grew up in Minnesota, making Alaska my home now with my family for over 20 years. I love spending time with my family, hiking, reading, and just being outdoors. I look forward to another great year sponsoring families here at Family Partnership! 

     

  • Teresa Kress 

    Sponsor Teacher, Student Government

    Cell: 907-538-8759

    kress_teresa@asdk12.org

     

    I am a home-schooling mother of four (ages 19-25 years old) with a B.A. in Music/Theater and a Master of Arts in Teaching and am a certificated Principal. My areas of specialty are: Music (private voice & violin lessons, Swing Choir, and chamber orchestras); World Languages: (French 1, 2, & 3); and Social Studies at the Middle School and High School level. My largest class was Kids for Character, where 24 kids gathered to learn character, music and performance skills! 

    My four children were with Family Partnership for their entire educational experience and graduated in this amazing program! I thoroughly enjoy sponsoring families, encouraging and helping students reach their full potential!

  • Kjirsten Langland

    Sponsor Teacher

    Cell: 907-538-8761

    langland_kjirsten@asdk12.org

     

    Alaska is home and I am homegrown! Born and educated in Anchorage, I graduated from West Anchorage High School. I attended the University of San Diego and graduated with a degree in Diversified Liberal Arts and my teaching credential. I am "Highly Qualified" to teach K-8th grades and have taught with the Anchorage School District since 1997. 

     

    I am a mom of 3 kids that I adore and we, along with my hubby, love to ski, hike, fly, travel and enjoy all that is Alaska.

     

    I am honored to be a part of the Family Partnership Charter School Family. I love working with our FPCS families to help them determine the best ways to educate their children while discovering how fun learning can be. Welcome to FPCS!

  •  

    Melissa Lipinski Melissa Lipinski

    Sponsor Teacher

    Cell: 907-744-7716

    lipinski_melissa@asdk12.org

     

    I am a Southeast girl born and raised in Ketchikan, Alaska. I moved to Anchorage for my second year of college to attend the University of Alaska, where I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. While at UAA, I met my husband and we started to plan and dream about a life together in Anchorage. We continue to live, plan, and dream, but now part of those dreams includes two awesome high school boys. Our family enjoys being outdoors at the lake, baseball, and aviation. I also enjoy being in the kitchen, trying new recipes or improving family favorites, running, and walks/talks with friends and family to help keep me balanced.

     

    From a young age, I wanted to be a teacher and have seen that dream realized in many ways. I did my student teaching in 1st grade, enjoyed a long-term substitute position in 2nd grade, taught 5th and 6th grade at Bayshore Elementary School, stayed home to focus on my own children's development for 15 years, going back to teach math at Wendler Middle School and now am very excited to work with homeschooling families at Family Partnership Charter School. As a parent and teacher, I have always strived to find the best educational path for my children. I am excited to guide families and help them make the best educational choices for their children.

  • Lynnetta Marcellus 

    Sponsor Teacher

    Cell: 907-538-6741

    marcellus_lynnetta@asdk12.org

     

    I graduated in 1995 with a B.S Ed degree in Secondary Math and History (grades 6-12) from the University of Idaho. In 2015 I finished my Master’s Degree in ED Leadership  from the University of Alaska Anchorage.  My husband is in the military and we have had the opportunity to live in various places, such as Idaho, Germany, Missouri, Alabama, Delta Junction, Wasilla, and now Eagle River. I was blessed to teach in some of those places we traveled to, such as Idaho, Missouri, Delta Junction, Wasilla and now for more than 13 years in Anchorage at FPCS. I taught in the classroom for over 15 years. I have taught 7th grade math, 8th grade math, pre-algebra, algebra I/II, geometry, applied math, consumer math, precalculus, calculus, geography, US history, Western Civilization, Health, and P.E. I also coached high school volleyball and track. I enjoy running, hiking, water-skiing, snow skiing, and just being with my family. 


    Working at FPCS has allowed me to home school my own children while pursuing what I love, which is to teach math and support parents who choose to home school. Both of my children have graduated from FPCS and are currently attending college.

     

    I believe home schooling is the best gift we can give our children. I also like helping parents become more confident in their ability to teach their children. I believe parents know their children better than anyone else and, with the partnership of teachers, they become the best teacher to their children. I would love to get a chance to visit with you as you embark on this wonderful journey of homeschooling.

