Meet the Faculty

Joy Morgan is Principal of Lakewood High School. This is her first year with the Lakewood City Schools. Previously, she served as assistant principal at Westlake High School and an assistant principal and principal at Brookside High School in Sheffield. She started her career as a history teacher and also briefly worked as a social worker. Ms. Morgan earned her bachelor's in history and integrated social studies from Cleveland State and also earned her master's degree in educational administration from CSU. She holds superintendent licensure as well.

 

Bridgette Firstenberger is the Associate Principal. She holds a BS in Education from Bowling Green State University, graduating cum laude, and a Master's in Education in Education Administration from Ashland University. Before joining Lakewood High in 2015, she was an assistant high school principal in Big Walnut Local Schools in Sunbury, Ohio. Mrs. Firstenberger also was a special education teacher in the Urbana and Delaware school districts.

 

Tony Chiaravalle is the House 1 Principal. Chiaravalle started his educational career as a special education teacher with Westlake City Schools, where he taught for six years. He then moved on to become Assistant Principal at Sheffield Middle School in the Sheffield-Sheffield Lake School District.  In 2011, he joined the District as Garfield’s Assistant Principal. Chiaravalle has also led the District’s summer school program. Chiaravalle earned his Bachelor of Science in Education from Bowling Green State University and a Master’s in Educational Administration from Ashland University.

 

Meredith Wojtkun is the House 2 Principal. Mrs. Wojtkun earned a BA from WIttenburg University and an ME in Educational Administration from Keene University in New Hampshire. She joined the District in 1992. She has served many roles for the District including intervention specialist, middle school language arts teacher, PBIS coordinator and assistant principal and principal of Harding Middle School.

 

 

Yakoob Badat is the House 3 Principal. He holds a BA from John Carroll University, and an M.Ed, Teaching and Administrative License and Education Specialist designation from Cleveland State University. Before joining LHS in 2010, he was the assistant principal at John Marshall High School in Cleveland and had also served as an Intervention Specialist there. Mr. Badat was a graduate assistant at Cleveland State and a Peace Corps volunteer. 

 

Bill DiMascio is the Coordinator of Career-Technical Education for the West Shore Career-Technical District housed at LHS. He holds a BA in Geography and a MS in Education focusing on Secondary Education from the University of Akron. He is also certified in cartography. Before joining the Lakewood Schools as Lakewood High's House 1 Principal in 2012, he was Program/Manager of the Akron Alternative Academy. Prior to that he was a social studies teacher and Career Based Intervention instructor for the Akron City Schools. Before going into teaching, Mr. DiMascio was a cartographer for the U.S. Government. 

 

Kate Brady teaches and Advanced English 2, English and Humanities. She is a graduate of Lakewood High and holds a BA in English Literature from John Carroll University. Ms. Brady earned her Bachelor's degree in English Literature at John Carroll University and was awarded the Francis T. Huck Award for Excellence in student teaching. She has since completed a TESOL program through the University of Akron and earned a Master of Arts in English Literature from John Carroll University. Prior to joining the district full time in 2012, Ms. Brady worked at LHS as a tutor for English Learners, taught English at Buckeye High School and coached the LHS gymnastics team. She is a proud graduate of LHS. 

 

Christopher Brookholt teaches English 1, EL English 2, and Diversity in Literature, a course he developed to promote tolerance and understanding. He has a BA in English and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) from Cleveland State University. Mr. Brookholt won the Secondary Education Award while attending CSU. Before entering teaching, he was in corporate management for 13 years and also was an improv comedy performer and theater actor for more than a decade. He is the current adviser to Club Identity and has previously advised the Poetry Slam Club and The Dead Tree Society Book Club. His special interests include minority studies and social justice issues. Brookholt, who joined Lakewood Schools in 2008, loves LHS for its “positive environment and diversity.” 
 

Susan Cesa teaches Creative Writing 1, English 2 and Intro to Journalism. She earned a BS in Secondary Education (English/Journalism) from University of Dayton, an MS in Education in Reading, Writing and Literacy from University of Pennsylvania and an Education Specialist degree from Cleveland State. She also has her Administrative license. She joined Lakewood City Schools in 2005, at Lakewood City Academy. She has taught in the Chicago Public Schools and did a graduate projects with the Philadelphia Public School System. Ms. Cesa won a Secondary Teacher Award at the University of Dayton in 2001 and is currently pursuing her Administrative license and Education Specialist degree at Cleveland State. She enjoys the diversity and talent that exist within the Lakewood community. 

 

Gray Cooper teaches Advanced English I, English II, and Practical Communications. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Integrated Language Arts Education from Ohio University. After previously teaching in Cape Coast, Ghana; Columbus, Ohio; Willoughby Eastlake, Ohio; and Breakthrough Charter Schools in Cleveland, Mr. Cooper joined Lakewood High in 2013. 

 

 

Domenic Farinelli teaches Fantasy/Science Fiction, Drama and Theater Arts for West Shore Career-Tech. He holds a BA  in English from Baldwin-Wallace College, where he also minored in Theater and Education. After previously teaching at Padua Franciscan and Magnificat high schools, he joined Lakewood High in 2013.  Mr Farinelli loves the diversity of Lakewood as well as the District's commitment to the arts. 

 

 

Lauren Kindstrand teaches English 2 and English 3. She earned a  bachelor’s degree in English Education from Miami University, graduating Magna Cum Laude. Before teaching at the high school, she was a long-term sub at Garfield Middle School, teaching 8^th grade English. She joined the District in 2016.

