We are incredibly fortunate to have two exceptional social workers who go above and beyond in supporting our students and community. Their dedication and passion make a profound impact every day. Thank you Ms. Dow and Ms. Joner.

Meet Jake, our Special Education Emotional and Behavioral Specialist (EBD). He plays a vital role in supporting middle school students facing emotional and behavioral challenges. He goes above and beyond and shows genuine commitment to their success. Thanks Jake.

A librarian paraprofessional in middle school plays a key role in supporting the librarian and enhancing the library's functionality by providing one-on-one assistance to students and helping them find resources that match their interests and needs. Thank you Michelle

Kevin is our mental health practitioner, who provides support, assessment and treatment for individuals experiencing mental health issues. This is his second year in the district. He enjoys music, sports and spending time with his family.

Sandy is our Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) teacher. She works across classrooms to create an inclusive environment for students with hearing loss, fostering community among DHH students and advocating for accessibility.

Ms. Scheevel is our new school psychologist at Willow Creek. She helps identify how students learn best and what support they need to succeed. Her favorite part of the job is working with students, parents, teachers, and staff.

Dr. Theiler, originally from New England, teaches 8th grade Physical Chemistry. She holds a doctorate in Medical Science from the University of Texas Medical Branch and a Master's in Chemistry. She is passionate about helping students flourish academically and personally.

Howdy! I'm Jacob Walkky, and I teach Energy and Environment at Willow Creek Middle School. My class is project-based, where students design fun, creative solutions like ice-protecting igloos or foil boats, embracing their inner junior engineers!

I joined Willow Creek after being impressed by the school during a PD session in Rochester. With previous experience as an EBD teacher at an elementary school, I applied and transitioned into my current role as an LD teacher. This is my fourth year at Willow. Mr. Banuvong.

My name is Sean LaPlante, and I teach Adapted Physical Education (Special Education) at Willow Creek, as well as DAPE at Phoenix Academy and Harriet Bishop Elementary. I appreciate the amazing students and the great colleagues I work with.

My name is Jay Schultz, and I’m an EBD resource teacher at WC. I began working here right after graduating college in 2021. As an EBD teacher, I support students in regulating their emotions and behaviors so they can succeed throughout the school day.

I’m your friendly neighborhood Speech-Language Pathologist and a proud Wildcat since 2019. I strive to make communication—a fundamental human right—accessible for all my students. Serving Willow Creek is an honor, thanks to the incredible staff and administration.

Mr. Ellefson began his teaching career in Proctor, MN, before transitioning to Willow Creek in 1997. After gaining experience teaching in Colorado and Goodhue, MN, he returned to Rochester in 2007, where he has continued to teach ever since.

I’m Dana, the Special Education Instructional Coach. This is my 8th year at Willow and my 20th with RPS. I’m excited to be back at WC, working alongside our amazing staff and students. I’m passionate about education and love the opportunity to work with students every day.

With 35 years of teaching experience, I’ve had the privilege of spending my entire career at Willow Creek, where I’m constantly inspired by the amazing staff and students. Their dedication makes this place feel like home.

I’m Randolf Nkwelle Mesumbe from Cameroon. I teach multilingual learners at Willow Creek Middle, with experience in Maryland and Cameroon. I hold degrees in ESL, Health Admin, and a PhD in Comparative Literature. I am also pursuing a master’s in Social Work.

Mrs. Jones is the choir teacher at Willow Creek, where she brings a love for music and teaching to every lesson. Originally from Pennsylvania, she has also lived in California and Iowa. Outside of school, she enjoys reading , spending quality time with her husband and cats.

Hi! I’m Simon Warmkagathje (Mr. Dubs), a 7th-grade Life Science teacher at Willow Creek. I graduated from Saint Mary’s University in 2023 and grew up on a dairy farm in St. Charles with seven younger siblings. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy hiking, fishing, sports.

I am Mr. Lake, an 8th grade Social Studies teacher at Willow Creek since 1991, who inspires students with his passion for history and global perspective, using innovative methods like juggling and drawing from his experience teaching in Indonesia and the Philippines.

I am Sandra, the Equity Specialist here at Willow. I ensure all students have equal access to resources and support. I collaborate with families to connect them with school and community resources and lead student groups that foster academic success and positive behavior.

I’m Phill, Special Ed. Case Facilitator & Community Ed. Site Director at Willow Creek since 2012. I evaluate students, collaborate with staff and families, manage paperwork, and run afterschool programs, all while empowering students’ academic growth.

I am Mr. Olson. A dedicated educator focused on student success. Started at Willow Creek in 2015 as an ESP, began teaching in 2022. Coaching track at Mayo since 2016. I hold a bachelor's degree and completed a rigorous teacher prep program to inspire and guide learners.

Mrs. Nap is a passionate Earth Science teacher at Willow Creek who’s spent the last four years inspiring students. She brings science to life with hands-on activities that spark curiosity. Outside class, she loves to cook and explore new places through travel.