Faculty and Staff
Bill Arndt
Title(s)
Interim Principal
Teacher – Grade 6 Homeroom
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mr. Arndt graduated from Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN, in 1989 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education. He has taught a combination of 3rd through 8th grade for over 30 years. He previously taught in Western Minnesota for 6 years, Wisconsin for 2 years, Illinois for 8 years, and is now in his 18th year back in Minnesota. He has served as a principal for 10 years in Wisconsin and Illinois. He currently teaches 6th grade and is serving as our interim principal.
Classroom Highlights
- Field trip to the Nickelodeon Universe at the Mall of America
- Field trip to Feed My Starving Children
- Field trip to the Minnesota State Capital and History Center
- Field trip to the River Rendezvous in Bloomington
- Field trip to the Science Museum
- School Spelling Bee (Grades 5-8)
Teaching Philosophy
The goal of my teaching, and the center of my philosophy, is training future leaders in Christ’s church. I would like to accomplish this goal by helping students gain necessary skills needed to become lifelong learners. Once they learn these skills, then they can apply them to all areas of life, including their life of service in Christ’s church.
Cheryl Streckert
Title(s)
Preschool Director
Teacher – Preschool
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Streckert holds a B.S. in Education from Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN. She started teaching simply in her own home to her own preschool-aged children and a group of neighborhood children years ago! Good Shepherd congregation called her to begin their preschool program in 2003, and she has been directing/teaching here ever since! She is married to her Engineer husband and together they have raised three children and feel very blessed to now enjoy their four grand-daughters!
Program Highlights
- Play-based Curriculum
- Daily Lessons from God’s Word, along with prayers throughout the day
- Large, challenging, fun outdoor space and indoor gym
- Flexibility of sessions, subject to availability
- A long 3 1/2 hour morning session plus optional afternoon session
- Consistent, well-trained staff
Teaching Philosophy
I believe that each child is uniquely created by our loving God and therefore has priceless worth! I strive to help children ultimately reach their God-given potential by providing a safe, loving, stimulating environment where children know they are forgiven children of God, free to make mistakes. Young children need to learn through play, often moving their bodies, to help develop the self-regulation they need to succeed. Preschool is a wonderful place to practice social/emotional skills and can set a wonderful foundation for being life-long learners and I am thrilled to be a part of it!
Hannah Koss
Title(s)
Teacher – Preschool
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Ms. Koss grew up in Rochester, Minnesota and was blessed to be raised in a Christian home that modeled the importance of fostering faith as well as serving the Lord and others. She has two older brothers, a sister-in-law, and a niece. Ms. Koss grew up understanding the importance of Christian education by attending one of our WELS grade schools, Resurrection Lutheran. She then attended a public high school and went on to attend Martin Luther College where she was a double major in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. She graduated in December of 2018 and was assigned to be an Early Childhood Director for Loving Arms Child Care Center in Wichita, KS. In January of 2023, Ms. Koss was extended a call from Good Shepherd to teach lower grades and she accepted the call to serve. She looks forward to contributing to and learning from the Ministry here at Good Shepherd.
Classroom Highlights
- Fall Field Trip
- Spring Field Trip
- Spots of Emotion
- Weekly Motivators
- Morning/Afternoon Meeting
- Spotlight Shout-Outs
- Classroom Coupons
- Happy Helpers
- Thanks Day
- Special Theme Days
- Mystery Readers
- 100th Day of School Celebration
- Christmas and Valentine’s Parties
- Christmas Program
Teaching Philosophy
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16
I believe in partnering with families to teach children lessons that will last them years beyond my classroom. First and foremost, teaching children about their Savior and their faith everyday. We shine our light to all of those around us in our words and actions. I believe that we build a classroom around Christ, we create a loving and caring environment to learn and grow. I look forward to seeing how these children will grow in their faith, grow in their friendships, and grow in character.
I also believe that each child is uniquely created and gifted by God. I love learning about my students and encouraging them to use their gifts and talents, while challenging them to try new things. My goal is to create lessons that are active and hands-on incorporating many different learning styles so that every child can be successful. I believe in guiding children to meet their goals with support and encouragement from their parents, teachers, and peers. One of my greatest joys is to see them so proud of all that they have accomplished. I cannot wait to see these children shine!
Kelsey Nimmer
Title(s)
Preschool Aide
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Nimmer graduated from Mankato State University in 2014, with her Bachelor Degree in Elementary Education. She has taught in three different school districts in kindergarten, 1st grade and 3rd grade. In 2020, Mrs. Nimmer decided to step back from teaching, to focus on her family. She has enjoyed the last four years as a stay at home mom but is excited to get back into the classroom!
