Our Faculty

Since joining The Augustine Academy as Headmaster in 2022, Mr. Caleb Douglas has been a vibrant part of our community, having already been an active parent with two of his children enrolled here. His journey in education and pastoral ministry is rich and diverse, including roles as a pastor in both New York City and Pittsburgh.
Mr. Douglas holds degrees in business, theology, and pastoral studies, and his commitment to lifelong learning is evident as he currently pursues a PhD in Historical Theology at Marquette University. As an ordained Lutheran minister, his approach to education is deeply rooted in the Charlotte Mason philosophy, which he believes powerfully affirms the dignity of each child. He is passionate about guiding students to know and love Jesus, embracing the love of God, and realizing the beauty of His creation.

Caleb’s personal story intertwines with his professional journey. He met his wife at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, and together they are raising five wonderful children, with the oldest two proudly attending TAA. Beyond his administrative duties, Caleb enjoys a dynamic life filled with reading a range of literature from theology to children’s books, cheering on the Oklahoma Sooners, indulging in running, experimenting in the kitchen, hiking, and cherishing family game nights.

A member of the TAA community since 2020, the Douglas family’s dedication to our school is a testament to their belief in our mission and values. Mr. Douglas’s leadership, academic background, and personal faith journey uniquely position him to lead The Augustine Academy in nurturing the holistic development of our students in faith, knowledge, and character.

Emily Watkins is a vibrant and committed member of The Augustine Academy, where her dedication to the hybrid Charlotte Mason model of education shines through. She possesses a rich academic background with a BA in International Relations from Wheaton College and a MA in Practical Theology from Regent College, where she specialized in children’s spiritual development.

Emily’s journey in Christian education is marked by varied and impactful roles, including serving as a children’s pastor, school Chaplain, and teacher. Her initiative in leading the Godly Play program at Christian school in Milwaukee demonstrates her deep commitment to fostering spiritual growth and creativity among young learners.

Residing in Milwaukee with her husband Jim and their four sons, Emily fully embraces city life, taking advantage of the local natural and cultural treasures. The shores of Lake Michigan hold a special place in her heart, offering a serene backdrop for her hobbies of reading, sewing, and treasure hunting, often accompanied by the joyful play of her boys. The Watkins family’s spiritual journey, encompassing experiences from Canada to Scotland and the United States, has profoundly enriched their life and perspectives, bringing a unique depth to Emily’s role at The Augustine Academy.

Lyn Reiter brings to The Augustine Academy a diverse array of expertise in both business administration and education. Her impressive 15-year career spans teaching, curriculum development, and a deep understanding of educational policies and procedures. Lyn’s educational foundation is robust, with a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire and a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. This dual academic background enables her to approach educational administration with a comprehensive and nuanced perspective.

Settled in Waukesha with her husband John, Lyn is the proud parent of three adult children. Her family’s active involvement in Elmbrook Church signifies their strong connection to and values within the community. At The Augustine Academy, Lyn’s combination of academic excellence and practical know-how positions her as an invaluable member of our team. Her contributions span from enhancing administrative processes to furthering our educational mission, embodying the spirit of excellence we uphold.

Laura Calderon enriches The Augustine Academy with her extensive administrative experience gained from the nonprofit and healthcare sectors. Her zeal for supporting TAA’s students and faculty is manifest in her commitment and thoughtful approach to her role. Laura’s notable previous work in assisting underserved communities, especially in connecting individuals with essential medical care, underscores her compassionate and service-oriented mindset.

Laura holds a Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences from Mount Mary University, a qualification complemented by a certificate in Peace Building. Her international perspective is further broadened by a study abroad stint in Costa Rica, adding a global dimension to her understanding and approach.

At home, Laura, alongside her husband Noel, takes pride in parenting their two children, who are also students at The Augustine Academy. The Calderon family is an active part of the Spring Creek Church community in Pewaukee, reflecting their commitment to faith and fellowship.

Outside of her professional commitments, Laura’s interests are diverse and engaging. She loves hiking with her family, experimenting with new culinary experiences, traveling to various parts of the world, and diving into the pages of a good book. Her varied background and pursuits bring a rich tapestry of insights and enthusiasm to her role at The Augustine Academy, contributing significantly to the vibrancy and dynamism of our school community.

Amanda Schwalm, a devoted advocate of Charlotte Mason’s educational principles, brings her rich experience from homeschooling to The Augustine Academy. Her journey began as a homeschool instructor, a role that profoundly shaped her approach to teaching. Now, as an educator for the youngest minds at The Augustine Academy, Amanda is enthusiastic about nurturing children through the exploration of truth, goodness, and beauty. She is deeply committed to serving the families in our community and draws inspiration from Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 19:14, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them.”

