Ever wonder what inspires someone to dedicate their life to education? Independence Schools are buzzing with new faces this year, each bringing unique passion and incredible stories to our classrooms. From fostering critical thinking to creating safe spaces, our new teachers are ready to make a huge impact. What do you think makes a truly unforgettable teacher?
The Independence Community School District (ICSD) has enthusiastically welcomed a cohort of dedicated new educators, marking an invigorating start to the academic year. These passionate professionals bring a wealth of experience, fresh perspectives, and an unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive and stimulating learning environment for every student, reinforcing the district’s dedication to educational excellence and student success.
Among the inspiring new faculty is Ms. Rieken, who eloquently articulates her motivation: “Every student deserves to feel valued, loved, and safe while at school.” With previous experience teaching middle school science and social studies, she is particularly drawn to supporting students through the pivotal middle school years, helping them navigate social situations to thrive academically. Her approach emphasizes creating a space where students can confidently explore their identities and embrace their learning journey.
Independence native Ms. Eckles joins the Fifth Grade team, bringing a vibrant energy and a deep appreciation for public education. A University of Iowa alumna, she previously taught 6th Grade Science at Benton Community. Ms. Eckles expresses immense joy in witnessing students develop critical thinking skills and forming their own values, aspiring to ignite a passion for learning through new experiences and real-world connections, all within a secure classroom setting.
The district also proudly introduces a new Special Education Teacher, whose overarching goal is to empower every student to realize their full potential. This educator, who has always envisioned a career in teaching, is committed to providing a safe, engaging, and fun learning environment, ensuring tailored support for students with diverse needs to achieve academic growth.
For 8th Grade Science, Ms. Amundson, originally from Gunder, Iowa, brings her extensive academic background from Simpson College and Morningside University. She shares a holistic teaching philosophy focused on experiencing student growth. Outside the classroom, Ms. Amundson balances her passion for education with hobbies like raising laying hens, photography, hiking, and gardening, enriching her connection to community life.
Further strengthening the academic offerings, Ms. Roe takes on the role of High School Mathematics Teacher, bringing her expertise from Dubuque Hempstead High School. East Elementary gains Ms. Shannon, an Independence native and Reading Interventionist, whose 15 years in education, including roles as a Title 1 Reading Teacher and Instructional Coach, underscore her dedication to foundational literacy. Additionally, Ms. Beyer will coordinate High School Work Experience, drawing on her background as a Middle School Special Education teacher, further enhancing practical student development opportunities.
Ms. Studebaker, a High School Work Experience coordinator, finds joy in contributing to student success and enjoys fishing and shopping for classroom supplies in her spare time. East Elementary’s new School Counselor, Ms. Poots, from Cedar Falls, brings a background in grief counseling and a passion for supporting young minds. Ms. McCusker, a Special Education Teacher at East Elementary, recently graduated from Upper Iowa University and previously subbed for ICSD, bringing fresh energy and a commitment to inclusive education.
Ms. McCusker’s journey into special education was deeply influenced by her desire to support students’ social and emotional learning. Her extensive experience, including a role as an admissions representative at Hawkeye Community College, fuels her passion for high school counseling, focusing on academic, social, and emotional development, alongside crucial college and career planning. She emphasizes preparing students for diverse post-high school pathways, whether workforce entry, apprenticeships, higher education, or military service, ensuring a comprehensive approach to student readiness and future success within the community schools.