Mrs. Nimmer has been married to her husband Zach, since 2012. They have two sons, Henry (2nd grade) and Evan (pre k). They live in Burnsville with their two active dogs, Polly and Buckley. Mrs. Nimmer enjoys spending time with her family, sewing and reading.
Aide Philosophy
My teaching philosophy has always been to create a loving and safe environment, where everyone is able to grow. I’m excited to be in an environment where we get to share our faith with our students and watch how God helps us grow.
Joanie Arndt
Title(s)
Teacher – Preschool
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Arndt graduated from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education. She taught 1st-2nd grades in Illinois and southwest Minnesota before stepping away from teaching to raise her family. In 2004, Mrs. Arndt returned to the classroom and began teaching preschool, first in Illinois and then at Shepherd of the Hills in Inver Grove Heights, MN. She began teaching Session 2 (afternoons) in the 4-year-old classroom at Good Shepherd in 2017.
Preschool Classroom Highlights
- Play-based Curriculum
- Daily Lessons from God’s Word, along with prayers throughout the day
- Intentional movements integrated into the learning process (i.e. “Brain Gym” or “Me Moves”)
- Mystery Bag Show-n-Tell
- Large challenging outdoor space and indoor Gym
- Joint Christmas program with the Kindergarten Class
- Field Trips (such as Nature Center, Children’s Theater, Kinder-Konzerts)
- Older group learns to play Handbells and attends Chapel
Teaching Philosophy
I believe that each child is uniquely created by God who loves them dearly. I work each day to help children grow physically, mentally, socially, emotionally and spiritually. I want to help each child build on their strengths and conquer their challenges. Young children learn as they engage in meaningful play. Preschool classrooms may look like chaotic environments, but in each corner of the room children are learning as they play.
Julia Buller
Title(s)
Teacher – Preschool Aide
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Buller graduated high school from Farmington, MN, spent 1 ½ years at Bethel College before joining the U.S. Army. She met her husband Jeff while serving at The Presidio in San Francisco. They served a year in Korea and ended their service at Fort Hood, TX. They settled in Minnesota and have been living here ever since. Jeff is retired from 32 years at Microsoft. They have two adult children. Their daughter Jessica is married to Ryan Klatt, he is the principal and upper grade teacher at Salem Lutheran in Stillwater. Jessica works part time for a school curriculum company and stays home with our grandchildren, Ivy (2) and Howie and Palmer (born on July 2nd). Our son Jake works as a lawyer for M Health Fairview in the Compliance Department. His fiancé’ Kelsey is a Graphic Artist for a children’s clothing company.
This is my 10th and last year in Mrs. Streckert’s class and it is by far the best job outside of the home that I’ve ever had!
Aide Philosophy
“With God all things are possible.” It’s so joyful to spend time with God’s precious little lambs and I love being able to teach them about our Savior. The faith of a small child is also humbling and helps me grow my faith.
Melissa Guldberg
Title(s)
School Administrative Assistant
Preschool Aide
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Guldberg accepted the role of Administrative Assistant for Good Shepherd Church & School in September 2018. In addition, she became a part-time Preschool Aide in September 2019.
Volunteering at her kid’s schools was always a joy for her and being able to work in a school today, helping children and seeing the love of Jesus taught to all is just perfect. Melissa is married to her high school sweetheart and is enjoying watching her children enter adulthood. Two of her kids are now married, one is in college and one is in high school. She is grateful for the 20 years that she was able to be a stay at home mom raising her four kids.
Favorite Bible Passage:
Proverbs 3:5 – Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. I have been through ups and downs throughout my life (as most people do) and this verse is always comforting to know that God has always got it! I may not understand why, but God has His plans and reasons, and I know I can trust Him.
Mrs. Guldberg’s Philosophy
Love each other like Christ loved us. Smile and try to bring joy to everyone I meet. A smile is free and sometimes it can be the one thing to brighten someone’s day.
Rachel Hansen
Title(s)
Teacher – Kindergarten
PTO Liaison
LEGO Club Coordinator
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Hansen graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth in 2007 with a B.S. in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education. She then went on to Martin Luther College to receive her WELS Synod Teaching Certification. In January of 2008 she received her first call to teach Kindergarten at St. John’s Lutheran School in Lake City, MN. While there she also held the roles of Athletic Director and Childcare Director. She continued to serve there until 2012 when she started her time as a stay-at-home mom! In 2018 she returned to teaching when she was called to be the Kindergarten teacher here at Good Shepherd. Mrs. Hansen and her husband, Justin, (also a teacher at Good Shepherd) have three children all of whom attend Good Shepherd.
