Stephanie Alberico
School Psychologist
Kim Ballingham
Land Trust Paraeducator
Work Email:
Brett Bawden
Principal
Work Phone: 385-646-4962
Work Email:
I couldn’t be more excited to join the William Penn waddle (I just learned that's what you call a group of penguins)! I love to learn; that's why I decided to become an educator. I started my career in education as a 6th grade teacher and more recently I have been the principal of Magna Elementary, and Jackling Elementary. My family and I are proud graduates of Granite Schools. My wife graduated from Cyprus High School, my daughter graduated from Kearns High School, and I graduated from Hunter High School. I feel so lucky to be part of a school with such a great legacy of learning and commitment. It is my honor and duty to maintain our school as a place where students feel physically and emotionally safe to learn. I hope to continue to work together to cultivate a community where students are empowered to explore their own learning through guided inquiry, hard work, and the arts.
Mariah Benson
Work Email:
I am so excited to join the William Penn team as a dance teacher! I received my degree in Dance Education from Weber State University, where I have shared my knowledge with many different communities in the Northern Utah area. I believe that dance is not only a fun activity but also a way to connect with oneself, others, and the environment. I look forward to bringing my experience and enthusiasm to the students at William Penn and helping them discover the joy and benefits of dance.
LaRene Carlson
Principal’s Secretary
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Robert Carlson
Land Trust Paraeducator
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Robb hails originally from northern Colorado, and moved to the Salt Lake area in the summer of 2021. He is in his second year at William Penn as the ML Paraeducator. Prior to public education, Robb spent a 16-year career as a children, youth, and family minister, and has been a summer camp counselor and director for elementary schoolers for the last 21 years.
He has a deep commitment to helping young people realize their potential and foster an environment for healthy and confident future generations. Robb enjoys all things outdoors, and lives in Sugar House with his wife, Sara (AP calculus teacher at Skyline High School) and two cats, Annie and Bella.
Go Penguins!
Jodi Christensen
Librarian
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Francisco Diaz
5th Grade Teacher
Work Email:
I wanted to take this opportunity to tell you a little bit about me and my background. I was born and raised in Venezuela and have lived in the United States for almost eleven years. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish Literature and a Master’s degree in Reading & Writing. My work experience includes time spent in Elementary, High School, and College. I also spent time studying and working in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This is going to be my seventh year in Granite school District and my first year at William Penn Elementary. Previously, I was a Third Grade Dual Immersion teacher for six years at Vista Elementary. I am looking forward to meeting each of you and knowing more about your child.
I have a passion for teaching because I believe each student has a different and unique potential. I enjoy the process of teaching and watching my students learn and grow in front of me. And I love coming up with creative ideas to help learning be a fun adventure rather than something boring and dreaded. My goal for each student when they move on from my class at the end of the year is for them to not only have learned many new things but to have walked away enjoying their time and later reflect on this as a happy and positive experience.
I am happy to be a part of the William Penn family this year. I believe in communication as a key to support everyone, so please feel free to contact me about any concerns you have during the school year because I’m more than happy to help.
Thank you,
Mr. Diaz
Shantelle Diaz
5th Grade Teacher
Work Email:
Supply List
I am so excited to be here at William Penn elementary. This is my 14th year with Granite school district and I have taught in 4th and 6th grade in both elementary and junior high. I have a Masters degree in Education and endorsements in STEM and ESL. I am honored to be a past teacher of the year with Granite school district. I recently married the love of my life and like to spend free time traveling, reading, painting, and hiking.
Natalie El-Deiry
Chair
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Jennette Fordham
Technology Coach
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Tashina Foster
Playground Paraeducator
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Judy Ginsberg
5th Grade Teacher
Work Email:
Supply List
As an Air Force "brat", I grew up all over the world. Some of the interesting places I lived were Germany, Texas, Hawaii, and Alaska. My parents retired in Utah, where I graduated from Westminster College, got married, and got my first teaching job all in the same summer! I have been teaching for 27 years, all in 4th and 5th grade. They are my favorite. I have been at William Penn for 20 of those years. It is a wonderful school. Both of my children attended the William Penn Dual Immersion Program. My oldest son is now in the Musical Theatre Program at the University of Utah, and my youngest son is attending Utah Valley University and is a new firefighter in Spanish Fork. My family enjoys outdoor concerts and camping with our dogs in the summer and skiing in the winter.