Living in Milwaukee with her husband, four children, and their dog Luna, Amanda enjoys leisurely family walks along the lakefront. A lifelong learner and an avid reader, her ideal moments are spent curled up with a cup of good coffee and a compelling book. Amanda’s unique skill set and heartfelt dedication make her an invaluable asset to The Augustine Academy, enriching the lives of her students and the broader school community.

Amanda Rose’s introduction to Charlotte Mason’s educational volumes eight years ago marked the beginning of a transformative homeschooling journey. Under the mentorship of experienced homeschooling mothers, she honed her skills in the Charlotte Mason methodology, applying it in various settings including a large homeschool co-op. Now, Amanda is thrilled to bring this rich experience to the early years students at The Augustine Academy.
Holding a Master’s degree in Music Composition from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, Amanda has a diverse teaching portfolio. This ranges from instructing college students in Music Theory to teaching spoken English in China, and from conducting Bible studies for children and adults to providing private music lessons to over 40 students. Her multifaceted expertise underscores her teaching approach at The Augustine Academy.
Amanda holds a profound respect for children, echoing Jesus’ encouragement for his disciples to view them with high regard. She resides nearby with her husband, Frank, and their five children. Amanda’s commitment to education, combined with her deep respect for the inherent potential of each child, makes her an invaluable asset to The Augustine Academy community.

Andrea Davenport has been fulfilling her lifelong dream as an educator for over 10 years, bringing her expertise to both public and private school settings. Her educational journey led her to receive a master’s degree with a focus on Mathematics Instruction from Alverno College in 2009, building upon her teaching degree acquired from UW-LaCrosse in 2005. Her certifications span Elementary through Middle School Education, including Special Education.

At The Augustine Academy, Andrea is dedicated to nurturing young minds, teaching first grade disciplinary subjects in the morning and instructing 5th grade math. Her approach to teaching combines a strong foundation in academic excellence with a caring, student-centered philosophy. Andrea’s commitment to fostering a love for learning in her students makes her an integral part of the The Augustine Academy community.

Andrea Yawney, a passionate and experienced educator, joined The Augustine Academy in 2023 as our 1st grade teacher. Her journey to TAA is marked by a rich tapestry of educational experiences, notably her years homeschooling her children. These years were cherished, filled with delightful read-aloud sessions and explorations into the wonders of nature—traditions she enthusiastically continues with her 1st graders.

Andrea’s love for teaching extends to poetry, music appreciation, and picture study, bringing a creative and holistic approach to her classroom. Her educational journey is both impressive and diverse. She earned her master’s degree in education and a middle childhood to early adolescence teaching license in 2011 through the collaborative Urban Education Fellows Program by Mt. Mary University and Alverno College. Prior to this, in 2000, she received a master’s in art history from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Her professional experience spans teaching in a Christian school in Milwaukee and contributing significantly to the museum education field. This blend of classroom and practical experience enriches her teaching style, making her a unique asset to our academy.

Outside the classroom, Andrea enjoys a life full of hobbies and interests. She is an avid reader, a biking enthusiast, and a baseball fan, embodying a spirit of lifelong learning and engagement with the world around her.

Andrea’s arrival at The Augustine Academy is a wonderful addition to our team. Her dedication to nurturing young minds, coupled with her diverse educational background, makes her an invaluable member of our community, inspiring our students in their formative years of learning.

Megan Heinen, an enthusiastic and dedicated educator, joined The Augustine Academy in 2023 to lead our 2nd grade class. With a background enriched by six years of teaching experience in both Milwaukee and Chicago, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for education to our community.

Megan’s journey includes a meaningful period outside the traditional classroom, where she embraced homeschooling and contributed to her church’s youth ministry program. These experiences have not only honed her educational skills but also deepened her understanding of the vital role parents play in their children’s education—a perspective perfectly aligned with TAA’s educational philosophy.

Living in Oconomowoc with her husband and three children, who are also proud students at The Augustine Academy, Megan is a true embodiment of our school’s community spirit. Her commitment to education extends beyond the classroom walls, with her life at home mirroring the values she imparts to her students.
In her free time, Megan is an avid lover of the great outdoors, often found tending to her garden or enjoying quality time with her family in nature. Her love for reading further enriches her teaching, bringing diverse perspectives and stories into her classroom.

