Meet Our Staff
Reading Specialists
Cetronia Elementary School
Ruthie Tice
Hello, I am Ruthie Tice, Reading Specialist at Cetronia Elementary School.
I have a wonderful husband, Bob, who is a Health and Physical Education teacher and Assistant A.D. at PHS. We have a little dog named Penny. I enjoy reading, exercising, walking the dog, and going to the beach.
Fogelsville Elementary School
Jessica Holben
Ironton Elementary School
Amanda Williams
Hi, I’m Amanda Williams, Reading Specialist at Ironton Elementary. Prior to becoming a Reading Specialist in 2017, I was a classroom teacher for several years. I have experience teaching Kindergarten, 1st, 3rd, and 4th grade. I received my Master’s degree in Elementary Education from West Virginia University and my Reading Specialist certification from Kutztown University. I live with my husband, Chris, two daughters, Claire and Cora, and our cat, Carl. I love spending time with my family, going on vacation to new places, and being outdoors. I love to read and hope to instill the same love of reading in the students at Ironton Elementary!
Fred J. Jaindl Elementary School
Kathy Pearsons
Hello, I am Kathy Pearson, Reading Specialist at Jaindl Elementary School.I have been working as a reading specialist in the Parkland School District for over 6 years.I am married and I have an 11 year old son and 15 year old daughter. Our family enjoys all kinds of sports and outdoor activities. My favorite place is the beach.I love to grow flowers and READ good books!
Kernsville Elementary School
Andrea Marzano
Hello! I am Andrea Marzano, Reading Specialist at Kernsville Elementary School. I received a B.S. in Elementary Education and Special Education and a Master’s in Education in Reading from Kutztown University. I have been teaching for 30+ years, and I have worked at Schnecksville Elementary, Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit #21, Ironton Elementary, and I am presently at Kernsville Elementary. I am married, and I have two daughters. I love spending time with my family, going to the movies, and finding a quiet spot to read a good book.
Kratzer Elementary School
Nikki Gelfo
Hello, I am Nikki Gelfo, Reading Specialist at Kratzer Elementary School.I have had the pleasure of being the Reading Specialist at Kratzer since 2007. Prior to that, I taught first grade in a neighboring district for eight years. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Social Work from Elizabethtown College and then received my Masters in Education in Reading from Kutztown University. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and our “furry child”, a boxer named Riggins. I also exercise when I can and have completed a few half marathons in the last few years.
Parkway Manor Elementary School
Nicole Mandry
Hello! I am Nicole Mandry, Reading Specialist at Parkway Manor Elementary School. Prior to joining the wonderful learning community at Parkway Manor, I taught fourth and first grades at Schnecksville Elementary for ten years. I also have experience teaching sixth through eighth grades. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education with a minor in Chemistry from the University of Pennsylvania. I then earned my Master of Education in Reading and Reading Specialist certification through East Stroudsburg University. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, participating in my book club, hiking, and doing yoga. My husband and I try to visit our two daughters who live in Charlotte, North Carolina and West Palm Beach, Florida as often as possible.
Schnecksville Elementary School
Kaylee Swavely
Hi! My name is Kaylee Swavely. I joined the Schnecksville family in March when our schools transitioned to online learning. This is my first year “at” Schnecksville and I could not be more excited to get to know the staff and students. I graduated from Temple University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education and then earned my Master’s degree in Language and Literacy and my Reading Specialist Certification from Penn State University. Prior to coming to Parkland, I was a first grade teacher and held a Reading Specialist position in a district near Hershey, PA. I got married this summer and live in Allentown with my husband and our puppy, Cash.
Veterans Memorial Elementary School
Taryn Gergar
Hello, I am Taryn Gergar, Reading Specialist at Veterans Memorial Elementary School. I am thrilled to be part of the Veterans Team, where I can support my love of literacy. Before coming to Parkland, I taught kindergarten, first grade, and held a Reading Specialist position in another local school district. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education at East Stroudsburg University. I then earned my Master’s in Education and a Reading Specialist Certification through Cabrini College. Outside of work I love spending time with my wonderful daughter and husband and my two rescue pups. I also enjoy working out, reading, and going to the Florida Keys to visit my family.
