Education:

• University of Minnesota (BA in Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences and Spanish studies)
• University of Northern Iowa (MA in Speech-Language Pathology)

DMPS Experience:

• This is my sixth year at DMPS working with students and families on the southside of Des Moines.  Prior to working at DMPS, I provided speech therapy for children at an outpatient clinic.

Family/Hobbies:

• My husband and I have one daughter and three German Shepherd dogs!  We enjoy exploring new places and being outside on trails and parks.  When I’m not running around with my family, I love drinking coffee with a good book whenever I get a chance!

My name is Tammy Bortscheller (Ms. B) and I have been teaching Special Education since 2004. I hold two degrees from Iowa State University: a B.S. in Child Services and a B.S. in Early Childhood Special Education. I also have a K-6 Instructional Strategist I endorsement from Grandview University. For me, one of the greatest rewards of being a teacher is knowing that I am making a difference in the lives of my students, no matter how big or small. I have lived in the Des Moines area all my life. I have a daughter, Olivia, and a son, Elliot. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, reading, working out, and eating good food. My favorite place to visit is Disney World and I’m pretty sure I would live right there in the castle if they would let me!

Hello, my name is Miranda Bunkers and I have been teaching special education at Howe since 2019. I have my bachelor’s in early childhood education with endorsements in reading and special education. I have enjoyed being at Howe and I can’t wait for another year with our Howe Hawks. When I am not at school I enjoy spending time with my friends and family. I also enjoy being outside, shopping, reading, diamond art, and listening to podcasts and music. I look forward to another year of learning and fun at Howe 🙂

Education:

• BA in Psychology from the University of Kansas with a minor in Applied Behavioral Sciences
• MS/EdS in School Psychology from Fort Hays University

DMPS Experience:

• I completed my practicum and internship with DMPS and am going onto my 4^th official year as a school psychologist with the district.

Family/Hobbies:

• I love spending time with my husband and two dachshunds, baking, cheering on the Jayhawks and Chiefs, reading books, and trying new restaurants.

Hello there, my name is Haley and I am thrilled to start my work as an instructional strategist here at Howe. I grew up in the Des Moines area and attended DMPS schools, beginning in pre-K and continuing through my graduation from East High. Since then, I have lived in Missouri, Colorado, and North Carolina, working in schools, libraries, and a combination of both! I recently completed my Masters in Teaching Special Education at North Carolina State University – Go Wolfpack! I am excited to transition out of the library and into the classroom, but when I’m not at school you might find me reading picture books at the Franklin Avenue library with my cheerful 2-year-old daughter. I also enjoy coffee, flowers, trying to beat my spouse in Jeopardy, and my two chihuahuas, Fran and Jerry. I am looking forward to a wonderful year filled with lots of learning and laughter!

My name is Mary Love. I am the special education consultant for Howe. I graduated from the University of NE at Omaha with my bachelor’s degree in education. I am certified to teach English/Language Arts and Special Education. I graduated from Concordia University with my master’s degree in educational administration. I taught for nine years in Omaha, NE for Omaha Public Schools. The other 16 years of my educational career have been with Des Moines Public Schools. Some of the positions I have had throughout my career are special education teacher, team leader, mentor, instructional strategist coach, and special education consultant.

I have been an adjunct professor with Upper Iowa University for the last eight years and will continue this year. I am married and have three children. When I am not working, I enjoy reading, listening to music, and spending time with my family. I am excited to be at Howe this year!

Education:

• I attended University of Northern Iowa where I graduated with a BA in special education, as well as earning my Masters Degree in Differentiated Instruction through Graceland University.

DMPS Experience:

• I have worked in special education at Merrill Middle School and McKinley Elementary.

Family/Hobbies:

• I have 3 children, all of whom have recently graduated from Urbandale Schools. My parent and siblings all live within 10-30 minutes from me.
• Hobbies: Reading, shopping, watching movies, traveling