 

 

 

Christopher Lamphear teaches AP Literature and Composition, English III and Speech. He holds a BS in Communications from Ohio University, a MA in Education from Ursuline College and a MA in English from Cleveland State University. He worked for Fox News in Cleveland from 2003-2004 before pursuing his teaching degree. He began teaching at LHS in 2005. He was the recipient of the 2016-2017 PTA Outstanding Educator Award for Lakewood High School. He also serves as Commencement speaker adviser. 

Jennifer Lewis is department facilitator. She teaches English 1 and Advanced English 2. She holds a BS in Education from Ohio University and a ME from Tennessee State University. Ms. Lewis joined LHS in 2001 and calls the students “the best young people I know.” Before coming to Lakewood, she spent seven years teaching in Tennessee.
 

 

Teresa Roope teaches English 3. She holds a BS in Secondary English Education from Kent State. Mrs. Roope joined LHS in 2008 and says "I feel blessed to work with an incredible student body and talented group of teaching professionals who embrace creativity and innovation." Mrs. Roope is currently pursuing a Master's degree in English. 

 

 

Lisa Shaffer-Gill teaches English Language Learners. She holds a BA in Secondary Education and French from Adrian College in Michigan and a ME in Curriculum and Instruction from Cleveland State. She holds endorsements for TESOL and reading. Ms. Shaffer-Gill has been awarded both the Margaret Warner Teaching Grant and the Meinke Creative Teaching Grant. She joined LHS in 2000. Prior to that she taught at Oberlin High School.
 

 

 

Pamela Sheils teaches Advanced English 1 and English 1. She holds a BA in English and an MA in Curriculum both from Cleveland State. She also has an Endorsement in Gifted and Talented Learners. Before joining LHS in 2015, Mrs. Sheils taught 6th-8th grade gifted and talented language arts and social studies at Harding Middle School for five years. Prior to that, she taught 7th and 8th grade at Emerson Middle School and Harding for three years. She served as a Drama Club, Power of the Pen and Mock Trial adviser during her time at Harding and Emerson. Prior to coming to Lakewood, Mrs. Sheils taught at Holy Name High School where she taught English, creative writing and drama. She also served as adviser for Holy Name's drama, literary magazine and music ministries groups. 

 

Katherine Spies teaches English 3 and EL English 1. She holds a BA in English from The Ohio State University, where she minored in Disability Studies, and an M.Ed from Baldwin Wallace University. Ms. Spies joined the District in 2015 as a teacher at Lakewood City Academy (now Franklin School of Opportunity). Prior to that, she was a reading specialist at Bay Middle School. 

 

 

Debbie Udovic teaches English Language Learners. She holds a BS in Education in Special Education K-12, and Elementary Education K-8. She has taught in the Lakewood Schools 43 years, teaching Special Ed at Lakewood High, Harding, and Madison Elementary. She was a longtime elementary teacher at Lincoln. She is director for Muskingum University’s TESOL Summer Camp, and an ELS tutor at Emerson After School ASIA tutoring program and summer camp. Past accomplishments include: Lakewood City Schools Elementary Teacher of the Year, Martha Holden Jennings Scholar, OTES  evaluator and obtaining Ohio National Board Certification. 

Kaitlyn Ackerman teaches Adv. Algebra 2, Algebra and Math Lab. She holds a BSEd in Integrated Mathematics from Bowling Green State University. She joined the District for the 2013-14 school year.

 

Cassandra Alanen is the department facilitator. She teaches Advanced Pre-Calculus and Geometry. She holds a BA from Kent State University and an MA in Mathematics from Cleveland State. Before joining LHS in 2000, she was a teacher at Lake Catholic High School. She is a former cheerleading and gymnastics coach. 

 

John Burgess teaches Algebra 1 and Survey of Algebra.  He earned his teaching licensure and MA in Education Administration from Ashland University.  In addition, he holds a BA in Business from Grove City College and an MBA from West Virginia University.  Before entering the teaching profession, Mr. Burgess spent 10 years in sales/management positions.  Mr. Burgess joined Lakewood City Schools in 2006 at Lakewood City Academy.  Before that, he spent two years teaching middle school math in Cleveland.  He is proud to tell others he works for Lakewood.

Kirk Culler teaches Geometry, Advanced Geometry and Math Lab. He holds a BA from Malone University and an MA from Kent State University. He is a member of the LHS 2.0 Geometry team. Mr. Culler joined Lakewood in 2004. Before joining LHS, he taught Math at Stow High School and served as the JV basketball coach. Mr. Culler also taught at Eastlake North High School where he was the varsity basketball coach. 

Anthony Doran teaches PreCalculus and Geometry. He holds a BS in Mathematics Education (grades 7-12) from Kent State and an MA in Curriculum and Instruction from Nova Southeastern University. Mr. Doran has been teaching at Lakewood High since 2006. 

 

 

Michelle Klepatzki teaches Algebra 1 and Geometry. She holds a Mathematics Education degree from Case Western Reserve University. She previously taught at Lakewood City Academy for two years before joining LHS in 2015. Ms. Klepatzki was the recipient of Noyce Teacher Fellowship scholarship. In her free time, she likes to run, shop and go to Starbucks. 

 

William Roth teaches Statistics and Algebra 1 & 2. He has a BS in Mathematics from Baldwin Wallace University with minors in Adolescent Young Adult Education (7-12) and Psychology. Mr. Roth is the National Honor Society adviser. Mr. Roth joined Lakewood High in the 2014-2015 school year.

 

 

Corinne Sandor teaches Algebra 1 and Algebra 2. She has a BS in Mathematics from Cleveland State University. She joined the District in the 2016-2017 school year and is a member of the Pi Mu Epsilon Mathematical honor society. 

