Stephanie Alberico
School Psychologist
Specialized Education
Rachel Allen
1st Grade Teacher
English Language Arts
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Supply List
Hi! I am Rachel Allen. I love teaching first grade because it is so rewarding to watch my students learn new things. I have been teaching at Penn for 18 years. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy nature walks, spending time with my family, and eating Mexican food. One of my big dreams is to visit as many National Parks as possible.
Kim Ballingham
Land Trust Paraeducator
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Brett Bawden
Principal
Work Phone: 385-646-4962
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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
Dance Teacher
Performing Arts
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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.
Carola Booth
4th and 5th Grade Teacher
Spanish Language Arts
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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!
Elle Chounlamountry
Work Email:
Supply List
Welcome to 5th grade! My name is Ms. Chounlamountry, and I am so excited to be your teacher this year. This is my fourth year teaching 5th and 6th grade, and I hold a degree in Elementary Education from Brigham Young University—where I had the incredible opportunity to student-teach in Washington, D.C.—along with a K-12 endorsement in Teaching English Language Learners. Originally from Central California, I’ve lived in Utah for eight years and currently reside in Sandy with my husband. I speak both Portuguese and Spanish, and when I’m not in the classroom, I love cooking new recipes, exploring the outdoors, watching sports, and spending time with family and friends. I can’t wait to meet you all and make this an amazing school year!
Welcome to 5th grade! My name is Ms. Chounlamountry, and I am so excited to be your teacher this year. This is my fourth year teaching 5th and 6th grade, and I hold a degree in Elementary Education from Brigham Young University—where I had the incredible opportunity to student-teach in Washington, D.C.—along with a K-12 endorsement in Teaching English Language Learners. Originally from Central California, I’ve lived in Utah for eight years and currently reside in Sandy with my husband. I speak both Portuguese and Spanish, and when I’m not in the classroom, I love cooking new recipes, exploring the outdoors, watching sports, and spending time with family and friends. I can’t wait to meet you all and make this an amazing school year!
Jodi Christensen
Librarian
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Francisco Diaz
4th Grade Teacher
Spanish Language Arts
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I wanted to share a little about myself and my background. I was born and raised in Venezuela and have lived in the United States for nearly twelve years. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish Literature and a Master’s degree in Reading & Writing. I have experience teaching in elementary, high school, and college settings, and I also studied and worked in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This will be my ninth year in Granite School District and my third year at William Penn Elementary. Before joining William Penn, I taught Third Grade Dual Immersion at Vista Elementary for six years.
I am passionate about teaching and helping students grow academically and personally while making learning fun and meaningful. Since traveling is one of my greatest passions, I strongly believe that learning a language is not only about speaking and writing, but also about developing cultural appreciation and understanding different perspectives around the world. I also believe that maintaining positive communication with families is an important part of supporting student success, and I look forward to working together throughout the school year.
Shantelle Diaz
4th and 5th Grade Teacher
Science
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4th Grade Supply List
5th Grade Supply List
I am so excited to be here at William Penn elementary. I have taught more than 15 years with Granite school district and I have taught 4th through 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 do speak Spanish but teach in English. I love to travel, read, bike, and paint.
Natalie El-Deiry
Chair
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Tashina Foster
Playground Paraeducator
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Jen Foulke
2nd Grade Teacher
English Language Arts
Work Phone: 385.646.4960
Work Email:
Supply List
For the past 30 years, I have had the joy of teaching at William Penn. I earned my undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education from Westminster College and my master's degree with an emphasis in reading from the University of Utah. Literacy is truly my passion, and I love helping children become excited about reading and writing. In our classroom, we focus on problem solving, critical thinking and showing knowledge in a variety of meaningful ways.
My two daughters are proud William Penn Dual Immersion alumna, and both are graduates from the University of Utah School of Nursing. Outside the classroom, I enjoy traveling, reading, golfing, gardening, attending musicals, and visiting art galleries. I love being a part of the William Penn family! Go Penguins!
McCall Fry
4th Grade Teacher
English Language Arts
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Supply List
I graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in Elementary Education. I have multiple endorsements, and I love helping students learn and develop a love for school. I have taught 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade! Outside of work, I enjoy baking, spending time outdoors, reading, traveling, and making memories with my son. I love teaching at Penn!
Judy Ginsberg
4th Grade Teacher
Math
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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.
Mindy Graham
3rd Grade Teacher
Spanish Language Arts and Math
Work Email:
Supply List
Virtual Classroom
¡Hola! Me llamo Maestra Graham, and I have been teaching 3rd grade at Penn since 2008. I was also lucky to attend Penn as a child, so I’ve had many years to enjoy this wonderful school! I taught one year in English and then I started teaching in the Spanish Immersion Program. I love teaching Math, Science, and Social Studies in Spanish. Learning new skills can be tricky but learning them in a second language is an even bigger challenge. It is such a joy to watch my students grow in their skills and confidence as each year progresses. I am passionate about the arts and enjoy incorporating them into my classroom. In my free time, I love to read, attend the theater, travel, swim, and go on adventures with my family and friends. I’m grateful to work in such a great school and wonderful community!
