Four new teachers join Ipswich School staff

Ipswich School students headed back to school on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2020.

Four new teachers will welcome them for the new year. They are:

Michael Champagne

Teaching position: K-12 Information Technology

Family and Background: I have a son, a senior in college and a daughter who is an eighth grader in Lincoln, Neb. I graduated from Aberdeen Central and moved to Lincoln, Neb. earning my BS in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska. I have a Masters in Educational Leadership from Doane University.

Teaching Experience: Teaching 13 years in Lincoln, Neb. - one year at East High School and 12 years at Culler Middle School

This year I'm looking forward to - meeting and getting to know all my students and the Ipswich Community.

In my spare time I like to: Spend time relaxing at my family's cabin or working on houses doing remodeling work or building decks. And watch University of Nebraska athletic competitions... Go Huskers!

Nate Collins

Teaching position: Vocal Music

Family and Background: I grew up in Belle Fourche and I graduated from Belle Fourche High School. I pursued my degree in music education at Dakota Wesleyan University. This is where I met my wife MaKayla (Kilber). I graduated with a degree in vocal and instrumental music in 2018.

Teaching Experience: I taught for two years in Selby, as their K12 vocal/band director.

This year I'm looking forward to - getting back to the music and growing the choir program, as well as getting to meet the students.

In my spare time I like to: Farm with my wife and in-laws as well as read, watch movies, and spending time with my wife and my family.

Ashley Gibbs

Teaching position: Junior Kindergarten – 8th Grade Math and Science teacher at Deerfield Elementary

Family and Background: I am from Groton. I graduated from South Dakota State University in Brookings in December of 2019. My parents are Steve and Ann Gibbs, I have an older sister, Abby, and a younger brother, Clark.

Teaching Experience: First-year teacher at Deerfield Colony

This year I'm looking forward to - beginning my teaching career and getting to know my students to help them best learn and grow.

In my spare time I like to: Spend time with friends and family, go to the lake, read, and go shopping.

Stephanie Kaiser

Teaching position: Middle School Language Arts

Family and Background: My family is originally from St. Louis. I have a Bachelor in Social Work and a Masters in Teaching Reading.

Teaching Experience: I taught Title I reading in St. Louis for two years. I was in Texas for 11 years following my first teaching job. I am returning to the classroom now after a 16 year break.

This year I'm looking forward to - helping students develop a love of reading. There are so many worlds and experiences that kids can be a part of through books!

In my spare time I like to: Read, garden, cook and bake, hike and travel!