 

 

Kristen Thompson  teaches Geometry and Calculus AB. She holds a BS in Mathematics from Baldwin-Wallace College and an MA in Teaching Mathematics from Bowling Green State University, where she earned a graduate assistant Excellence in Teaching award. Mrs. Thompson joined Lakewood Schools in 2008 after having been a teaching assistant at BGSU. 

 

 

Robert Sedlak teaches AP Calculus BC, Robotics and Pre-Engineering. He holds a BA from the University of Detroit and a Master’s from Cleveland State. Mr. Sedlak was the House III Teacher of the Year in 2002. He joined Lakewood Schools in 1997. Prior to that he taught Math at Maple Heights High and St. Edward’s. He also spent 19 years as a construction manager. In past years at LHS,  Mr. Sedlak advises the Opera Club and was a past adviser of the Academic Challenge team. He assists with the swim/dive team. He calls teaching at LHS “a treat” and says the student body “is inquisitive, vibrant, funny, talented, diverse, questioning, and often times brilliant.” 



Karen Wheeler teaches Algebra and Statistics. She holds a BA in Education/Math from Kent State University and an MA in Curriculum and Instruction/Educational Technology from Cleveland State University. She joined Lakewood Schools in 1997. Before that, she was a teacher in the Sheffield-Sheffield Lake school system. 

 

 

Karen Alten teaches Advanced Biology and AP Biology. She holds a BS in Biology and a minor in Chemistry and Education from Cleveland State. She also holds an M Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from Ashland University. Mrs. Alten began her career with Lakewood Schools in 1998 teaching 7th & 8th grade science. She was a Margaret Warner grant recipient in 2008.  Mrs. Alten advises the climate change club and co-advises the Academic Challenge team. Of working in Lakewood, Mrs. Alten says, "I am so proud to tell people I work at LHS. There is something here for everyone.

Rita Chahda-Gonzalez teaches Intro to Life Science, Biology and Advanced Biology.  She holds a BS in Clinical Biology, a Masters of Urban Education and a TESOL endorsement from Cleveland State University and a Master's in Biology from Miami University. She joined LHS staff in 2006. Before becoming a teacher, she was a medical technologist in Chemistry & Hematology at the Cleveland Clinic and a Cancer Center Lab Manager and stem cell research technologist at Case Western Reserve University. Says Chahda-Gonzalez about teaching: "I love my students and enjoy every minute I spend teaching them science and making connections with everyday life."
 

Jennifer Frend teaches Physics and AP Physics. She holds a BA in Chemistry from Malone College and a ME in Organizational Leadership from Cleveland State. She joined Lakewood Schools in 2005. Before coming to Lakewood Ms. Frend taught science in the Parma school district. 

 

Kathy Gabriel teaches Chemistry and AP Chemistry. She holds a BS in Chemistry from Clarkson University in New York and an MS in Education from Walden University. Ms. Gabriel joined LHS in 2006 after having taught Chemistry at Avon Lake High School. She also spent a year living abroad in Egypt. 

 

Dave Hille teaches Physics and Fundamental Physics. He holds a BS in Education from Miami University and an MA in Administration from Baldwin-Wallace College. He has been with the Lakewood Schools his entire career beginning in 1999 and organizes the annual Cardboard Boat Regatta, which aptly reflects his philosophy that “Physics is fun!” Mr. Hille was named the Lakewood Council of PTAs' Educator of the Year for 2014-2015. He is also adviser to the Ski Club and Physics Club.  

 

 

Alice M. Hubbard teaches Advanced Physical Science and is the Department facilitator. She holds a BS from University of Notre Dame and an ME from Cleveland State. She advises the Watters Science Seminar. Ms. Hubbard said she teaches because she "has a passion for the subject and compassion for the students." 

 

 

 

 Ken Kozar teaches Physical Science. A 1986 graduate of Lakewood High School, he holds a BS in Biology and a M.Ed in Educational Technology from Cleveland State University. He joined Lakewood City Schools in 1998. Prior to joining Lakewood Mr. Kozar taught in the Brunswick school district.

 

 

Lisa Krumroy teaches Biology and CCP Anatomy & Physiology. She holds a Bachelor's degree from Cleveland State University and a Master's degree in Biology from Miami University.  She joined the LHS staff in 2010. Before becoming a teacher, Mrs. Krumroy was a senior research technologist in cancer genetics for the Cleveland Clinic. She has co-authored 12 peer-reviewed journal articles through her work at the Clinic. Mrs. Krumroy says she “loves teaching in Lakewood and especially enjoys the diversity and creativity of the students.” 
 

 

Ann Pesta  teaches Biology and Intro to Life Science. She holds a BS in Zoology and Pre-Medicine from Kent State University and an MEd in Technology from Baldwin Wallace University. She earned her teaching certificate and Gifted Endorsement from Cleveland State. Mrs. Pesta joined the District in 1995, teaching 7th & 8th grade science at Emerson Middle School. She moved to Harding in 2007 when Emerson transitioned to an elementary school.She won PTA Educator of the year for the middle schools in 1997, Wow! Science Award from the Great Lakes Science Center in 2003. She also won a grant to do a year sabbatical at NASA with a contractor called The National Institute for Microgravity Research. She was born and raised in Lakewood and graduated from LHS.

Chris Phillips teaches Physical Science. He has a BS in Education from Bowling Green State University and a ME in School Counseling from Westminster College. Mr. Phillips won the Ohio Academy of Science’s Governor’s Award for Excellence in Youth Science Opportunities for the 1995-1996 school year. Before coming to Lakewood in 2006 he taught middle school and high school science in Brookfield, Ohio, schools. 