Adam Gray
Parent SCC Member
Work Email:
Kaitlin Holton
Kindergarten Teacher
Work Email:
Supply List NOTE: I prefer baby wipes over Clorox wipes.
I am so excited to be joining the William Penn family and I am thrilled to be teaching kindergarten this year! My past experiences in the business world as well as in the classroom have given me extensive opportunities in leading and motivating groups and individuals. I am so excited to be back in the classroom where my passion has always been. I've had the privilege of teaching in Fiji, Hawaii, New York City and Utah. I met my husband while attending BYU-Hawaii, where I received my B.S. in Elementary Education. Following college, we moved to Utah and have raised our family in my husband's hometown over the past 14 years. I was born and raised in Washington DC and love all of the diverse experiences that I have had living all over the U.S. I bring a vibrant energy and a passion for active learning to the classroom. When I'm not in the classroom, you can find me outdoors, mountain biking, running, or cheering on my three amazing kids at their various sports events. My love for being active and engaged translates into my teaching style, where I aim to create a dynamic, supportive, and fun learning environment for our little ones. I am looking forward to a fantastic year ahead, filled with growth, discovery, and lots of fun. Together, we will make this year unforgettable for your child!
I am so excited to be joining the William Penn family and I am thrilled to be teaching kindergarten this year! My past experiences in the business world as well as in the classroom have given me extensive opportunities in leading and motivating groups and individuals. I am so excited to be back in the classroom where my passion has always been. I've had the privilege of teaching in Fiji, Hawaii, New York City and Utah. I met my husband while attending BYU-Hawaii, where I received my B.S. in Elementary Education. Following college, we moved to Utah and have raised our family in my husband's hometown over the past 14 years. I was born and raised in Washington DC and love all of the diverse experiences that I have had living all over the U.S. I bring a vibrant energy and a passion for active learning to the classroom. When I'm not in the classroom, you can find me outdoors, mountain biking, running, or cheering on my three amazing kids at their various sports events. My love for being active and engaged translates into my teaching style, where I aim to create a dynamic, supportive, and fun learning environment for our little ones. I am looking forward to a fantastic year ahead, filled with growth, discovery, and lots of fun. Together, we will make this year unforgettable for your child!
Kathy Jedrzejczyk
Parent SCC Member
Work Email:
Annie Karren
Parent SCC Member
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Katie Knudson
Parent SCC Member
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Robert Long
Land Trust Paraeducator
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Benjamin Meredith
Assistant Principal
Work Email:
I am honored to be part of the William Penn Elementary community! I began my career in education in 2013 and spent ten wonderful years in the classroom, teaching grades 2, 3, 5, and 6. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of serving as an assistant principal at West Lake Junior High and most recently held a split assignment supporting both Hunter and Jackling Elementary Schools.
My family and I live in Holladay. My wife is also a dedicated educator, and we have two amazing children who keep us on our toes. Education is truly my passion, but outside of school, I enjoy riding roller coasters and have an unusual amount of knowledge about trees—I’m always happy to share if you’re curious!
I’m excited to begin this new chapter at William Penn. Let’s go, Penguins!
Michael Perry
Head Custodian
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Lisa Peterson
Literacy Coach
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Alissa Pope
Kindergarten Teacher
Work Email:
Supply List
I have spent 19 years teaching at William Penn and 3 years at Canyon Rim, integrating arts and technology into my curriculum. I particularly enjoy working with first and second graders, encouraging students to explore their talents and interests. My classroom emphasizes kindness and the understanding that everyone excels in different areas, fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time with my husband and four children, camping, playing games, and being with my family at the beach.