Kindergarten Highlights
- Field Trips! Apple Orchard, The Works Museum, Local Library, Local Plays
- Kindergartener-for-a Day (Half Day Activities for incoming Kindergartners)
- Star Students!
- Bike Day in the Spring
- Celebrate Dr. Suess week with special activities all week
- Monthly Buddy Reading with the 4th grade classroom
- 100th Day of School Celebration!
- Christmas & Valentine’s Day parties
- Join students in K-8 for Panther Family Activities
- Christmas Program
- Spring Entertainment Night Program
Teaching Philosophy
Teaching is a learning and lifelong process; learning from my students and colleagues, while learning new strategies and new ideas. I believe that teaching should meet the needs of each individual student with lots of hands-on learning experiences! I feel so blessed to be able to do what I loves, in a setting where Christ’s love for us is something I can teach every day to the children.
Lori Anderson
Title(s)
Kindergarten Aide
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Anderson graduated from High School in North Dakota and received her degree from the University of Mary. She later moved to Minnesota where she met BJ Anderson. BJ is a physician and works at the University of MN. They have been married for over 23 years and have a son, Jack Anderson, who attended Good Shepherd School for his elementary years and is now a Sophomore at St. Croix Lutheran Academy. Mrs. Anderson has been a long time volunteer/employee at Good Shepherd School and Church for over 11 years. The Anderson family enjoys hiking National Parks and spending time with family including their three dogs, Beth, Bella and Addie. Jack also likes to spend time with ‘Tallon’ his turtle and ‘Noodle’ his snake.
Aide Philosophy
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works, my soul knows it very well. Psalm 139:14
The best thing about working with children is seeing all of the individual strengths and gifts that God has given them. Having the privilege of helping them grow in their knowledge and faith is a blessing.
Mollie Benjamin
Title(s)
Teacher – Grade 1
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Benjamin graduated Martin Luther College in 2012 with a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. At graduation she received her first Call to be Early Childhood Ministry Director at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church-School-Early Childhood Center in Redding, California. She served this role and taught preschool and lower grades in California for 10 years. While serving in California Mrs. Benjamin earned her Master’s in Education (Instruction) from Martin Luther College in 2017. In 2022 she accepted a new Call to serve Cornerstone Early Learning Center in Hugo, Minnesota as Early Learning Center Director. Following her summer 2023 wedding and move to Savage, Minnesota she accepted the Call to be the 1st grade teacher at Good Shepherd!
Mrs. Benjamin serves as an Adjunct Instructor in the Early Childhood division at Martin Luther College. She teaches online courses and leads professional development classes throughout the year for the college.
1st Grade Highlights
- Spring and Fall Fieldtrips
- Star Students
- 100th Day of School Celebration
- Christmas and Valentine’s Day Parties
- Parent Volunteer Activities
- Christmas Program
Teaching Philosophy
Each student is a unique child of God! I believe teaching should meet the individual needs of each student through hands-on, minds-on learning activities! The learning environment for the students will be a safe, fun, Christ-centered classroom with a growth mindset! I feel blessed to be able to share God’s Word everyday with the class. Learning is a lifelong journey for both the student and teacher, so let’s learn together!
Christianne Bentley
Title(s)
Teacher – Grade 2
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Bentley graduated from MSU-Mankato in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education. She worked as a substitute teacher in area WELS schools, taught PreK in an area child care center, and taught PreK and Kindergarten at Bloomington Lutheran School (2015-2022). Mrs. Bentley attended GSL from kindergarten through eighth grade and is very excited to be back!
2nd Grade Highlights
- Show and Tell
- Fun Field Trips
- Star Student
- Parent Volunteers/Visits
- Christmas/Valentine’s Day Parties
- Art
Teaching Philosophy
I believe my most important job as a teacher is to make my classroom a Christ-centered, fun, nurturing, and safe environment for my students. Building relationships with my students is a top priority for me and allows me to gain a better understanding of each individual’s God-given talents. I pray my students feel loved, encouraged, and supported each day by their Savior, by me, and by their classmates. It’s incredible how learning can flourish once this happens! Motivated by Christ’s perfect love for us, I talk daily with my students about how we can show our love for Christ by loving others. It’s truly a blessing to work with and guide students as they grow and learn.