Sydney E. Peterson teaches Advanced Chemistry. She has a BS in Chemistry from Georgetown University and a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from Northwestern University. Dr. Peterson is a member of the American Chemical Society, the National Science Teachers Association, Phi Lambda Upsilon Chemistry Honors Society. Before joining LHS in 2002, Dr. Peterson was a pharmaceutical consultant, and a director of Research & Development for Pharmacia Corp. and The Upjohn Corp. She also was an assistant professor at Whitworth College in Washington. She left the corporate world because “I love chemistry and I love teaching.” She said she enjoys working at LHS because “of the very supportive community, parents and PTA, and the intelligent, hard-working and professional colleagues, staff and administration." 
 

Marian Sarnowski teaches Biology and Intro to Life Science. She holds a BS in Biology from the University of Scranton in Scranton, PA and earned a teaching license through Ashland University. She joined Lakewood Schools in 2014. She served as a long-term sub at LHS in 2013-14. Prior to going into education, she was in medical sales.

 

Shannon Snare teaches Biology and Horticulture. She holds a BS from Youngstown State and a M.Ed from Ursuline College. Before joining Lakewood Schools in 2005, she worked in the health care field as a research lab manager. In 2010 and 2018 , she was named the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s Official of the Year for gymnastics. She was also named Northeast Ohio High School Coaches Association's Service Excellence Award winner for 2018 and is also the Ping Pong Club adviser at LHS.   

 

Nima Zaaeed teaches Chemistry and Materials Science Chemistry. She has a BS in Chemistry from Baldwin-Wallace College and an MEd in Curriculum and Instruction from Cleveland State. Ms. Zaaeed , a LHS grad, joined Lakewood Schools in 2008. Prior to that she taught Physical Science and Chemistry at North Ridgeville High School and Honors Chemistry and Honors Physics in Cleveland. Ms. Zaaeed received the ASM Technical Educator award in 2013 "In recognition of excellence in promoting science and technology to students through leadership in establishing and presenting the first Materials Science to be taught at Lakewood High School." 

 

Jennifer Zaremba teaches Material Science Chemistry and Physics. She holds a BS in Biology from Ohio University. She earned her teaching certificate at Baldwin-Wallace College and an MS in Education from Nova Southeastern University. Ms. Zaremba joined Lakewood Schools in 1999. She calls LHS “a great place to teach, with wonderful students, teachers and resources.” 

 

 

Alex Cammock teaches World and U.S. History. He holds a BA in Education from Ohio University. Before joining LHS this year, he taught social studies at Harding Middle School for seven years. Mr. Cammock, an LHS alum, is a graduate of the First Ring Leadership Academy and an ARRA grant recipient. He is also head coach for the boys' varsity basketball team.

 

 

 

Megan Davis teaches World History and U.S. History. She holds both a bachelor's and master's degree in History from John Carroll University, where she also earned her educational license. She is a member of Facing History and Ourselves and won the Margaret Stern Strom teaching award from the organization in 2010 and a Margaret Stern Strom grant in 2015. She leads the Girls Leadership Group at LHS, for which she received a Lakewood Rangers Education Foundation Margaret Warner grant for 2016-2018. Mrs. Davis began teaching at Lakewood City Academy in 2007 and joined LHS in 2013.

 

Lauren Flynn wrote the curriculum for and teaches American Popular Culture. She is the department facilitator. She holds a BA in Education from Cleveland State, where she earned membership into the Golden Key International Honour Society, and an MA in Education specializing in Technology at Walden University. She was a Teaching American History Grant participant 2004-2006.  She is an LHS grad and began working for Lakewood Schools in 2001. She says "the students and staff make me look forward to coming to work each day." 

Chuck Greanoff teaches College Credit Plus Psychology 1 through the University of Akron and AP U.S. History. A graduate of Lakewood High, he holds a BS in History from Ohio Wesleyan, an MS from the University of Wisconsin - Lacrosse and a PhD in Psychology from Kent State University. He also holds an MS in Education from Ursuline College, where he earned his teaching certificate. Before joining LHS in 2006 he was a practicing psychologist. He is the adviser for the History Club and former longtime adviser of the  Model United Nations Club. He has published a chapter in the book "Why We Teach Now," edited by Sonia Nieto, entitled Teaching in Invisible Space. Dr. G. calls teaching at LHS “a joy and a privilege – we have terrific students and provide an opportunity rich environment.” He says his aim is to help students “look at the world around them use history as a vehicle for cultivating an analytical disposition.” 

Ron Lewis teaches Government and AP Government. He holds a BS in Education from Bowling Green State University and an MA in Educational Administration from Baldwin-Wallace College. Mr. Lewis, who joined Lakewood in 2008 and is an LHS grad.  He was named LHS' Teacher of the Year for the 2013-14 school year. Before joining the district, Mr. Lewis worked in the Strongsville Schools, where he was named Teacher of the Year for the 2001-2002 school year. He also taught in the Rocky River Schools for six years.  

 

Joe Lobozzo teaches AP U.S. History 10 and Human Rights and Conflict. Mr. Lobozzo has a BA from Boston College and an MA in Teaching from Simmons College in Boston. In 2009 he was given the Margot Stern Stromm Teaching Award from the group Facing History & Ourselves. Mr. Lobozzo joined LHS in 2000 after having spent time as a Retreat Coordinator for a private high school in New York and as Activities Coordinator for Challenge Alaska, a program dedicated to the quality of life for people with disabilities and the whole community through adaptive sports, therapeutic recreation, and education. Mr. Lobozzo serves as the adviser to the FilmClub, and Identity Club. RETURN TO TOP

Alisa Nazelli teaches  U.S. History and Current Events. She holds a BS in Education from Bowling Green and an MS in Education from Cleveland State. She was a Teaching American History Grant participant from 2004-2006 and participated in the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation Leadership Program for Teachers from 2004-2006. She currently is an advisor for our Facing History Student Leaders group. Ms. Nazelli joined LHS in 1996 after having taught at Beachwood High School. She says of LHS: "the energized environment makes it an inspiring place to teach and learn because of the students. I am also honored to be part of LHS' dedicated faculty." 