Title I Assistants
- Cetronia
- Fogelsville
- Ironton
- Jaindl
- Kernsville
- Kratzer
- Parkway Manor
- Schnecksville
- Veterans Memorial
Cetronia
Zaheda Hasham
Hi, my name is Zaheda Hasham and I am a Title 1 Aide at Cetronia Elementary! I graduated from Aston University in Birmingham, UK with a Bachelors in Business Administration, and then went on to work for Kaplan Test Prep as an Academic Coordinator. After having 2 sons, I stayed home for a few years and volunteered at my local Sunday School as a Kindergarten/Pre School Teacher. When my sons started school, I started working as a Co-Teacher at the Goddard School with students of various ages. I love teaching and inspiring children to be the best they can be. In my free time, I like to spend time with my family, cooking, and keeping fit!
Michele Gagliardi
Hi! My name is Michele Gagliardi. I was a substitute teacher in Parkland and Northwestern Lehigh for eight years before starting here at Cetronia. My family and I reside in the district and both my son and daughter have had the pleasure of being educated in Parkland schools! My hobbies include reading (of course), spending time with my family, and scrapbooking with Mrs. Folk. I also enjoy watching Flyers hockey and Vikings football.
Amy Johannes
Hi, my name is Amy Johannes. My husband, Frank, and I have 3 sons, Matt, Eric, and Drew. I graduated from West Chester University with a B.S. in Liberal Studies. I love walking, gardening, and spending time outdoors. I have worked in the Parkland School District since 2008.
Robyn Kleinhenz
Hi, my name is Robyn Kleinhenz. I am married with three children and have lived within the Parkland School District for over twenty years. I graduated from Seton Hall University with a degree in accounting. I enjoy reading, spending time watching my children playing sports and going to the beach in the summer.
Shadab Ashraf
Hi! My name is Shadab Ashraf. I have lived and studied in two different countries- India and U.S.A. I graduated from Penn State with Bachelor of Science in El. Ed/ Early Childhood along with K-12 ESL certificate. Teaching is my passion and I believe that teachers are primary beneficiaries in the process of education. Our strength grows from having shaped young lives and having been shaped by those lives.
My list of favorite things are endless. I love spending time with my family, reading, listening to music, and dancing. I would like to travel to different places, meet new people, and learn about their culture.
Michelle Kirn
Hello! My name is Michelle Kirn and this is my first year as a Title 1 Assistant at Cetronia. I am very happy to be here! Before having kids, I taught fifth grade in Arizona where I went to college. My family and I currently live in Breinigsville and my three children (Harrison, Hadleigh and Hayden) attend Parkland School District. In my free time, I enjoy watching my kids play sports, taking my two dogs for walks, reading and visiting family in Florida and Washington State.
Fogelsville
Cheyenne Rossanese
My name is Cheyenne Rossanese! I have been working with children since I was a freshman at Parkland High School in 2009, and have fallen in love with being around kids for a career. I am so excited to be returning to my own district, and working with all of the foxes at Fogelsville Elementary School.
Adrienne Geidner
Hello! My name is Adrienne Geidner. I graduated from Kutztown University in 2010 with my Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. I'm very excited to be a part of Fogelsville Elementary and getting the opportunity to work with children on their reading and math skills! Being a teacher is such a joy and I truly enjoy seeing children's eyes light up when they are diving into learning. I've always considered myself a "lifelong learner" and I'm looking forward to learning and growing along with your children!
Chantel Benes
Hi my name is Chantel Benes and I am a Title 1 Assistant at Fogelsville Elementary. I am very excited to help the kids in both reading and math. I have 2 daughters at Kernsville Elementary and when I am not at a soccer game or dance practice you can find me enjoying a good book out in my sun room.