  •  

    Laurie Matthews

    Dean of Students

    907-742-3705

    matthews_laurie@asdk12.org

     

     

    I am from Fairbanks, and I attended UAF, earning my bachelor's degree in education in 1999. My husband and I moved our family to Eagle River in 2000. I taught for the Anchorage School District for five years; first as a second-grade teacher at Tudor Elementary for one year, and then as a middle school language arts teacher at Gruening Middle School. I took a break from the classroom when our youngest was born and started a business teaching homeschooled students math and writing, which I continued for 14 years. During this time, I also tutored public school students in most subjects. My husband and I cared for children as therapeutic foster parents for 3 years. I returned to Anchorage School district as a sponsor teacher for Family Partnership in 2020.  I have recently completed my master’s degree in educational administration through Chadron State College..

     

    Our homeschooling journey began when our son started 1st grade, and he is now a junior. While it hasn't been easy, teaching my own child has been an absolute joy. When people ask us why we homeschool, the answer is immediate; we just really like it. One aspect of being a homeschooling parent that I have highly valued is the ability to always choose the best possible curriculum to complement my son's academic strengths and support the areas that I was concerned with. Sometimes this has meant reaching out to my sponsor teacher and brainstorming curriculum choices that may be a better fit and then pivoting for success. Flexibility and solid guidance are the keys. Your sponsor teachers are here to assist you in selecting the right fit of curriculum and help you make your choice to homeschool work for your family. I am honored to make this transition from sponsor teacher to Dean of Students and to now serve the families, teachers, and staff of Family Partnership.

  • Erika Minich n/a

    Sponsor Teacher, 504 Coordinator

    Cell: 907-538-6748

    minich_erika@asdk12.org

     

    Hello! Alaska has been home for most of my life. I was raised in the Interior and after enough cold winters, I attended Eastern New Mexico University where I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Education. I have been with ASD for 24 years and have taught most grade levels to some capacity in a variety of settings. Secondary math has been my interest and the area I have taught the most.

     

    When I'm not working, I love spending time outdoors,going on walks and tending to my flowers. I also enjoy  practicing yoga, watercolor, and traveling. My family includes two wonderful kids who are now both young adults.We're glad to have them around still and, as family, year-round we like to spend time together at Big Lake.

     

    I'm excited to have the opportunity to help your family navigate the homeschool world. My goal is for you to have a stress-free and successful year. I look forward to working together to make your homeschool vision a reality.

  •  

    Jennifer Ouellette Jennifer Ouellette

    Sponsor Teacher.  K-6 SPED Liaison

    Cell: 907-310-9354

    ouellette_jennifer@asdk12.org

     

     

    My life has been full of extensive opportunities to learn about family, community, and education. I taught in Thailand, Colorado, and Alaska. Traveling, raising a family, exploring the arts, taking time for hobbies and teaching shape my outlook. Life must be approached with love and optimism. I am excited to be a part of this team in bringing your opportunities to engage and enrich your child's life with an optimistic approach.

     

    I am certified in Elementary Education and Special Education. I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education in 1998. I taught in a variety of elementary schools, stayed home to raise my children and also explored other career opportunities. In Colorado, I worked as a preschool teacher and substitute teacher. I also taught English to children in Thailand. Locally, I worked as a general education teacher and also a special education teacher in ASD. Under the Nenana School District, I worked in a homeschool program as a teacher assistant. This position allowed me to support teachers and students in a variety of ways. Tutoring high school students and supporting them with life and educational goals, taught me that homeschooling is not just another "option" but the "best option" for many students. Having the ability to work closely with your child and watch them grow is a beautiful opportunity and one I look forward to doing with you.

     

    I enjoy camping, biking, hiking, rock climbing, gardening and making jewelry. I find these things, when I make time for them, bring me joy and balance in life. Finding what we love in life is a blessing. I hope you find homeschooling a blessing for you and your children!

  • Karin Owens  n/a

    Sponsor Teacher

    Cell: 907-538-2417

    owens_karin@asdk12.org

     

    I was born in Anchorage and have lived in Alaska most of my life. I graduated from the University of Notre Dame and received my teaching degree from the University of Indiana. I have thirteen years of classroom teaching experience in both private and public schools. My most unusual job was as a principal/teacher in a one-room K-12 school on the Alaska/Canadian border. 

     

    For the past ten years, I have homeschooled my own children. I joined Family Partnership as a parent five years ago. I have seven children ranging in ages from five to twenty-five. I enjoy spending time with my husband and children, serving as an American Heritage Girl unit leader, and being involved in my church community.

     

    I am now delighted to be part of the FPCS staff. My experiences as a homeschooling mom, classroom teacher and Family Partnership parent have prepared me for the role of sponsor teacher. Whether you are new to homeschooling, have students enrolled in a private school, or are a homeschool veteran, I look forward to assisting you with your homeschooling needs and goals.