Tim Rinehart teaches AP U.S. History 10 and U.S. History. He holds a BS in Education from Ashland University and a Master’s degree in School Counseling from University of Akron. He joined Lakewood Schools in 2000 after having taught in the Nordonia schools and Akron Springfield Schools, where he was the varsity basketball coach. From 2008-2011, Mr. Rinehart was a participant in the Constructing, Consuming and Conserving America, a Teaching American History Grant. He also recently facilitated Lakewood students' submission of Lakewood sites to Cleveland Historical, a smart phone application. 




Derek A. Smith teaches World History. He has a BS in Education from Ohio State University. He joined Lakewood Schools in 1999 after having taught at Black River High School. He serves as the head coach for the golf team and girls bowling team. 

 

Joe Zombek teaches AP European History, Economic and Sociology. He has taught Government & Politics, Current Events and World History in the past. He holds a BA in Political Science from the College of Wooster and an MS in Education from the University of Scranton. Mr. Zombek joined Lakewood in 2008. 

Elizabeth Hankins is the high school’s Orchestra Director. She conducts the String Orchestra, Camarata, Philharmonia Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, and the Lakewood Project rock orchestra. She has a Bachelor’s in Music Education from Oberlin Conservatory at Oberlin College and a Master’s in Education from Baldwin-Wallace College. In 2017 she earned her PhD from Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Hankins was named  a Grammy Music Educator Award Finalist in 2017.In 2013 and 2015 she was named Yale University's Distinguished Music Educator. In 2013, she was named Oberlin Conservatory's Distinguished Alumni for Music Education. In 2003 she was named the American String Teachers Association Teacher of the Year for the State of Ohio as well as LHS’ Teacher of the Year. She founded the Lakewood Project, considered the world’s first high school rock orchestra. She was Past Regional Chair of the Ohio Music Educators Association and is currently its Orchestra Affairs Chair, Past President of the Ohio String Teachers Association and Past President of the Ohio School Orchestras Association. Dr. Hankins also guest conducts and gives clinics throughout the country.

Dayna Hansen teaches Art 1 and Photography. She holds a BA in Art Education from Kent State University. A Mentor native, Mrs. Hansen taught in Charleston, S.C., before returning home to the Cleveland area to join our District in 2015. She is the LHS Art Club adviser. She looks forward to working with Lakewood students, parents and the community. 

 

 

Anne McQuay teaches Media Art & Design 1 & 2. She is certified to teach Art and Career & Technical Education. She holds a BS in art education from Miami University. She joined Lakewood in 2005. Before coming to LHS she taught middle school art in Las Vegas for a year and taught two years at Holy Family in Parma. 

 

Arline Olear teaches Art 2 and Art 3. She holds a BFA from the Cleveland Institute of Art and a ME from Case Western Reserve University. Before joining Lakewood Schools in 2006, she taught art in the Rocky River schools and also worked as a professional corporate photographer. Of teaching students art she says: “I believe students find satisfaction in accomplishing something creative after days or weeks of hard work. They keep me excited about the subject and I hope to do the same for them.” 

 

 

Autumn Sabin teaches Art 1, FIber Arts 1 and AP Art History. She holds a BA in Art Education from Cleveland State University and a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction with License in Gifted & Talented Education from Cleveland State. She has completed Principal and Administration credentials at the University of Akron. Ms. Sabin has taught art since 2006, teaching at all the District schools except Roosevelt and Garfield. She also teaches an Arts Method course at Cleveland State. Ms Sabin co-advises the Academic Challenge team.

 

 

Kari Sanford teaches both Art 1 and Art in Focus. She holds a bachelor's degree in Art Education from Baldwin Wallace University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Prior to joining LHS in 2015, Mrs. Sanford was an art gallery owner and also taught art classes. In addition to teaching at the high school, Mrs. Sanford is a working artist in both collage and metalsmithing. She has participated in several group shows in the area and has won several awards in both painting, collage, and metals. She enjoys camping and travelling with her family.

 

 

Amy Sedlak is department facilitator for the Art Department. She teaches  Art 4 and Ceramics 1 & 2. Mrs. Sedlak has a BA from Cleveland State and was awarded the Certificate of Excellence by the College of Education at Cleveland State for outstanding performance in student teaching. In 2006-2007, She was awarded the LHS Teacher of the Year Award. Mrs. Sedlak believes strongly in blending art into the community. "Community involvement is a lifelong learning experience, and in art, I strive for my students to become involved and connected to the Ctiy of Lakewood." Her students have contributed to beautifying Lakewood, from the mural at Beck Pool at Madison Park to the rain barrels at the community garden in Madison Park, the ceramic bench at LHS and the 9-11 Fallen Firefighters Memorial. 

 

Clinton Steinbrunner is the LHS Band Director and conducts and teaches Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble,  AP Music Theory, Class Piano and the extracurricular Marching Band, Pep Band, Jazz Band and Jazz Workshop. He holds a BA in Music Education from The College of Wooster and an MA in Music Education from Case Western Reserve University. Mr. Steinbrunner is currently working on a master's degree at Case Western Reserve University. He began his professional career teaching English in Germany and then moved on to teach at a secondary school in Dublin, Ireland. He also has served a substitute music teacher for the Mercer County Educationals Services organization.  He joined Lakewood Schools in 2014 after having served as middle school band director and high school assistant director for Benjamin Logan Local Schools. 