Marissa Oachs
Faculty Information
Title(s)
Teacher – Grade 2
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Oachs graduated from Minnesota State University, Mankato, in 2008 with a B.S. in Athletic Training. She worked for five years at Jesus Loves Me Learning Center in Mankato, MN as a Preschool Assistant Teacher. In 2015, she went back to school at Rasmussen University and earned an additional degree in Early Childhood Education with a specialization in Child Development. In May of 2017, she received her first call to be Director and 3 & 4 year old Teacher at Little Lambs Preschool in Inver Grove Heights, MN. In February 2022, she accepted the call to teach at Good Shepherd Lutheran School. Mrs. Oachs and her husband, Josh, have three children – all of whom attended Good Shepherd Lutheran School.
2nd Grade Highlights
- Fun & Educational Field Trips
- Police Officer Visit – In School Field Trip
- Flashlight Friday
- Christmas & Valentine’s Day parties
- Show & Tell
Teaching Philosophy
My goal as a teacher is to share the love of Jesus with every child and to inspire the love of learning at an early age so that school and learning are fun and something children look forward to for the rest of their lives!
Every student is a gift from God and one of his precious Little Lambs – they will be intentionally taught at whatever level they are at and loved for who they are!
Becky Raabe
Title(s)
Teacher – Grade 3
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Raabe has a Master’s Degree of Arts in Education from MSU Mankato (2013), a Bachelor’s Degree of Arts in History (2005), and her WELS Teaching Ministry Certification (2022). She taught 9th grade World Geography in Aldine ISD (Houston, TX) for 2 years, worked as a paraprofessional in Mankato Public Schools for 1 year, taught 5-8th grade at Bloomington Living Hope Lutheran School for 4 years, and Preschool at BLLH for 6 years.
Becky and her husband Nate have 3 children: Mattea, Teddy, and Henry. The Raabes have 2 dogs: Zelda and Caesar, and have fostered in the past. Becky loves: reading, gardening, orchids, tropical plants, board games, coffee, sunshine, and knitting. She does not care for gluten (Celiac Disease) and winter weather. The Raabes are excited to become a part of the Panther family!
3rd Grade Highlights
- Show and Tell
- Christmas & Valentine Parties
- Field trips
- Book-it
- Star of the Week
Teaching Philosophy
I believe that all children can learn, but they learn and grow in different ways. I believe in using children’s strengths to help them learn confidently, and challenging them so that they grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. I believe that making Jesus the center of everything we do is important in our ever-changing secular society. Grounding our children in God’s Word and His love is the most important thing we can do as parents and educators, as it prepares them for a solid faith foundation as they grow and become more independent. My goal is to ensure our children have this firm foundation in God’s Word, so they can do everything for the glory of God.
Laura Gibson
Title(s)
Teacher – Grade 3 Aide
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Gibson began working for Good Shepherd in the fall of 2022. She has taught in elementary and preschools for over 30 years. She also worked for 5 years in early childhood (infants to kindergarten) just before coming to Good Shepherd. Laura graduated from Martin Luther College with a focus on English and Literature, but has taught all subjects at every grade level and has sub taught at the high school level also.
She loves working with children and loves Jesus!
Justin Hansen
Title(s)
Teacher – Grade 4
Contact Information
School Phone
952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mr. Hansen graduated from Martin Luther College in 2007 with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education degree. He began his ministry at St. John’s Lutheran School in Red Wing where he taught grades 3-5 and was Athletic Director for 6 years. He then accepted the call in 2016 to Good Shepherd where he has taught grades 3-6. He currently teaches 4th grade, and also phy-ed for 3rd grade. Mr. Hansen also coaches the boy’s basketball teams here at Good Shepherd. In his spare time, he enjoys coaching his children’s sports teams in the community and watching the Packers. Mr. Hansen is married to Rachel (who also teaches at Good Shepherd), and they have three children all of whom attend Good Shepherd.
4th Grade Highlights
- Beginning of the school year Pool Party
- Monthly Buddy reading with the Kindergarten classrooms
- Field trips! Varies by year, but includes: Snow tubing at Buck Hill, Climb Zone at MOA, Tours of Huntington Bank Stadium, MN Zoo, and more!
- Christmas Program
- Spring Entertainment Night Program
Teaching Philosophy
I likes to make learning fun because I believe that students learn best through collaboration and hands-on activities. I enjoy teaching God’s Word to the students in a Christ-centered school, and I believe each student has the ability to be successful.