Linda Bolasky
Hi! My name is Linda Bolasky. It's my first year at Fogelsville School as a Title 1 Aide. Before coming to Fogelsville School, I was a music teacher, and later a 4th Grade Paraprofessional. I am also a professional musician, and play in community bands and musical theater. In my spare time I like riding bicycle trails, camping and sewing. I'm happy to be teaching the students here at Fogelsville.
Kristy Cole
Hi! My name is Kristy Cole and this is my fourth year as a title 1 assistant at Fogelsville. I really enjoy working here with all the wonderful kids and staff. I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two kids, Michael and Corinne.
Amy Feyrer
Hello! My name is Amy Feyrer. This is my first year as a Title I assistant, but my 7th year working at Fogelsville. I was a playground aide for the past 5 years. I really enjoy working at Fogelsville and think that we have the most wonderful students around! I can’t wait to start working with them on their reading and math skills. In my free time I
Ironton
Janet Bigley
Hi! My name is Janet Bigley. I am married and have four daughters. I have a Bachelors Degree from Bloomsburg University. This is my ninth year working in the Parkland School District and my third year as a Title/DRP assistant. In my free time I like to read, spend time with my family and watch my two youngest daughters play softball. I am very excited to work with the wonderful students and staff here at Ironton!
Tina Dean
Hi! My name is Tina Dean. I graduated from Kutztown University with a degree in Regular Education and Special Education. I am married to my husband Dave. We have three children. My daughter is a graduate of Parkland High School and Penn State. My two sons both attend Parkland High School. I’m a long time volunteer for Parkland. This is my third year in the Title/DRP program. I love working with the students and staff at Ironton.
Megan Gross
Lisa Kaplan
My name is Lisa Kaplan. I graduated from Parkland High School in 2010. I went to Penn State University and received a B.S in Childhood and Early Adolescent Education. I worked as a Pre-K teacher for a few years after graduating. Now, I am starting my third year as a Title 1/DRP assistant. When I’m not working, I enjoy running and spending time with family and friends. I have enjoyed working with all of the staff and students at Ironton over the past two years. I’m looking forward to another great year!
Stacey Sanchez
Hello! My name is Stacey Sanchez and I am a Title 1 Assistant at Ironton Elementary School. I love working with children and I am so excited to work with and help all the Stallions at Ironton. When I am not at school, I am enjoying time with my family. We spend a lot of time on the soccer and football field. I am looking forward to an amazing year!
Jaindl
Kelly Flicker
Hello! My name is Kelly Flicker. I attended Elizabethtown College where I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. Before I joined the Jaindl Title team, I taught Kindergarten for two years in a child care setting. When I’m not at school, I enjoy reading, being with my family and spending time outdoors. I love to kayak and play volleyball.”
Mary Ann Huber
Hello! My name is Mary Ann Huber. I grew up on the West Coast.I am married and have four children that graduated from Parkland.I have been very involved with my children’s activities including soccer, basketball and baseball.I have been with Parkland for many years, serving as a Teacher assistant or Title I aide at Kratzer, Cetronia and Jaindl.
Melissa Severo
Hello, my name is Melissa Severo. Most students at Jaindl know me as Mrs. S. This is my fourth year in the Parkland SD and my first year working in Title I. I grew up in the Poconos and received my B.A in Psychology from Cedar Crest College and my M.A in School Counseling from Rosemont College. I have two young children who both attend Parkland. When I’m not in school, I enjoy watching my children play sports, reading, relaxing on the beach and spending time with family and friends.
Kernsville
Molly Bombich
Hi, my name is Molly Bombich. I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh and attended Robert Morris University where I obtained my teaching certification. I took a break from teaching to stay home with my children, but I am thrilled to be back working with kids! I enjoy reading and exercising, but LOVE spending time with my family. I am very excited to be working with the students at Kernsville Elementary and watching them learn and grow!