Adam Gray
Parent SCC Member
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Susana Haskins
2nd Grade
Spanish Language Arts and Math
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Samantha Hedman
3rd Grade Teacher
English Language Arts
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Supply List
Hello! My name is Samantha Hedman. I graduated from Utah State University and have been teaching since 2018. I have a Language Art Emphasis and endorsements in ESL and LETRS. I have been at William Penn Elementary School since 2019.
In my free time, I love swimming, trying new restaurants, cooking and baking, going to the movies, traveling, and spending time with my family. I am a huge fan of Disney and Harry Potter. I have two dogs named Nana and Tinkerbell. My son was born in 2023 and is the best part of my life! I recently traveled to Guam and Japan. I also love scuba diving and have completed 16 dives around the world.
I love teaching, especially language arts, and I hope students leave my classroom with a lifelong love of reading.
Kaitlin Holton
Kindergarten Teacher
Early Literacy and Math
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
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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
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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
Instructional Coaching
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Alissa Pope
Kindergarten Teacher
Early Literacy and Math
Work Email:
Supply List
I have been teaching for 22 years and am passionate about early childhood education, especially kindergarten and helping students build a strong foundation for reading success.
I am a nurturing and organized educator who loves my profession and deeply cares for the children I teach. I enjoy creating engaging learning experiences by integrating technology, dance, movement, drama, and art into the curriculum to support creativity and active learning.
My classroom is centered on kindness, confidence-building, and the belief that every child has unique strengths and talents to share in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our four children. As a family, we love camping, playing games, cheering on the Packers, and proudly supporting the University of Utah Utes.
I have been teaching for 22 years and am passionate about early childhood education, especially kindergarten and helping students build a strong foundation for reading success.
I am a nurturing and organized educator who loves my profession and deeply cares for the children I teach. I enjoy creating engaging learning experiences by integrating technology, dance, movement, drama, and art into the curriculum to support creativity and active learning.
My classroom is centered on kindness, confidence-building, and the belief that every child has unique strengths and talents to share in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our four children. As a family, we love camping, playing games, cheering on the Packers, and proudly supporting the University of Utah Utes.
Severo Quintana
Office Clerk
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Tricia Reynolds
Special Education Teacher
Specialized Education
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Melinda Riggs
Social Worker
Specialized Education
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Leide Rivas
1st and 2nd Grade Teacher
Spanish Language Arts and Math
Work Email:
Supply List
Mrs. Leide is a dedicated educator in the Spanish Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program, with 16 years of teaching experience, with 10 years in Venezuela and 6 years in Utah. She has taught 1st and 4th-grade classes within the DLI program and, starting now, will be teaching a combined split 1st and 2nd-grade class in Spanish. She is passionate about teaching second languages and is committed to helping young students enjoy the process of learning Spanish. As an attentive and organized teacher, she integrates technology, singing, and dance into her instruction. Mrs. Leide also serves as the coach for the school's LEGO League (FLL) team, guiding students in teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation. Her classroom is grounded in kindness, fostering confidence, and the belief that every child possesses unique strengths to share. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, as well as attending her son's football games.
Mrs. Leide is a dedicated educator in the Spanish Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program, with 16 years of teaching experience, with 10 years in Venezuela and 6 years in Utah. She has taught 1st and 4th-grade classes within the DLI program and, starting now, will be teaching a combined split 1st and 2nd-grade class in Spanish. She is passionate about teaching second languages and is committed to helping young students enjoy the process of learning Spanish. As an attentive and organized teacher, she integrates technology, singing, and dance into her instruction. Mrs. Leide also serves as the coach for the school's LEGO League (FLL) team, guiding students in teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation. Her classroom is grounded in kindness, fostering confidence, and the belief that every child possesses unique strengths to share. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, as well as attending her son's football games.
Hamed Sadeghi
Vice Chair
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Nancy Sessions
3rd Grade Teacher
English Language Arts
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Supply List
Hello everyone, I am Nancy Sessions. I just completed my 21st year of teaching, time flies when you’re having fun! I am looking forward to teaching third grade for the 2026-2027 school year. I joined the William Penn family three years ago. The prior four years I taught at Spring Lane Elementary. I have taught in Salt Lake and Wasatch districts as well. I have taught each year between second and sixth grades. Each grade offers unique experiences to learn and improve my practice as an educator. Teaching is a lot like yoga. I strive to learn new skills but still have room for improvement. I look forward to meeting in person. Enjoy your summer vacation!
Benjamin Shepard
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Marilee Smith
Special Education Paraeducator
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Sheryl White
Kindergarten Teacher
Early Literacy and Math
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.
Andrea Wood
5th Grade Teacher
Math
Work Email:
Supply List
Welcome to the “Wood”s! This year, I boldly teach math to every 5th grader as I transition to fifth grade! I am committed to providing a learning environment that is not only exciting and very organized, but also safe, fun, and full of learning from bell to bell. This is my 7th year teaching at William Penn, and my 17th year of teaching altogether, having also taught 3rd and 4th grade, and as a music specialist for a year. I am very musical and artistically creative. I love to run a “tight ship” with great expectations, procedures, and organization, making a calm learning environment.
I have five wonderful children and, between my hubby and I, three more step kids! Together we have 5 amazing grandchildren, who brighten my life! I love singing, acting, painting, art, gardening, and home renovations! If you ever have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at: adwood@graniteschools.org. I look forward to teaching math to your child this year!
Teresa Zajic
1st Grade
Spanish Language Arts and Math
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.