Katherine M. Bracquet teaches French 2-4 and AP French. She has a BA and an MA from Baldwin-Wallace College. She joined Lakewood Schools in 2003. Before joining LHS, she had taught in Maple Heights and served as a translator. She has assisted study abroad programs in various places in Europe and the Middle East. Ms. Braquet is the adviser to Le Cercle Francais (French Club).

 

 

Matt Heslep teaches Spanish 1 & 3. He holds a BA in International Relations and an MA in Spanish Literature and Linguistics from Miami University. He earned his licensure in Education from the University of Dayton. Before coming to Lakewood in 2004, he taught in the Springfield, Ohio, school district. He is the adviser for Travel Club and has taken the students to Portugal, Spain, the Dominican Republic, Peru, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.  

 

 

Gregory E. Sent teaches German 1-4. He earned a BS in Education from Miami University and a Master’s from Cleveland State in TESOL. He has studied in Heidelberg and Berlin, Germany, and did his student teaching at an American Army base in Germany. He joined Lakewood High in 1999 after teaching a year at Elyria High School. Mr. Sent is the German Club adviser and said he “enjoys bringing German culture and language to life in the classroom.”  

 

 

 

Meghan Singleton teaches French. She holds a BA in Secondary Education, English and French from Marquette University.

 

 

 

 

Joshua Dolnosich teaches Physical Education and Health. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Baldwin Wallace University, where he held numerous leadership positions and earned a several awards. Some of these include being part of the Kappa Delta Pi and Gamma Sigma Alpha Honor Societies and holding several leadership positions in the Physical Education Club. 

 

 

 

Jason Saksa teaches Health. He graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BS in Education from Kent State University and has an MA in Community Health from Cleveland State. Before joining Lakewood in 1999 he taught in the Parma school system. 

 

 

Rachel Bonsky is an Intervention Specialist in the behaviorally focused unit. She holds a BA in Mild/Moderate Special Education with a minor in Disability Studies from Miami University, where she graduated cum laude. Ms. Bonsky joined LHS in 2017. Before joining Lakewood Schools, she taught at Midview High School. 

 

 

Alison Gliozzi is an Intervention Specialist for students in English, Math, Science, History, Computers and Physical Education. She has degrees in Special Education and Educational Technology from Cleveland State University as well as Transition to Work - Vocational  Programming from the University of Toledo. Mrs. Gliozzi joined LHS in 2002. She coached the girls’ rugby team for seven years, ran Student Council for six years, and started and advised Club Identity for five years and currently runs LHS Travel Club. 

 

Sarah Csongei is an Intervention Specialist in the MILES program. She graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor's in Special Education Moderate/Intensive Needs from Ohio University.  She was named PTA Educator of the Year in 2018. She began her teaching career with LHS for the 2013-14 school year.

 

 

 

Jess David is an Intervention Specialist. She graduated cum laude from Kent State with a Bachelor's degree in Moderate/Intensive Special Education. Ms. Anthony, who joined Lakewood Schools in 2010, says she is "excited to be teaching in such an excellent district." 

 

 

 

 

Denise Eplin is an Intervention Specialist who teaches the Work-Study Winking Lizard Community Based Program in the West Shore Career-Technical District. She holds a BA in Elementary Education from Cleveland State and an MA in Special Education – Emotionally Disturbed from Kent State University. Mrs. Eplin also has her Transition to Work endorsement from Kent State. Before joining Lakewood Schools in 1999, she taught at Positive Education Program. 

 

 

 

Michelle Goggin has her licensure in Education of the Handicapped with a Transition to Work endorsement. She provides transition services and career assessment job training for students in need of such services. She holds a Bachelors of Education from Ohio University and a Master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling from Kent State University. Ms Goggin joined Lakewood in 1994. 

 

 

 

Aimee Guzowski teaches English 1 and Practical Communications. She holds a Masters of Education from Ashland University in Special Education and a Bachelor of Science of Communications from Ohio University.  Prior to joining LHS for the 2015-16 school year, Ms. Guzowski worked as a Special Education assistant for Westlake City Schools. She entered the education field after working in business for 10 years. She serves as Student Council adviser. When not teaching, she enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and staying active.  

Julie May is an Intervention Specialist who specializes in reading. She is one of three teachers who run the LHS Reading Lab, an intensive intervention reading program. She holds a Bachelor’s in Education from Bowling Green State University and a Master’s in Special Education from Ohio State University. Ms. May is certified in the Wilson Reading Program Levels 1 & 2. Before joining Lakewood in 2009, she taught in the Westerville and Painesville City school systems. Prior to beginning her teaching career, Ms. May was an alcohol and drug counselor for a mental health agency as well as a mental health case manager for children. 

 

Norah Leneghan is an Intervention Specialist. She holds a bachelor's in Business Administration and an Masters of Education specializing in Mild/Moderate Disabilities from Cleveland State University. She joined the district in 2005. Prior to that, she worked for Penton Media in trade show management and digital advertising.

 

 

 

 

Lisa Matthews  is an Intervention Specialist who joined Lakewood Schools in 2013. She holds a bachelor's degree in Education from Baldwin Wallace University, with licensure as an Intervention Specialist Mild/Moderate K-12 and a master's degree in Curriculm and Instruction through Akron University with a concentration in TESOL. She says of teaching at LHS: "it is an honor and privilege to be working with such a richly diverse student body...and exceptionally devoted, hard-working teachers and administrators." 

