"Mr. Benedict is passionate and funny. His teaching has advanced my kid's writing skills greatly!"
Melissa W. Parent
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"My son had a great time in Mrs. Mayrens' class. She is a fun loving teacher and very willing to meet her students where they're at and encourage them to do their very best!"
Amy T. Parent
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"Mrs. Green has a special gift and I wish someday I can be just like her."
Matthew N. Student
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Average Years of Full-Time Teacher Experience
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Percent of Full-Time Teachers with Master's Degrees
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Number of Full-Time Teachers
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St. John's Lutheran School Teachers
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Gretal Ehrhard - Pre-Kindergarten Age 3 The 2023/24 school year marks Mrs. Ehrhard's second year as St. John's PreK-3 teacher! She holds a BA in Theology with a concentration in Family Ministry from Concordia University in River Forest, and earned a Director of Christian Education Certification in 2005. Before joining the St. John's community, she founded and directed a preschool at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Dwight, IL for four years. Mrs. Ehrhard has also held various roles in the New Haven, MO school district. These include, Early Childhood Home Visitor, Substitute Teacher, and School Secretary. Mrs. Ehrhard has been involved in the St. John's community since 2019 when her husband, Pastor Jacob Ehrhard, became the St. John's Church Pastor. They have a daughter, Anna, who is a Kindergarten student at St. John's Lutheran School. What is Mrs. Ehrhard's favorite Bible verse? "Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." Psalm 46:10 What does Mrs. Ehrhard love about St. John's? "The smaller school environment gives students and families a chance to get to know each other and form friendships outside of school. It is great to experience this firsthand as I have made friends with some of the other moms in my daughter's class. I also love the Christian aspect of the school as students learn about Jesus everyday." What other roles does Mrs. Ehrhard have at St. John's? "I play the handbells and sometimes the flute at church and will occasionally play during school chapel as well. I became very involved with the PTL during my first year as a parent in the 2021/22 school year, and I have been an active PTL leader since then." Mrs. Ehrhard - Pre-Kindergarten Age 3
[email protected] |
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Christina Yerkes - Pre-Kindergarten Age 4 Mrs. Yerkes has over 19 years of experience working with children of all ages and abilities, and has been a teacher since 2011. This is her 7th year at St. John's. Prior to St. John’s, she worked as a preschool teacher at Concordia University Chicago's Early Childhood Center. She is a graduate of Concordia University Chicago and has a Masters of Arts in Teaching Early Childhood certification. What is Mrs. Yerkes’s favorite Bible verse? “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 What does Mrs. Yerkes love about St. John's? "I love that St. John's is spreading the word of God and teaching God's love throughout all aspects of learning." What other role does Mrs. Yerkes have at St. John’s? "I help organize Lutheran Schools Week activities." |
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Michelle Wo - Kindergarten The 2023/24 school year marks Mrs. Wo's third year as St. John's Kindergarten teacher! She earned her Degree in Early Childhood Education from Concordia University Chicago and has been teaching for 30 years. Over the years, she has taught PreK, Kindergarten, and 1st grade. Mrs. Wo has two children in high school and her husband is a retired police officer. What is Mrs. Wo's favorite Bible verse? "Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100 What does Mrs. Wo love about St. John's? “I am fairly new to St. John's and I love how the staff welcomed me in and are so friendly and helpful! I also love teaching Kindergarten as the students are curious and love learning!” Mrs. Wo - Kindergarten
[email protected] |
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isa Schuemer - 1st Grade Mrs. Schuemer has completed 33 years of teaching experience in Chicago area schools and the 2023/24 school year marks her fourth year at St. John's. She is a graduate of Concordia University Chicago where she received a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and a Master's degree in Reading Specialist. In addition to teaching in Lutheran schools, she has also taught as an adjunct professor in the English department at College of DuPage. She has experience coaching various sports teams as well as directing school musicals. She has been married to her husband for 30 years and together they have two sons. What is Mrs. Schuemer's favorite Bible verse? “As for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more.” Psalm 71:14 What does Mrs. Schuemer love about St. John's? “I love that the St. John's community puts great importance on the children and their futures. St. John's sees the potential and gifts in all children, and it's a safe place for them to learn and grow academically and spiritually." Mrs. Schuemer - 1st Grade