Megan’s arrival at The Augustine Academy marks a significant addition to our team. Her experience, coupled with her dedication to nurturing young minds in both academic and character development, makes her an invaluable asset to our 2nd graders, guiding them through a crucial stage of their educational journey.

Katie Lesko’s enthusiasm for teaching and helping students thrive in their learning journey is evident in her career path. She spent five years teaching chemistry, biology, and physics in various public schools, followed by seven years dedicated to tutoring in math, science, and ACT preparation, a transition she made after the birth of her first daughter.

Katie, a graduate of Taylor University in Upland, IN, with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Chemistry Education, was first introduced to Charlotte Mason’s writings and philosophy there. These principles profoundly shaped her teaching and tutoring methods. When The Augustine Academy was founded, Katie, recognizing the alignment with Mason’s philosophy, was eager to be part of a school that embodied these values for her children.

Living in Hartland with her husband JJ and their three daughters, Katie embraces an active family life. They enjoy hiking, reading together, and engaging in family board games. Their commitment to community and faith is reflected in their active participation at Elmbrook-Lake Country Church in Hartland. Katie’s deep appreciation for Mason’s educational approach and her broad experience in the sciences make her a dynamic and valued member of the The Augustine Academy team.

Pam Szczech, a vital member of the Wales, Wisconsin community, brings a wealth of experience and a heartfelt philosophy to The Augustine Academy. Earning her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Louisiana State University, Pam’s teaching journey began in Alief, TX, where she first embraced her role as a first-grade teacher, later continuing her passion in Milwaukee at the 27th Street School.

Pam’s educational philosophy, shaped by the belief that each student is “fearfully and wonderfully made,” has been the guiding force throughout her diverse career. This approach has seen her develop educational resources for a major publisher, innovate teaching methods for an inner-city Choice school, and lead a multi-age classroom at IMPACT School in Oconomowoc.

Her journey took a personal turn from 2010 to 2016, when she homeschooled her children, culminating in her joining The Augustine Academy in 2016. Here, Pam’s holistic approach to education, intertwining her professional insights with personal experiences, has made her an invaluable asset to our team.

Alongside her husband Rob and their four children, Pam is an active member of St. Michael’s Anglican Church, engaging in various ministries. This dedication to faith and community, combined with her practical experience and philosophical depth, significantly enriches her role at The Augustine Academy.

Aja Abney’s educational journey is deeply rooted in the Charlotte Mason philosophy, a path she first discovered while homeschooling her three children. Raised in a family that revered education, Aja’s own formative years were filled with the joys of reading, sketching, and a profound connection with nature—principles she passionately imparts in her teaching.

Graduating from the University of Missouri with a degree in English Education, Aja has dedicated many years to delighting in the good, the true, and the beautiful alongside students in a variety of educational settings, including public, private, and homeschool environments. Her love for learning and natural flair for teaching have made her an invaluable asset in each role.

Joining The Augustine Academy, Aja considers it not just a job but a privilege and joy to serve the children and families of our community. She is an active member of Christ Church Madison and resides in Lake Mills with her husband and their three adult children.

In her leisure time, Aja enjoys pursuits that reflect her love for the arts and nature. She is an enthusiast of crocheting and knitting, finds solace in walks through nature, and indulges her passion for culture by visiting art museums and antique stores.

Frank Rose is delighted to be part of the teaching team at Augustine Academy, a role he cherishes deeply. Having grown up in southeastern Wisconsin, Frank’s journey to becoming a Lutheran Pastor led him to diverse experiences in China, Colorado, and Texas, enriching his teaching and learning perspective.

After earning a Master of Divinity degree from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, Frank served as a Lutheran Pastor for seven years, six in Kingston, Wisconsin, and one in Tucson, Arizona. His pastoral tenure was marked by sermon and worship leadership, Bible class teaching for both adults and children, outreach, and youth ministry. These years were filled with spiritual growth, impactful relationships, and cherished memories.

Frank finds great joy in having four of his five children attend Augustine Academy, further enhancing his connection to the school community. His wife, Amanda, contributes to this family legacy by teaching Kindergarten at The Augustine Academy. The Rose family, actively involved in a home church in Pewaukee, brings a rich tapestry of faith and community experience to their roles. Frank’s extensive pastoral background and personal dedication to education and faith make him a valuable asset to The Augustine Academy.

Lea Bowling brings a heartfelt gratitude and dedication to her role at The Augustine Academy, deeply valuing the opportunity to collaborate with parents and fellow faculty in nurturing a knowledge and love of God. Her educational background is rooted in homeschooling, an experience that has shaped her approach to teaching and learning. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Thomas Edison State University in New Jersey.