I have spent 19 years teaching at William Penn and 3 years at Canyon Rim, integrating arts and technology into my curriculum. I particularly enjoy working with first and second graders, encouraging students to explore their talents and interests. My classroom emphasizes kindness and the understanding that everyone excels in different areas, fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time with my husband and four children, camping, playing games, and being with my family at the beach.
Severo Quintana
Office Clerk
Work Email:
Tricia Reynolds
Special Education Teacher
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Melinda Riggs
Social Worker
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Maria Rivas
2nd Grade-Dual Immersion Teacher
Work Email:
Supply List
I am Maria Jose Rivas de Castellanos, I was born in Venezuela on July 29, 1983, I am 42 years old. I am married and have a 14-year-old girl named Amanda. I studied education with a master's degree in educational management. I have 17 years of experience working with children, 16 years in Venezuela and 1 year here at the William Penn School in second grade, I like my profession, I speak Spanish, I am learning English and I understand a lot. I like this country and above all this state, I feel part of it. I like respect, responsibility, kindness, sharing with family, and communicative.
I am Maria Jose Rivas de Castellanos, I was born in Venezuela on July 29, 1983, I am 42 years old. I am married and have a 14-year-old girl named Amanda. I studied education with a master's degree in educational management. I have 17 years of experience working with children, 16 years in Venezuela and 1 year here at the William Penn School in second grade, I like my profession, I speak Spanish, I am learning English and I understand a lot. I like this country and above all this state, I feel part of it. I like respect, responsibility, kindness, sharing with family, and communicative.
Hamed Sadeghi
Vice Chair
Work Email:
Karlyn Salazar
BTS-Drama Teacher
Work Email:
Marilee Smith
Special Education Paraeducator
Work Email:
Sheryl White
Kindergarten Teacher
Work Email:
Supply List NOTE: I prefer baby wipes over Clorox wipes.
I am so excited to be back at William Penn!! I have taught in the Canyons District, St. Sophia’s, Oakridge and Penn. I love teaching and my favorite is Kindergarten! My husband and I are empty nesters, but see our son and daughter every day. We love being outdoors and traveling. I am looking forward to a fantastic year.
I am so excited to be back at William Penn!! I have taught in the Canyons District, St. Sophia’s, Oakridge and Penn. I love teaching and my favorite is Kindergarten! My husband and I are empty nesters, but see our son and daughter every day. We love being outdoors and traveling. I am looking forward to a fantastic year.
Teresa Zajic
1st Grade – Dual Immersion Teacher
Work Email:
Supply List
Hola, welcome to the 1st grade Spanish DLI classroom. This year we are going to learn Spanish and have fun. My name is Maria Teresa Zajic. I'm from Mexico. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from a University in Mexico and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction in ESL/Bilingual Education from Arizona State University. I moved to the State of Utah with my husband and my daughter to start a new journey. My hobbies are spending time with my family, going to new places, and hiking. I started working at William Penn Elementary in 2014. I am glad to be your child’s 1st grade Spanish Dual Immersion teacher. During this school year, your child will learn many new skills and learn the academic concepts of Literature, Math, Science, and Social Studies in Spanish. It will be exciting and fun. I am excited to start this new school year. It is a pleasure for me to be your child's teacher. I will help make this year a great, fun, and good learning experience for your child.
Hola, welcome to the 1st grade Spanish DLI classroom. This year we are going to learn Spanish and have fun. My name is Maria Teresa Zajic. I'm from Mexico. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from a University in Mexico and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction in ESL/Bilingual Education from Arizona State University. I moved to the State of Utah with my husband and my daughter to start a new journey. My hobbies are spending time with my family, going to new places, and hiking. I started working at William Penn Elementary in 2014. I am glad to be your child’s 1st grade Spanish Dual Immersion teacher. During this school year, your child will learn many new skills and learn the academic concepts of Literature, Math, Science, and Social Studies in Spanish. It will be exciting and fun. I am excited to start this new school year. It is a pleasure for me to be your child's teacher. I will help make this year a great, fun, and good learning experience for your child.