 

 

Stacey O'Boyle is an Intervention Specialist. She holds a BA in Integrated Social Studies from Cleveland State University and a MA of Education in Mild/Moderate Educational Needs from Baldwin Wallace University. Before joining LHS in 2011, Ms. O’Boyle taught for one year in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. In 2013, she was awarded the Margaret Warner Teaching Grant. She says “she feels very grateful to be teaching in a diverse school district that works hard to provide a quality education for all students.”

 

Aileen Robinson is an Intervention Specialist. She holds a BA in Communications from Emerson College in Boston and a graduate degree in Special Education, Severe Special Needs from Northeastern University. She has worked for the Lakewood City Schools for 20 years. 

 

 

 

Kelsey Scalf is an Intervention Specialist. She holds a bachelor's from Cleveland State University in Education, graduating Cum Laude with an emphasis on Special Education: Mild to Moderate Intervention K-12. She received her Transition to Work Endorsement form University of Toledo in 2016. In 2018, she earned her Master's in Curriculum and Instruction for Advanced and Applied Teaching from Cleveland State University. She joined Lakewood City Schools in 2013. 
 

 

 

 

Cory Streets is a Moderate-Intensive Intervention Specialist in the MILES unit at LHS. He holds a B.S. in Education from Ohio University and is working toward an M.Ed from Notre Dame College. He is the adviser for the Gamers and Herpatology clubs.

 

 

 

 

Megan Sullivan is an Intervention Specialist and works in the Reading Lab. She holds a bachelor's degree from Baldwin-Wallace College, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude, and a master's degree in Educational Administration from Ashland University. She also holds a Wilson Reading Level 1 Certification. She joined the District in 2011 with LHS, then spent three years at Emerson Elementary before returning to LHS in 2015. 

 

 

 

Kelly Waldorf is an Intervention Specialist. She earned a BS in Education from Kent State University and an MA in Education from Nova Southeastern University. She is designated highly qualified in English and Math and also earned a Transition to Work endorsement from Kent State. Mrs. Waldorf did her student teaching in Belfast, Ireland. Before joining Lakewood Schools in 2008, she worked in Georgia and the Akron Schools as a Special Education teacher, and as the Vocational Special Education Coordinator in the Wayne County Schools Career Center. 

 

 

Lisa Wiegand is an Intervention Specialist who works with the Math Department providing assistance and interventions. She holds a Bachelor of General Studies from Kent State and a ME from John Carroll University. She completed coursework for a license in Special Education at Cleveland State. She joined LHS in 1994 after student teaching at Emerson Middle School.

 

 

Lisa Boettcher teaches Digital Media, Personal Finance, Intro to Programming and Exploring Technology. She holds a BA in Telecommunications and English from Michigan State University and an MA in English from Cleveland State University and completed the Career Technical Teacher Education Program at Kent State. Mrs. Boettcher joined the district in 2008 as West Shore's Communication-Career Development Specialist and moved into teaching in 2013. Prior to joining the district, she worked as a networking analyst for American Greetings and a senior telecommunications specialist at CBS/FOX. She "enjoys applying industry experience to the classroom and working with students to identify the many education and career opportunities in the IT field.

Andre Bruwer teaches Electronics. He has a BS in Education from the University of Durban in South Africa and a Master's degree in Educational Leadership. He also holds a Principal's License. He received his U.S. licensure from Ashland University. Before coming to the United States and joining Lakewood Schools in 2004, he was the head of the Dept. of Electronics and Drafting at a South African high school.  He said he loves teaching because “I love educating young minds and helping prepare them for the world.” 

 

Devan Corti teaches Culinary Arts and ServSafe for the West Shore Career-Technical District. She holds an Associate's degree in Culinary Arts and a Bachelor's in Family & Consumer Science from Johnson & Wales University. She also holds a Master’s degree of Science in Education in addition to an endorsement in Culinary & Hospitality Management from Kent State University.  Prior to joining West Shore in 2009, Mrs. Corti worked in restaurants in Colorado, New York and Cleveland, including Michael Symon's Lola. 

 

 

Nici Crislip is the Career Development Coordinator for the West Shore Career-Technical District. Her position entails coordinating and facilitating career development activities, college credit options, state testing and student recognition. 

 

 

 

Mike Dow teaches Construction Trades. He has more than 20 years' experience in the industry. Mr. Dow started as a carpenter and worked his way to a superintendent in both the residential and commercial fields. He has helped build both million-dollar homes and multi-million buildings. He is a National Center for Construction Education and Research Certified Instructor.Mr. Dow also serves as the boys' track and field coach and assistant golf coach.

 

 

Shannon Dunn teaches College & Career Readiness, Child Development, and Everyday Cooking. She holds a bachelor's in communications and master's in teaching from Kent State University. Previous to joining Lakewood Schoolsin 2017, she taught Family & Consumer Science classes in a Texas school district. 

 

 

 

Ed Holmok teaches Project Lead the Way engineering classes. He holds a BS in Engineering, is a nationally certified Project Lead the Way instructor and is licensed for Technology Education in the state of Ohio. Before joining LHS as a teacher, Mr. Holmok, an LHS graduate, was a design engineer. While he pursued his bachelor's degree, he worked as a machinist, tool maker, CNC programmer and manufacturing engineer. Of returning to teach at his alma mater, Mr. Holmok says: "I got my start at LHS and I'm thrilled to serve this community and have the opportunity to give back."

 

Diane Kastelic is the VOSE Coordinator for the West Shore Career-Technical District. She has a BFA in Medical Illustrations from the Cleveland Institute of Art and an MA in Education from Cleveland State. Mrs. Kastelic joined Lakewood Schools in 1993. 