[email protected] |
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Veronica Gahgan - 2nd Grade A second-career teacher, Mrs. Gahgan holds a BA in Elementary Education and an MA in Reading Education, both from Concordia University Chicago. She previously taught in the primary grades at Lutheran Unity/St. Paul-Canfield, and also taught 3rd through 8th grade English at Bethesda International Academy. The 2024-2025 school year marks her sixth year of teaching at St. John’s. Mrs. Gahgan has been married to her husband, Jeff, for 27 years, and they have three daughters and two grandchildren. In addition to spending time with her family, she enjoys reading and cheering for her beloved Cubs! What is Mrs. Gahgan's favorite Bible verse? "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13 Why does Mrs. Gahgan love St. John's? “More than just a school, St. John’s is truly a family in which you see evidence of God’s work and His love reflected through His people in ways both big and small. We know His presence in our lives each day by the people He surrounds us with to remind us of His mercy, grace, and unfailing love. It’s a joy to serve at St. John’s and to share the good news of our salvation through Jesus with the children and their families, as well as with others both in and outside of our St. John’s community.” |
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Bonnie Mayrens - 3rd Grade Ms. Mayrens has completed 38 years in the Lutheran teaching ministry, 19 of which have been at St. John's. She is also a graduate of John's! Ms. Mayrens received her Bachelor's Degree in elementary education with concentrations in psychology and English literature, and holds a Master's Degree in reading instruction from Concordia University Chicago. What is Ms. Mayrens’ favorite Bible verse? “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31 What does Ms. Mayrens love about St. John’s? “I love St. John’s because it’s my home away from home. I attended St. John’s as a student from 1968-1977. I was blessed to attend school in a place where I was reminded daily of God’s care for me. Now, as a teacher here, I have the joy of sharing that faith with others. I love that this is not only a school, but a community.” What other role does Ms. Mayrens have at St. John’s? “I serve as the faculty advisor for the Lutheran Junior Honor Association." |
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Amanda Yamate - 4th Grade Mrs. Yamate lives in Chicago with her husband, Doug, and has served for 13 years as a Lutheran educator in the Northern Illinois District. She has taught in elementary and early childhood classrooms and has served as an adjunct faculty member in the College of Education at North Park University. She earned her Bachelors of Arts in Lutheran Elementary Education from Concordia University Chicago in 2010 and her Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Concordia University Nebraska in 2014. The 2023/24 school year marks her 4th year as the 4th grade teacher at St. John's, but she is also a St. John's alum! Mrs. Yamate was one of two recipients of CLEF's Above and Beyond Award in 2022. In addition to teaching, Mrs. Yamate has enjoyed serving as a Vacation Bible School supervisor, cheerleading coach, and member of the NID Teachers Conference Committee. What is Mrs. Yamate's favorite Bible verse? "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." Proverbs: 3:5 What does Mrs. Yamate love about St. John’s? "I have deeply loved St. John's since I was six years old, and I thank God every day for the faculty, staff, and families I have met. This place is filled with warmth and a common dedication to strong academics and servant leadership. I'm always excited for every new school year!" |
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Linsey Baldridge - 5th Grade Mrs. Baldridge is from Chicago and currently lives with her husband, Michael. She graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in American History from Dominican University in 2015 and obtained her Master’s Degree in Teaching from Louis University in 2017. Mrs. Baldridge is entering her 7th year of teaching. Mrs. Baldridge loves playing video games and watching movies with her husband! What is Mrs. Baldridge most excited about at St. John’s? "I am excited about the family-feel community at St. John’s and look forward to helping my students become lifelong learners!" What is her favorite Bible verse? “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20 |