Rebecca Hagemes
I am Rebecca Hagemes. I earned a B.S. in education at Kutztown University. I was a swimmer in high school and college. While I was in college I taught pre-k and kindergarten classes in a daycare setting. I love animals and have 2 dogs. I am married with 2 children. After having children I stayed at home for a few years. I have always loved working with children of all ages. In my spare time I enjoy reading, watching football and soccer and going to my children’s activities.
Cynthia Herring
My name is Cindy Herring, and I am a Title I Assistant at Kernsville Elementary. I attended DeSales University and received my Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. I have been a substitute teacher for Parkland School District, as well as other districts. I love working with children and helping them learn and grow. When I am not at school teaching, I love spending time with my husband and our twins. Some of my hobbies include gardening, decorating, baking, reading and visiting the beach. I am very excited to be a part of the Kernsville PACK!
Hi, my name is Julie Snyder. I am a graduate of the Pennsylvania State University and have worked with children in various capacities, including the field of Child Abuse Treatment and Prevention. I have worked as a Title 1 Assistant at Kernsville since 2008, and consider it a great joy and privilege to help our students improve their Reading and Math skills. I am happily married with four adult children, a grandson and a rescue dog! In my free time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, cooking, gardening, reading, and participating in outdoor and charitable activities.
Donna Verna
Hello! My name is Donna Verna, and I am thrilled to be a Title 1 Assistant at Kernsville Elementary School. I have a Bachelor's and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education from Cabrini University and a Reading Specialist Certificate from Cedar Crest College. I am an experienced teacher with several years in first grade, third grade, and the last few in kindergarten. All three of my daughters went through Parkland schools, and I am proud to be a part of such an excellent school district.
Hi! My name is Denise Yesenofski, and I started at Kernsville in 1997 as a Title Aide. I am happily married. I have three grown children, one son and two daughters, all graduates of Parkland High School. In my free time I enjoy traveling, hiking, reading and spending time with my family and friends.
Kratzer
Elizabeth Annunziata
Hi! My name is Elizabeth Annunziata. I am married and have three grown children. I am a former school teacher, and am excited to return to the classroom to work with the Title I program. Working with children has always been a joy of mine. I have been working with the Title I children for over eight years and look forward to another year helping students achieve. During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband, children and friends. For relaxation, I enjoy gardening and swimming.
Stephanie Berger
Hi! My name is Stephanie Berger. I have worked at Kratzer for the last several years as a Teaching Assistant and Substitute. This year, I am excited to work with the Kratzer Kids as a Title Aide! I am also very busy with my family…my husband and I have three boys who all attend Parkland School District. I am looking forward to a great year of Reading and Math FUN!!
Tara Imdorf
Hello! My name is Tara Imdorf. I have been married for 20 years and have 3 children in the district. My daughter and older son are in the high school and my younger son is at OMS. They keep me very busy along with my job as a title aide. I have worked at Kratzer for over five years, first as a playground aide and last year I was very excited to become a title aide. I am looking forward to working with all the great students at Kratzer!
Kaitlyn McConnell
Hi! My name is Kaitlyn McConnell and I am a title 1 teacher at Kratzer Elementary. I graduated from Bloomsburg University with a B.S. in Early Childhood Education. Previously, I have taught 4th grade for one year in Berryville, Virginia. During my free time I enjoy watching the Eagles, playing with my 3 month old puppy, and spending time with my family and friends. I am so excited to start working with the Kratzer kids and staff!
Jill Nevenglosky
Hi! My name is Jill Nevenglosky and I am a Parkland graduate. I have a son who is also in the Parkland School District. I’ve taught infants up to school age children for a few years. I started at Parkland as a non-teacher sub and was hired on to be a Title 1 Assistant. I absolutely love working with children and am excited to start my career at Kratzer. In my spare time, I love spending time with my family and going shopping.