 

 

 

Jennifer Manning teaches  Experience with Foods, Fashion Design, Creative Cooking and Career & College Readiness. She has a bachelor's in Apparel Merchandising & Design from Iowa State and earned her teaching license through Ashland University, where she also earned a master's degree in Educational Administration. She joined LHS in 2012 and previously worked in merchandising for Target at their Minneapolis headquarters. She currently serves as the West Shore Career-Tech department facilitator. 

 

 

Kellie Martin teaches Medical Office Management 1 & 2 and Computer Applications. Ms. Martin joined the District in August 2022 after a career as a nursing home administrator.

 

 

 

Rob McGorray teaches Culinary Arts/ProStart for the West Shore Career-Technical District. He holds an AA in Hospitality Management/Culinary Arts from Cuyahoga Community College.

 

 

 

 

Lynn Patton teaches Career & College Readiness, Global Foods and Everday Cooking. She holds a BS in Hospitality Management from University of Wisconsin - Stout and a teaching certificate and master's degree in Education from University of Akron as well as a technology endorsement from Bladwin Wallace University. Ms. Patton began teaching for Lakewood City Schools in 2001. R

 

 

Vicke Plute teaches Business Management and Computer Applications. She holds a BS in Business Education and an MBA in Management and Labor Relations, both from Cleveland State. Before joining Lakewood High in 1985, she taught in several small business schools. 

 

 

 

 

Dale Rerko teaches CISCO/Networking and AP Computer Science Principles. He holds a BS in Math Education and an MA in Education Technology from Baldwin  Wallace University. Mr. Rerko joined Lakewood Schools in 1999. 

 

 

 

 

 

Stephanie Severino teaches the Transition to Work program and supervises the Work Study program for students at the Marriott Hotel on W. 150th Street as part of the West Shore Career-Technical District. She holds a bachelor's degree in Special Education Multi-Handicapped K-12 and a master's degree in Early Childhood Special Education from Cleveland State. She also has a Transition to Work endorsement from Kent State. Mrs. Severino, an LHS graduate, joined Lakewood Schools in 1994 and has also taught preschool and at Grant Elementary for the district. 

 

 

 

Jacqueline J. Smith teaches Health Careers and Technology I & II . She holds a Bachelor of Science Nursing from Kent State University and a Master of Science Nursing from Drexel University. Ms. Smith is a Registered Nurse and was a Certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner until 2007. Before joining Lakewood Schools in 2005, she held a variety of nursing positions including labor and delivery nurse. Ms. Smith loves that “I get to share my passion for my career - "nursing"/health care - with young people who are motivated to get a head start on their future.” 

 

 

Emily Stephenson teaches Early Childhood Education and Senior Services. She joined Lakewood High School in the 2013-14 school year.  She is a West Shore graduate from the Career Pathways to Teaching Program.She has a Bachelor's of Science in Education, majoring in  Early Childhood Education, and a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction, both from Ohio University. She also holds a Career Technical Certificate from Kent State University. She is the adviser of Key Club and Educators Rising. 

 

 

 

Michael J. Szittai is the instructor for Auto Technology 1 & 2. He is an ASE-certified Master Automobile Technician and also certified as a service consultant and in autobody and refinishing. He was in the vocational education program at Kent State University. Mr Szittai, who also advises the Auto Tech Club, joined Lakewood in 2003. Before that, he taught Auto Technology in the Alliance school system. R

Debra Dalton is a School Counselor. 

Nina DeChant is a School Counselor. Ms. DeChant has been working for the District for the past 25 years starting out as a second grade teacher (five years) and then moving into the position of Elementary School Counselor for the next 15 years. Ms. DeChant has at LHS the past 7 years. The last two years she has become the designated 9 th grade counselor to help foster successful transition of middle school students into high school. She helps students develop individual graduation plans and has begun developing and implementing a college and career readiness classroom guidance program. She has degrees that include; B.A. (Speech Pathology) from Baldwin Wallace University, M.Ed (School Counseling) from Kent State University and Elementary Teaching Licensure from Cleveland State University. 




 

Abigaile Drost is a School Counselor. She earned a BA  from Kent State University and a Masters of Education from Malone University. She completed her practicum and internship at Garfield Middle School and Lakewood High School. Prior to working at LHS she worked in the law field for seven years. 

 

 

 

 

Lisa Gentry is a School Counselor and is the department facilitator. She earned a BA in Community Health Education from Malone University and a Master of Education in School Counseling from Cleveland State University. Prior to becoming a counselor, she worked at St. Vincent Charity Medical Center and created a patient navigation program. She served as a counselor at Garfield Middle School before moving to the high school.

 

 

 

Roberta Marcinek is a School Counselor and department facilitator. She holds a BS in Education from Baldwin Wallace College in Elementary Education K-8. She spent seven years teaching in Medina. She spent five years as a stay-at-home mom. She received her Master's of Education from Westminster College in School Counseling K-12. She spent 13 years as a Lakewood City Schools elementary counselor, three years at Lakewood City Academy as a dropout prevention counselor. In 2015, she joined Lakewood High as a counselor.  \

 

Beth Byrne is a Speech Language Pathologist. She holds and BA and an MA in Speech Language from Ohio University. She also holds a Certificate in Clinical Competence ASHA. Mrs. Byrne began working for the District in 1990. 

 

 

 

 

Barb Wolansky is a related services provider for Orientation & Mobility for special education students. She holds a BA in Social Services with a Concentration in Blind Rehabilitation from Cleveland State and a MA in Special Education from Bowling Green State University. Ms. Wolansky joined Lakewood Schools in 1987. R