     

     

     

     

  • Lena Palmer n/a

    Lena is not taking new students for the 2023/24 school year.

    Sponsor Teacher

    Cell: 907-317-1473

    palmer_lena@asdk12.org

     

    Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, I have called Anchorage home since 1999. I have taught with ASD for more than 20 years in a wide variety of roles, from 8th grade Language Arts, to Classical Mythology with Seniors, to most recently the Seminar Program at Service High School (English, American and World History) and everything in between! In addition, I have taught online classes through ASD for over ten years.

     

    I enjoy spending time with my family, which consists of my husband and my 14-year-old son. We enjoy mountain biking, hiking and Nordic ski touring together. I also have two cuddly dogs and a spoiled cat, and I love them all.

     

    My personal hobby is trail and mountain running. After many years of hitting the pavement in road marathons, I have moved on to trail ultra events, and am so excited to try my first 100 miler this fall! I also am a "winter person" and love Nordic skiing and fat tire biking. Other loves include reading and cooking, and sometimes reading about cooking. I am very interested in culinary history!

     

    Choice is always something that has been a priority to me in regard to my students. I am thrilled to be a part of Family Partnership team this year and to help our families create educational paths that work for them.

  • Dr. Jessica Parker 

    Principal 

    Office: 907-742-3701

    parker_jessica@asdk12.org

    This is my fourth year as Principal of Family Partnership Charter School. I am a long-time educator of more than 20 years. I have a Bachelors and Masters Degree in Communication and Administration from Dallas Baptist University, and earned my Doctorate in Educational Leadership. I am actively involved in the ASL teaching field and serve as the National ASL Honor Society Coordinator. My husband, Jeremy and I have 3 children. My  oldest daughter is a recent graduate of FPCS and attends Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington. My two boys continue to be homeschooled with FPCS. My favorite activities are watching my boys play hockey, walking my dog Akira, and listening to my daughter play piano. What I love about Family Partnership is FAMILY is at the heart of our school. FPCS has a strong tradition of providing the ultimate flexibility in educational options for Anchorage families.

    It is my privilege to lead FPCS and the many talented staff here! My goal is to continue to provide a partnership with our families to increase student achievement. I look forward to interacting with all of you this school year! 

     

  • Bethany Peters

    Full-Time Enrichment Teacher-Not accepting families

    Cell: 907-744-7271

    peters_bethany@asdk12.org 

     

    I was born in Anchorage and grew up in Southern California and the Eagle River/Chugiak area. I graduated from Chugiak High School and earned a B.A. in Foreign Languages from UAF in 2001. While earning my bachelors, I studied abroad for a year in both Venezuela and Spain. In 2010, I earned a Master of Arts in Teaching from UAA. I substitute taught for several years in the Anchorage School District, which included many long-term sub jobs teaching Spanish and other subjects. In 2014, I accepted a job teaching middle school Math in Utqiagvik (formerly Barrow). I spent three years teaching in Utqiagvik before returning to the Anchorage area in 2017. Since then, I have taught Middle School Science at Central Middle School, 5th-8th grade small group Language Arts classes at Family Partnership and had the joy of starting the FPCS Enrichment Program in the fall of 2018. I have a 20-year-old daughter and we have a Schnoodle, Ruby a.k.a. my little shadow, who has enjoyed having us home more in the past year. I enjoy our beautiful state through camping, hiking and four-wheeling with family.  

     

    I am thrilled to be able to continue the FPCS Enrichment Program for a fourth year. I am honored to support and partner with parents who are highly motivated and passionate about providing a well-rounded education for their children. I'm looking forward to another great school year!

     

  • Lillian Peters n/a

    Enrichments Teaching Assistant-Not accepting families

    Cell: 907-310-5862

    peters_lillian@asdk12.org

     

    I was born and raised in the Anchorage area. I was able to experience the culture and diversity of Barrow, Alaska when my family moved there in 2014. A few years later, we moved back to Anchorage. Prior to graduating from Benny Benson Alternative High School, I attended FPCS. While attending FPCS, I was a teaching assistant to earn credits. In addition, I attended the Early Childhood Education course at King Tech High School. That course, along with being raised by a teacher, helped spark my joy of teaching children. When I'm not in the classroom, I enjoy spending time with friends and family having outdoor adventures with my dog, and playing video games.

    I am excited to be back at FPCS full time this year. Last year I was the enrichment program's temporary part time T.A. While I was a student with FPCS I loved the environment as well as all the lovely faces. I've built a close rapport with office staff and students. I couldn't be more excited about being the enrichment program T.A.