Vanesa Peters
Hi! My name is Vanesa Peters. I have been married for 15 years and I have three children. My twins are at Kratzer and my oldest daughter is at OMS. I was a stay at home mom for 12 years and prior to that I was a Social Worker. I love working with children. During my free time I am a cheerleading coach for my youngest daughter for the North Parkland Flags team. I also enjoy watching my son play flag football for North Parkland and my oldest daughter plays softball for a tournament team. I am looking forward to a great year at Kratzer!
Christina Rama
Hello! My name is Christina Rama. I graduated from Lehigh Carbon Community College with my associate’s degree in Special Education. I enjoy working with children and seeing them grow academically! I am married with two children and have a lovable golden retriever. They all keep me very busy. In my spare time I enjoy reading, baking, cooking, exercising, and traveling (any place will do just fine). I’m excited to be a part of the Title 1 team at Kratzer and looking forward to a great school year!
Mary Jane Ward
Hi, my name is Mary Jane Ward. My husband, Bob and I live in South Whitehall Township where we raised our four children, all graduates of Parkland High School. I am thrilled to have been a part of the “Kratzer Family” since 2005. Watching the students here grow and learn has been extremely rewarding to me. It’s an honor to be part of their elementary school experience!
Parkway Manor
Suzanne Neupauer
Hello, my name is Suzanne Neupauer. I am married with two grown daughters. I enjoy movies, traveling and dining out. I have been a teaching assistant at Parkway Manor since 2004.
Susan Platt
Hi! My name is Susan Platt. In 2017, I began working as a Title One reading aide, but my family has been part of the Parkway Manor community since 2010. Before we started our family, I taught Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade. My favorite thing to do is to go to the beach with my family.
Schnecksville
Laurie Wallace Theisen
Hi! My name is Laurie Wallace Theisen. Before my husband & I moved to Allentown in 1999, I taught special education at the high school & middle school levels for 10 years. Since we’ve been here, I work at a church and teach at Northampton Community College. My husband and I met doing a show and our daughter Olivia inherited the "theatre bug" as well! I also enjoy crossword puzzles, history books/documentaries and travel. I am very excited to be working at Schnecksville!
Marsha Cervantes
Hi! My name is Marsha Cervantes. I joined the staff at Schnecksville Elementary in October, 2007. However, I have been a part of the Schnecksville family since 1998 when my oldest daughter started kindergarten. I have 3 daughters, Erica, Rebecca and Victoria, and a granddaughter, Adeline. Erica recently graduated from DeSales, Rebecca attends DeSales and Victoria is a student at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Educating children and helping them reach their full potential is my passion.
Kim Gilbert
Hi! My name is Kim Gilbert. I was born and raised in Palmerton, PA. I have two children who attended Schnecksville Elementary and now graduated from college. I enjoy family time, going to the beach, and school activities. I’m looking forward to another good year!
Tina Jarrett
Hi! My name is Tina Jarrett. I was born and raised in Allentown, PA and attended Catasaqua High School. I majored in Education at Lock Haven University and worked as a counselor at Kids Peace for 27 years. I have three wonderful children. I love to garden and teach.
Ann Lizak
Greetings! I am Ann Lizak Title 1 Instructional Aide. I enjoy working with students of all ages and helping them to reach their potential.I have three sons~ Ethan , Jake and Adam. My husband, Rich, is a doctor who practices in Lehighton, PA. My fellow Title workmates would tell you I enjoy trying to make them laugh and have fun at work. Creating art is another favorite of mine. I will make props or create costumes for our Reader’s Theater plays performed by students.We are a household filled with pets & friends year round!
Noelle Thrash
Hi! My name is Noelle Thrash, but your children will most likely refer to me as Ms. T. I was raised in Schnecksville and graduated from Parkland High School. I began my college education in architecture at Carnegie Mellon, but quickly found the town surrounding Roger Williams University in RI to be more my speed. My passion changed to education while traveling the world as an army spouse and working in the Department of Defense’s School System. We have 5 fantastic and vastly different children that keep us busy. When I’m not out supporting the kids, you can find me working on a house reno project, crafting, or spending time in my garden.