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Rachael Franklin - High School Prep Science & Social Studies Mrs. Franklin completed 3 years of teaching in Danville, IL before coming to St. John’s, and is in her 12th year of teaching at St. John's. She graduated from Concordia University Chicago with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education, and received a Master's Degree in Educational Technology from Concordia University, Wisconsin. She teaches 6th-8th grade science and social studies and serves as the 6th grade homeroom teacher. What is Mrs. Franklin’s favorite Bible verse? “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 What does Mrs. Franklin love about St. John’s? “I love St. John's because the teachers, staff, congregation, and parents are all so supportive of the school. It is wonderful to be in a place where a good, Christian education is valued by everyone.” What other roles does Mrs. Franklin have at St. John’s? "I assist in coaching track & field and set up technology throughout the school--like the new ELMO Boards!" |
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Pamela Sawusch - High School Prep Math Ms. Sawusch began teaching at St. John’s in 2023. She is from the Chicagoland area and has lived in Nebraska, Texas, and Central Illinois. She graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education and Business Administration from Concordia University, Nebraska in 2004 and obtained her Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Concordia University in 2009. Ms. Sawusch has taught on and off for the past 20 years. What does Ms. Sawusch love about St. John’s? "I appreciate the huge amounts of support I have received from coworkers and everyone in the school and church community." What is her favorite Bible verse? “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34 |
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Jeremy Benedict - High School Prep English & Language Arts Mr. Benedict is in his 15th year teaching and this is his 12th year at St. John’s. Mr. Benedict graduated from Concordia University Wisconsin. In addition to his own teaching, his wife works as an Administrative Assistant at Lincoln Middle School in Schiller Park. His children, Gabriella (5th) and Kade (2nd) can often be seen with him before and after school. He currently teaches 6th-8th grade ELA and Physical Education. What are Mr. Benedict’s favorite Bible verses? “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 “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 Why does Mr. Benedict love St. John’s? “I love teaching at St. John’s because of the family environment. This environment spans not only the student and teacher relationships, but also the relationships I have with my teaching peers, the parents, and the church congregation members. It is the welcoming aspect that makes my family excited to be here.” What other roles does Mr. Benedict have at St. John’s? “I serve as the Athletic Director and I coach 7th & 8th grade boys’ basketball.” Mr. Benedict - 8th Grade Homeroom Teacher
[email protected] |
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Katrina Jurica - Music (Preschool-8) Katrina Jurica lives in Chicago with her husband, John Michael, and has served as a Music Teacher in many Lutheran schools over the past 9 years. This will be her 8th year at St. John’s Lutheran School, where she teaches general music, serves as the chapel coordinator, directs ACTS (the chapel drama group), organizes the Christmas programs, directs the musicals, directs handbells and the student choir, and works to offer many other opportunities for students to showcase their musical and dramatic talents. Mrs. Jurica graduated from Concordia University Chicago with a Bachelor’s in Music Education. She has since gone on to become a certified Orff-Schulwerk teacher through Vandercook College of Music’s Orff Levels Program and is a certified First Steps in Music teacher and Conversational Solfege teacher. She is a certified Level 1 and Level 2 Google Educator. She is currently working on her Masters in Church Music from Concordia University Chicago. What is Mrs. Jurica's favorite bible verse? "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us." Hebrews 12:1 Why does Mrs Jurica love St John’s? "I love that I get to be in a school where I get to sing about the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus every day! I have the joy of hearing my students confess their faith in the Lord Jesus in our time in chapel as well as in our discussions of the hymns that we learn to sing. I also love that I get to teach every single student in the school and have the opportunity to learn about them." What other roles does Mrs. Jurica have at St. John’s? "I also offer private piano, guitar, ukulele, and voice lessons to students at St. John’s and to children in the community. These lessons are conducted during and after school." |
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Andria Green - Art (Grades 1-5) The 2023/24 school year marks Mrs. Green's fourth year as the art teacher at St. John's! Prior to joining the St. John's staff, Mrs. Green was an art teacher at a fine arts organization in Maywood for about three years. What is Mrs. Green's favorite Bible verse? "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8: 38-29 What does Mrs. Green love about teaching at St. John's? "I love seeing each of my students let out their creativity, and become more proud and confident in their work throughout the year. Art can be a little intimidating sometimes, since there is no right or wrong answer, but seeing the kids express themselves through the art they create is so rewarding. And I know they have a great time doing it!" |