Maddie Abel
Title(s)
Teacher – Grade 5 Homeroom
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Coming soon
5th Grade Highlights
- Coming soon
Teaching Philosophy
Coming soon
Tracy Birkholz
Title(s)
Teacher – Grades 5 & 6 English, Literature & Social Studies
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Birkholz graduated from Martin Luther College in 1997 with a BS in elementary
education (English concentration). She first taught 3rd grade at Crown of Life in W. St. Paul, followed by preschool at Shepherd of the Hills in Inver Grove Heights. Additional education experience includes teaching for the St. Croix Lutheran Academic (SCLA) summer ESL program, serving on the Bloomington Lutheran School accreditation
board, and substitute teaching for area WELS Lutheran schools. As a volunteer, Mrs. Birkholz leads the Women of Hope ministry program at Living Hope Lutheran and serves on the SCLA Alumni Board. She lives in Savage with her husband, Josh, and their three daughters.
5th & 6th Grade Highlights
- Avid classroom participation in prayer requests
- Individual and Group research projects on different cultures and people groups
- Active group discussion of thought-provoking literature
- Blossoming in self-expression through writing
Teaching Philosophy
I believe every child is a gift from God and dearly loved by our Savior. God has provided each Christian with unique gifts to serve His kingdom and the people of the world. It is my greatest privilege to help students recognize and grow in these gifts through academic study and daily encouragement.
Katie Guldberg
Title(s)
Teacher – Grades 7-8 Homeroom
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Coming soon
7th & 8th Grade Highlights
- Coming soon
Teaching Philosophy
Coming soon
Angie Koob
Title(s)
Receptionist
Hot Lunch Coordinator
Contact Information
School Phone – 952-432-5527
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. Koob accepted the role of Receptionist for Good Shepherd Church & School in August 2023.
Why Mrs. Koob wanted to work at Good Shepherd: As our boys have grown and our lives have become busier, I wanted to find something that would allow me to have more time with my family and perhaps ease some of the go, go, go that comes with parenting. I am looking forward to having my work schedule align with their school schedule and being in the same place they are all day. Being able to spend the summer at home with them (while they still want to hang out with me) is an added bonus! I am excited to explore this new path and look forward to getting to know more Good Shepherd students and their families.
Favorite Bible Passage
Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Mrs. Koob’s Philosophy
Live life with grace for yourself and others. This has proved a challenging philosophy with three young boys, but we are working on it.
Dan Walters
Title(s)
Pastor
7th-8th Grade Bible Study & Catechism
Contact Information
Other Information
Biography
Pastor Walters was installed as Good Shepherd’s Associate Pastor on January 15, 2017.
Favorite Bible Passage: “I’ve always loved Psalm 118:17: I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done. There’s a lot in this verse that clicks with my life. I get to be confident that death is not the end, but through Jesus I will live forever in heaven! Not only that, but as a pastor I get to spend my life proclaiming what the Lord has done for us in Christ. This verse says it all!”
Factors that led Pastor Dan to accept the call to GS: “I feel that Good Shepherd allowed me a place where I can put my gifts to use. I love preaching and getting to use an outreach mindset in a congregation that values Christian education, and I’m excited that Good Shepherd is a place where this can happen! I’m also excited about getting in on the ”ground floor“ of a new pastoral team here. I look forward to getting the ”lead pastor“ position filled and moving forward with ministry!”
Pastor Dan’s philosophy: “While I am a pastor, I’m also a human being. That’s pretty important, because it means I’m as flawed as anyone else! I’m trying to live out my faith and do my ministry here to the best of my abilities, but I don’t want to give the impression that I’m somehow ”above“ the members here at Good Shepherd. I strive to be down to earth and approachable in everything. I am not normally high-strung or worried about getting my way in everything. I think this is the best way to work side-by-side with others in accomplishing God’s work here!”
Kari LaVigne
Title(s)
Receptionist
Hot Lunch Coordinator
Contact Information
Other Information
Biography
Mrs. LaVigne accepted the role of Receptionist/Hot Lunch Coordinator for Good Shepherd School this past September 2024.
She has three children ages 16, 14, and 5 and is married to her husband Zack. Mrs. LaVigne lives here in Burnsville and enjoys spending time with her active kids and 3 dogs. Her favorite hobbies include spending time outdoors and cooking.
Favorite Bible Passage:
Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”