With years of experience teaching in various Christian and Christian classical schools, Lea has honed her expertise in the humanities, particularly for middle school students. Her teaching style reflects a deep commitment to imparting knowledge with creativity and compassion, fostering a love of learning in her students.

An active member of Oakwood Church, Lea’s faith and community spirit are integral to her life. Beyond her professional commitments, she enjoys a range of hobbies that reflect her creative and nurturing spirit. She is skilled in sewing and knitting, finds joy in gardening, and cherishes long walks as a way to connect with nature. Her time with friends and family is especially dear to her, as these moments embody the values of community and connection she upholds in both her personal and professional life.

Clayton Hutchins joins The Augustine Academy with a heart full of gratitude and enthusiasm, keen to contribute to the discipleship and education of our students. His rich academic journey includes a Bachelor’s degree in Biblical and Theological Studies from Bethlehem College and Seminary, Minneapolis, MN, and a Master’s in Divinity from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, KY.

With substantial experience in both teaching and ministry, Clayton serves as the pastor of Holy Cross Anglican Church in Wauwatosa, integrating his spiritual guidance with his educational role at The Augustine Academy. For Clayton, working at The Augustine Academy is a natural extension of his lifelong dedication to nurturing the spiritual and academic growth of young minds.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Clayton’s life is filled with varied pursuits. He delights in old books, board games, sightseeing, and finding peace near large bodies of water or in the serene “Up North” region. Alongside his wife Ivy and their children, Lily and Peter, he embraces a rich family life. Clayton’s diverse expertise and commitment to both faith and education render him an essential and cherished member of The Augustine Academy community.

Stephanie Shaffer’s journey to The Augustine Academy, alongside her family and US Navy chaplain husband Rick, enriches our school with diverse experiences and perspectives. A strong proponent of the Charlotte Mason philosophy, Stephanie cherishes the individuality of each child, fostering a classroom where every student is seen as an image-bearer of God and feels the nurturing presence of Jesus in their learning.

Stephanie, an adept educator and former homeschooling mom, brings her four boys’ vibrant energy to our school, each a student at The Augustine Academy. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and International Trade from Mississippi College, infusing her teaching with a broad, global outlook.

Deeply rooted in her faith, Stephanie and her family are active members of the Riverglen Christian Church in Waukesha. Her leisure time is a blend of tranquility and creativity, often spent in the calming atmosphere of a coffee shop, enjoying good company, or immersed in various artistic pursuits.

Kristen Pettigrew, a Liberty University alumna with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Crisis Counseling, and a minor in Christian Counseling, brings a lifelong passion for art to The Augustine Academy. Her artistic journey has been versatile and dynamic, ranging from redeveloping furniture to launching a business in digital graphic design for both commercial and non-profit sectors.

Kristen joined The Augustine Academy in 2020, where her enthusiasm for art education has been a source of inspiration for our students. Her commitment to teaching extends beyond The Augustine Academy; she also instructs art to homeschool families and hosts paint parties, infusing creativity and joy into diverse learning environments.

A lover of the great outdoors, Kristen’s personal interests include camping, trail running, and horseback riding. Her artistic flair, coupled with her zeal for art education, makes her a dynamic and treasured member of our community at The Augustine Academy. Kristen’s ability to nurture creativity and expression among her students is a testament to her dedication and skill.

Jasmine Ryan is a key member of The Augustine Academy, where she skillfully bridges the worlds of Mathematics and Technology. Her fascination with the intersection of logic and beauty has been the driving force behind her academic and professional journey. Jasmine holds bachelor’s degrees in Applied Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, and Physics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, showcasing her diverse expertise and passion for these fields.

Before joining The Augustine Academy, Jasmine’s career included a notable stint as a design engineering consultant. However, it was her time spent at home with her children that reignited her passion for education, particularly the Charlotte Mason method. This experience has profoundly influenced her teaching approach, especially in her ability to illuminate the good, true, and beautiful principles of mathematics to her students.

Outside the classroom, Jasmine and her family embrace a life filled with exploration and enrichment. They cherish spending time in nature, worshiping the Creator, and delving into Scripture and rich literature. As a family, they also enjoy engaging in projects that challenge them to learn new skills, reflecting a continuous journey of discovery and growth.