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George Bryant - Spanish (Grades 1-5) Mr. Bryant entered the teaching profession in June 1971. He received his bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Belize Teachers' College. Upon completion, Mr. Bryant received an endorsement certificate in Elementary Education from the Joint Board of Teachers Education at the University of the West Indies in Jamaica. Mr. Bryant has worked in various capacities in education and has taught both at the elementary and secondary levels. He has served as both a teacher and a principal. What is a favorite Bible verse of Mr. Bryant's? "For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth. Upon you, I have learned from my mother's womb. My praise is continually of you." Psalm 71: 5-6 Why does Mr. Bryant love St. John's? "Our dynamic principal, remarkable faculty and staff, and great students and parents make St. John's "numero uno". What a privilege it is to be a part of St. John's Lutheran School. I give God the glory for ushering my footsteps to this community of believers." Mr. Bryant - Spanish [email protected]
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Anne Mette - PreK-4 Teacher Aide
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Andrea Olivares - PreS-3 Teacher Aide
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Kit Sartin - PreK-4 Teacher's Aide
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Trisha Leith - Kindergarten Teacher's Aide
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St. John's Lutheran School Admin
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Michelle Runge - St. John's Lutheran School Principal Mrs. Runge has been serving at St. John’s Lutheran School since 2004. She spent the first 19 years of her time at St. John’s as the 8th Grade Homeroom Teacher and High School Prep Math Teacher. In the summer of 2023, Mrs. Runge began her 20th year at St. John’s as Principal. She graduated from Concordia University in River Forest, Illinois with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education. Her area of concentration was Psychology. She has her Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Concordia University, River Forest. Mrs. Runge also received her Principal 360 certificate from the Chicagoland Lutheran Educational Foundation, after completing their leadership training program. Mrs. Runge is married to Jake, her husband of 8 years and they have 2 sons that attend St. John's. Mrs. Runge is passionate about her service at St. John’s. She loves that she gets the opportunity to share the love of Christ with her students, staff and school families daily. Her desire is to equip students with a solid, Christian foundation and excellent educational program. Mrs. Runge’s favorite verse is, “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 She is excited and expectant for what is to come this school year and knows that God has great plans for St. John’s! Michelle Runge - Principal
[email protected] |
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Pastor Jacob Ehrhard - St. John's Lutheran Church Pastor Pastor Ehrhard began serving St. John’s as senior pastor in January of 2019 after serving parishes in Dwight, IL and New Haven, MO. He is a 2003 graduate of Concordia University, River Forest and a 2007 graduate of Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN. He is currently pursuing a PhD at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis. Pastor Ehrhard has served the Lutheran youth organization Higher Things as a retreat and conference speaker and as chaplain and liturgist. In 2017 he was part of a choir representing graduates of the two seminaries of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod that toured Germany in recognition of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. He also serves as an adjunct professor at Concordia University Chicago. Pastor Jacob Ehrhard
[email protected] |
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ls Jenna Scifo - Instructional Coach and Admissions & Marketing Coordinator Jenna Scifo has worked in Christian Education since 2002. She's had many roles including classroom teacher, school director, resource director, and currently serves as our CLEF Instructional Coach and Admissions & Marketing Coordinator. Mrs. Scifo graduated from Trinity International University with her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education in 2002 and received her Master's Degree in Teaching & Learning from Liberty University in 2014. She also has her Learning Behavior Specialist Endorsement (LBS1). Her husband, Dr. Scifo, is also in education and they have been married for over 21 years. They have 3 daughters, 2 of them have already graduated from St. John's and one is currently in 3rd grade at St. John's. Her personal mission while serving in Christian Education has always been and continues to be, reaching students and their families with the Gospel message of Jesus Christ while focusing on best practices in education and academic excellence. |
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Candy Lawler - Extended Care Program Director Mrs. Lawler - Extended Care Director
[email protected] |