     

  •  

    Sarah Petersen

    Sponsor Teacher

    Cell: 907-310-9140

    petersen_sarah@asdk12.org

     

    I was born and raised in Montana, but now have called Alaska my home for over 15 years. I have a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Montana State University and a Master's Degree in Educational Technology from the University of Alaska Southeast.

     

    I have worked for Anchorage School District since 2005. In my time with ASD, I have worked as a classroom teacher, Educational Technology Specialist/IT Collaborator, and as a Teacher Expert in STEM Science, and now a sponsor teacher for Family Partnership. I am also on the ASTE (Alaska Society for Technology in Education) Board and Apple Distinguished Educator.

     

    We have two children ages 8 & 9, and we are very excited to be homeschooling then with Family Partnership. I love skiing, rock climbing, gardening and spending time with my precious family! I am excited to team with you and assist in your homeschooling journey!

  •  

    Megan Schneider 

    Sponsor Teacher

    Cell: 907-717-3475

    schneider_megan@asdk12.org

     

    I grew up in Homer, Alaska, where I was raised by my parents and by the woods. I struggled with Dyslexia in my early years, but my parents used homeschool to make education meet me where I was. This blessed me with an enthusiasm for reading and a desire to pass on my love of learning to others. 

     

    I pursued a degree in Elementary Education from UAA, and have experienced teaching in many settings, including internationally. I love the way that learning can be a bridge between cultures, and truly be made to meet any student. I taught several years of early elementary grades with ASD (I have a soft spot for Kindergarten) and am so happy to merge my professional training with my personal connection to homeschooling as a Sponsor Teacher. 

     

    My husband and I have two children (ages 9 and 7), and we are so excited to be homeschooling them! As a family, we love getting out into nature; hiking, foraging, and gardening. I also find restoration in literature (both personally and sharing it with my friends and family). 

  • Aimee Sims  Aimee Sims

    Sponsor Teacher

    Cell: 538-6742

    sims_aimee@asdk12.org

     

    Homeschooling is amazing. I have four children. Iain (graduated in 2019), Nathaniel (graduated in 2021), Johanna (11th grade), and Stuart (10th grade). Our family has chosen a variety of ways to educate our children. We began with homeschooling, then attended both neighborhood and alternative schools, then went back to homeschooling with Family Partnership Charter School.

     

    I love each day, as it is always an adventure teaching my children at home! I love to see that "ah-ha" look in a child's eyes when they have learned or discovered something new and exciting. It is so rewarding as we learn together as a family and discover new and amazing things. I have learned so much as I have assisted families in the past few years.

     

    I have a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, a minor in Bible, and a specialization in Political Studies earned from The Master's College in Santa Clarita, California. Since graduation in 1997, I have actively taught in the community and have received extensive training in teaching reading, writing, and spelling using a multi-sensory reading program called the Slingerland Method. These past eighteen years, I have had the opportunity to be a sponsor teacher and small group instructor with Family Partnership. I look forward to working specifically as a sponsor teacher and giving the families guidance to help their children become successful in their education. 


    I look forward to this new school year and the challenges and opportunities we will experience together on this homeschooling journey.

  • Lucas Soden n/a

    Sponsor Teacher

    Cell: 907-538-6743

    soden_lucas@asdk12.org

     

    I am originally from Wisconsin, where I grew up in a close-knit family. Both of my younger siblings are also teachers. In 2009, I came to Alaska to visit friends and felt at home as soon as I stepped off the plane. I've been here ever since. I enjoy spending time camping and skiing with my wife, our two elementary-age kids, and our 10-year-old husky lab, Buddy. I've been into running for the past few years and have recently started ultra running; this summer I will be attempting my first 50-mile trail race. I also play guitar and was a member for many years of a local bluegrass band, Hot Dish.

    I have 15 years of teaching experience at the middle school level, and a master's degree in elementary and middle school education. I have worked with a wide range of students throughout my teaching career. I have taught all core subjects at the middle school level, but I have spent most of my time as a 7th and 8th grade Language Arts teacher working with students to develop their writing and reading comprehension skills. In addition to teaching Language Arts, I have coached debate, Battle of the Books, x-country running, x-country skiing and wrestling.

     

    I am very excited to begin my first year as a sponsor teacher at Family Partnership Charter School and to work with families to help them make the best educational choices for their own children.