Diane Skrobis, founder and director of the renowned Children’s Choir of Waukesha, brings a wealth of experience to The Augustine Academy. Her choral program, encompassing four choirs from grades 1-12 and the innovative “The Singing Tree” preschool music and movement program, demonstrates her commitment to music education across all ages.

With a teaching career that spans preschool through adult learners, Diane has imparted her knowledge in various school districts including Whitnall, Waukesha, and Kettle Moraine, as well as Pius XI High School and Carroll University. Her students have consistently performed in local, state, district, and national honor choirs over the past 33 years, a testament to her exceptional guidance.

Diane’s choirs have collaborated with prestigious orchestras and choruses, such as the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and the Waukesha Symphony Orchestra, and have performed in distinguished venues from Carnegie Hall to Canterbury Cathedral. She has also contributed to the Lorenz Corporation’s music education CDs through her students’ recordings.

A respected conductor and lecturer, Diane has led state honor choirs in multiple states and shared her expertise at colleges and music conferences. At The Augustine Academy, she continues her passionate work in music education, while also serving as a substitute church musician in the area. Diane’s extensive experience and dedication to fostering musical talent enrich the educational landscape at The Augustine Academy.

Joseph Steinbart, our accomplished Strings Instructor, joined The Augustine Academy in 2023, bringing with him a deep passion for music nurtured from a young age. The youngest of seven children in a musically inclined family, Joseph started his violin journey at the age of eight, a path that has led him to become a proficient violist and violinist.

Joseph’s academic journey in music is extensive. He earned his undergraduate degree in Church Music, with a minor in Pastoral Studies from Maranatha Baptist University, where he studied viola under Lewis Rosove of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. Further honing his skills, he completed a Masters in Viola Performance and String Pedagogy at the University of Louisville, Kentucky, receiving valuable insights from Prof. Brittany MacWilliams and Suzuki training under Dr. Terry Durbin. His experience includes teaching, coaching chamber music, and participating in masterclasses with renowned musicians.

Known for his diligent work ethic, caring spirit, and analytical approach, Joseph tailors his violin and viola lessons to each student, fostering their unique potential and expression through music. Alongside his role at The Augustine Academy, he teaches at Maranatha Baptist University, Maranatha Music Prep School, and Lake Country Strings, and serves as co-viola principal for the Kettle Moraine Symphony.

Beyond his musical endeavors, Joseph enjoys a rich personal life. He is an avid reader, enjoys skate skiing, hiking, cooking, and has a sweet spot for ice cream and chocolate. His commitment to music extends to his role as the music pastor at First Baptist Church of Hartford, Wisconsin, where he leads music and directs the choir.

Theresa Dadisman joins The Augustine Academy with a heart full of enthusiasm for teaching and a passion for guiding students toward their fullest potential. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in secondary mathematics education, with minors in Bible and Spanish, from the University of Northwestern-St. Paul in St. Paul, MN.

Her teaching experience is as diverse as it is rich. Theresa spent four years teaching middle school math and math intervention at a classical Christian school in Minneapolis, MN. There, she found great fulfillment in serving underserved students, many from Spanish-speaking immigrant families. More recently, she covered fifth and sixth grade math and sixth grade Bible classes as a long-term substitute at a local Christian school. This followed a two-year stint living in Orlando, FL.

Theresa, along with her husband Andrew and their two young daughters, calls Sussex home and is an active member of Gospel Fellowship of Sussex. In her free time, she finds joy in tidying, homemaking, and indulging in her love for reading and writing poetry.

At The Augustine Academy, Theresa is excited to contribute her skills and experiences, and is equally eager to learn and grow alongside the students and staff in this vibrant educational community.

Erin Lorenz brings a wealth of experience and a nurturing spirit to her role as a Teacher’s Aide at The Augustine Academy, having joined our team in 2023. Her educational background is anchored in healthcare, with an Associate’s Degree in Nursing from St. Luke’s College of Nursing (2006) and a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from Dordt University (2007).

Erin’s professional journey in nursing spans a decade, where she dedicated herself to various fields, with a particular focus on home hospice care and pediatric nursing. This background has endowed her with a unique perspective and a deep understanding of care and compassion—qualities that she now brings to the educational environment.

Currently residing in Milwaukee, WI, with her husband and their daughter, who is a student at The Augustine Academy, Erin is deeply connected to the community she serves. Her transition from healthcare to education reflects her adaptable nature and her commitment to nurturing and supporting young minds in their formative years.

As a part of our team, Erin is a valued member, whose diverse background and caring approach enrich The Augustine Academy, contributing significantly to the supportive and dynamic learning environment we cherish at The Augustine Academy.