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!

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 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.

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.

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’m Phil, 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.

I'm Nurse John. I love caring for kids and helping them feel their best so they can learn and have fun. At school, I handle daily bumps, manage chronic conditions, and respond to emergencies—all while creating a safe, welcoming space for every student.

The GOAT of grammar (self-proclaimed, but still). I serve the occasional ace on the pickleball court, cheer loudly for the Pack and the Twinkies, and golf like a pro—well, let’s not talk about that part. When I’m not correcting their/they’re/there in my head.

Hello! My name is Emma Benzkofer, and I teach 21st Century Technology and Careers. In my class, I enjoy learning about students' career interests and seeing what they are able to create using their technology skills.

I am a school counselor with 27 years of experience—4 at Cochrane-Fountain City and 22 at Rushford-Peterson. I’ve also coached volleyball and track at various levels and advised a student ambassador program. Jenny

I grew up in Red Wing and followed my grandad into art education. Now in my third year, I love helping 7th & 8th graders explore creativity through drawing, digital art, photography, painting, and ceramics. Kyle

Proud Rochester native and Franklin, Willow & Mayo alum. Mom of four and former childcare provider turned special ed teacher. I love what I do—each day is new, and my students’ energy and growth inspire me to keep learning and growing with them. Roni

Ms. Osorio, originally from Peru, teaches Newcomer Multilingual students at Willow Creek. She holds degrees in Systems Engineering and Special Education and enjoys inspiring learners, staying active, and spending time with her husband, son, and dog in Rochester.

I was born and raised in South Korea, where I grew up playing on my school girls soccer team and learning piano and clarinet. I enjoy reading and music. At 19, I moved to the United States and recently began working in the school system, which has been very rewarding.

Nieves Petrusek, from Argentina, has over 10 years of teaching experience across multiple states. Now in Rochester, MN, she teaches in the Spanish Immersion Program, fostering student growth in a positive, structured environment while pursuing her Master’s in Education.

Jacob Vetter is a teacher with 15 years’ experience (8 at RPS). He holds a B.S. from Winona State and an M.Ed. from Augustana University (SD). He’s an assistant boys’ basketball coach at Mayo HS and enjoys the outdoors.”

Ms. Meyer grew up in Montessori classrooms through 8th grade before attending public high school. She studied Education and Spanish at Saint Mary’s University of MN and is passionate about sparking curiosity and a lifelong love of learning in her students.”

Hi I am (Ms. Brown) and I teach 6th grade ELA! I graduated from Winona State University and a former RPS Student, so I am happy to be in Rochester. I’m excited to help students enjoy reading and writing and WC! I also love to bake, watch movies and travel.

Hello! I’m Ms. Amelia Boerger, and I’m excited to teach Orchestra and Spanish Intervention at Willow Creek! I love music and languages and look forward to helping students build confidence, learn new skills, and enjoy learning this year.