     

     

     

  •  

    Shelby Theriault

    Sponsor Teacher, NHS Sponsor

    Cell: 907-764-3984

    theriault_shelby@asdk12.org

     

    I love my job as sponsor teacher at Family Partnership Charter School! Here's a little about me..... I am a life-long Alaskan. I graduated from UAA with honors and served as Vice President of the Kappa Delta Pi Education Honor Society. I have been a highly qualified classroom teacher with the Anchorage School District for 23 years. I have taught almost every elementary school grade. I have also taught classes and was a sponsor teacher for Family Partnership for 4 years, grades K-12 and was delighted to return in 2020. I have run Science Fairs for over 20 years and I am the advisor for Family Partnership's National Honor Society. 

     

    As a family, we love the outdoors! We love to camp, fish and hike. We also love baseball! We have a son that is going into 10th grade this year, and he has been dually enrolled, which means that he has had some classes through South High School and some classes through Family Partnership. He plays on South High School's baseball team. He also wrestles on their team.  I'm also a horse person. I grew up showing horses and continue my love of equines.

     

    I am passionate about homeschooling and all of the opportunities it offers our students. I love helping parents to guide their children's education. I look forward to getting to know you and your family!

  • Andrea Ward Andrea Ward

    Sponsor Teacher

    Cell: 907-538-8735

    ward_andrea@asdk12.org

    Born and raised in Anchorage, I am a proud product of ASD schools. After earning a psychology degree from Northern Arizona University and 7 years in Oregon working with disabled teens and young adults, I realized my true passion for teaching and returned to Alaska to pursue my Elementary Education degree. Following several years of teaching I took a break to raise my two lovely daughters, who are now college-age. During this period, I had the pleasure of homeschooling my youngest daughter for her final three years of high school, an experience I cherish. 

     

    In 2015 I joined Family Partnership as a small group classroom teacher, teaching 2nd and 4th grades. I transitioned to the position of Sponsor Teacher in 2019, where I have found great joy assisting families in their homeschooling journey.  

     

    In my free time I love running, biking, gardening, reading, bird watching, and, most of all, spending time with my daughters. 

     

    The freedom and choice homeschooling gives families is truly wonderful, and I am thrilled to support you and your family as you embark on this exciting journey. I am confident we can work together to create a customized and fulfilling educational experience that meets the unique needs of your family.  

     

  •  

    JaNice West n/a

    Sponsor Teacher/ELL Coordinator

    Cell: 907-764-8165

    west_janice@asdk12.org

    As someone who grew up and continues to live in the Anchorage area education has always been a priority for me. I obtained a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from the University of Alaska, Anchorage, and since then, I have taught in various schools over several years. Currently, I am pursuing a master's in teaching and Learning to further enhance my abilities as an educator and a sponsor teacher. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is working with students and their families to develop personalized learning plans that help students reach their full potential. 
     

    Working at Family Partnership has been the highlight of my career so far. It’s a unique opportunity for me to be a part of my families homeschool path while also helping others design theirs. This year I begin a new homeschooling journey with my kindergartener. I am excited to share my personal experiences with families and support them throughout their homeschooling journey.Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, which includes my husband and our four children- Aidan, Avalee, Eleanor, and Donovan. We love to engage in various outdoor activities during our downtime, including going to the park, camping, and enjoying the beautiful Alaskan weather.

    I am thrilled to be a part of Family Partnership's team and look forward to helping families and students grow and succeed. It’s going to be a great year! 

     

  •  

     

    Abby Wondzell

    Migrant Education-Not accepting families

    Cell: 907-717-8838

     wondzell_abigail@asdk12.org

     

    Along with being a lifelong Alaskan, I am also a lifelong hockey player! I grew up at the ice rinks in Anchorage watching my Dad skate and then I spent most of my time on the ice myself. In addition to continuing to play, I also coach and have had the chance to coach several championship teams at both the State and National levels. I am looking forward to utilizing the knowledge that I have as a coach and applying it towards mentoring, supporting, and encouraging the students and families that I will be working with. I am thrilled to have the chance to be working with students that are homeschooled! Kindergarten through 5th grade, my mother taught my siblings and I at home through the CyberLynx homeschool program. We loved the experience of learning together and getting the chance to grow and experience something new each day. After enrolling in public school, I attended Begich Middle School followed by Bartlett High School where each of my siblings also attended. I graduated from UAA with a Bachelor of Health Sciences degree alongside a minor in Psychology. I have been a fulltime substitute teacher with the District where I had the opportunity to work in many different classroom settings at a variety of grade levels. I loved getting to know the students in the classrooms that I substituted for frequently and I look forward to building supportive and empowering relationships with the students that I will be working with in the future!