College for Kids Instructors

College for Kids is proud of its roster of instructors which include Penn State Behrend faculty and staff, experienced community teachers, and local business professionals. Instructors offer a diverse class selection in a safe hands-on learning environment, which is sure to enhance a child's education by challenging their imagination, creativity, and desire to learn.

Instructors are generally available at the drop-off location prior to class. If you would like to meet your child's instructor, please notify one of the College for Kids staff members to arrange this.

Join Our Team

If you are an educator or have extensive experience in a particular field and would like to be considered, or would like to recommend someone with these qualifications, please email College for Kids or call 814-898-6871 for more information. All instructors are required to have FBI Fingerprint, Pennsylvania Criminal, and Child Abuse Clearances.

2020 College for Kids Instructors

Jennifer Angelo

  • Education: Bachelor of Arts in Biology, Master of Education from Slippery Rock University, certified 7-12 in Biology

  • Experience: 2019 CFK Student coordinator, nanny/babysitter, volunteer soccer coach, hobbies include baking/cooking

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I would like to teach at CFK so that I can carry over my knowledge from the classroom and implement it in a way that's fun and less serious, yet still meaningful and enriching."

Tom Atkins

  • Education: B.S., Broadcast Journalism, Iowa State University

  • Experience: Evening Meteorologist-JET-TV & FOX 66; Instructor in Meteorology Penn State Behrend

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "It has become tradition and I like it!"

Heidi Baloga

  • Education: Elementary Education, Slippery Rock University; Reading Specialist, Edinboro University.

  • Experience: 20 years teaching grades K-5. K-2 reading and reading interventions, GEARS after school program.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "Extra income and fun summer activity. I taught last year and enjoyed the experience."

Edward Beck

  • Education: Elementary Education, B.A., Mansfield; English, Minor; Special Education, M.S.

  • Experience: Taught in the public-school system for 25 years.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I enjoy working with children in this age group and interest level. I taught high school in the Erie School District."

Maureen Beck

  • Education: State University of New York, Horticulture, and IUP, certificate for teaching.

  • Experience: Taught horticulture for 20 years, hobbies and skiing, and sailing.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "The students are excited to take the classes, very enthusiastic."

Tyler Chrispen

  • Education: Master of Science in Secondary Education program at Mercyhurst University; Bachelor of Science in Biology, Mercyhurst University; Certification in Secondary Biology and Middle School Math

  • Experience: My hobbies include many outdoor activities, which can help me with an ecology type course with CFK. I love the outdoors, as well as hands-on scientific experiments.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "Simply put, I absolutely love teaching. I think in today's age, it is so important for kids to "get their hands dirty" rather than stay inside and play video games or be on their phones. Utilizing the tools provided by Penn State Behrend, the kids will have a great time inside and outside the classroom."

Lisa Ciecierski

  • Education: Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on literacy from Kent State University. 

  • Experience: Over 155 years of teaching with Erie Public Schools as a language arts teacher, reading specialist, and reading coach. Over 10 years teaching literacy in higher education.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "As the director of the PennLake National Writing Project, we are seeking to expand our outreach to youth in the Erie Area. Teaching for College for Kids will give us the opportunity to do so."

Matthew Dennis

  • Education: Current Ph.D. candidate in Criminology at Indiana University of Pennsylvania; Master's in American Studies from Arizona State University; Bachelor's in Criminal Justice from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.

  • Experience: Substitute teacher, graduate student, high school and middle school football coach.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I enjoy learning about and teaching a variety of different topics. I believe education is essential and that reaching kids and making learning fun for them produces lifelong learners who are contributors to society."

Brian DeVore

  • Education: B.S., Penn State Behrend; M.S. Special Education, Mercyhurst University.

  • Experience: Technology Education Teacher and LEGO Robotics Coach at J.S. Wilson Middle School.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I like the focus of a hands-on learning experience."

Catherine DeVore

  • Education: B.A., Elementary Education, Minor in Spanish, and M.S. Special Education, Mercyhurst University.

  • Experience: 16 years teaching 3rd-6th grade in the Erie Area with 12 of those at Harborcreek School District.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I enjoy working with students and planting the seed for learning."

Ann Dunkerton

  • Education: Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Clarion University

  • Experience: Substitute teacher, Erie Zoo volunteer, Retired Penn State Extension Educator, 4-H/Youth development, Bradford Little Theatre veteran actor with directing experience

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I love working with youth and seeing them engage in fun, expressive activities. Participation in theater inspires creative, self-confidence and teamwork, and as a former 4H educator, my motto continues to be "learn by doing."

Jerald Fenner

  • Education: B.S in Elementary Education, Edinboro University.

  • Experience: 29 years of teaching experience, currently a 5th grade teacher at Iroquois Elementary School.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I enjoy teaching. I enjoy having the ability to get to know students and teach them new concepts and information. As I get to know the students, it is exciting to see and understand what motivates them."

Sean Fleming

  • Education: B.S., Secondary Education Social Studies, Slippery Rock University.

  • Experience: 9-12th Grade Social Studies at Cathedral Preparatory High School. Formerly taught 9th and 11th grade social studies at Central Career and Technical School. Two years as an instructor of College for Kids.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a child/student "get it" or show a passion for learning."

Jim Gavio

  • Education: B.S. Secondary Education, concentration in Earth & Space Science

  • Experience: Over 25 years teaching Astronomy and Space Science in the Planetarium environment

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I like teaching College for Kids because it gives me a chance to share my interest in space with kids while they also have fun. They have the opportunity to be exposed to information that they wouldn't not get during their regular education."

Matt Greene

  • Education: Business Education, B.S.Ed., Indiana University of Pennsylvania, 2013. Clarion University of Pennsylvania, M.Ed., Technology Concentration, 2017. Point Park University, Post Baccalaureate certificate, Secondary School Administration, 2018.

  • Experience: Business Education Teacher at Fairview High School 2014-Present. Erie Insurance, IT Service Desk, 2014.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I really enjoy seeing the kids have fun while learning computer science. Computer science can help students become better problem solvers, which will help them find success in school and later in their careers."

Gayle Gollmer

  • Education: B.S in Elementary and Special Education, MA in Student Personnel Services, MA in Secondary School Guidance

  • Experience: High School guidance counselor for 18 years, owner of Magnolia Run Kennels dog boarding kennel, love to read and travel

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I have always had a passion for teaching and enjoy watching young people have fun while learning."

Kitty Harrington

  • Education: Villa Maria College, B.A., English; University of Pittsburgh, Master's in Library Science.

  • Experience: 36 years Children's Librarian-Erie County Library, Long career as local storyteller using children's picture books, fairy tales, and legends- Love Baking!

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I am passionate about children's books and the opportunity to explore the new and exciting adventure of science and technology in children's learning."

Tami Hritzay

  • Education: B.S., Art Education, Edinboro University.

  • Experience: Chautauqua Institution teacher in Young Artists and Special Studies programs; Erie Art Museum; Edinboro University (Kids camp program, high school art program, and adult-noncredit classes); Allegheny College (high school art program); returning teacher at CFK; and artist demonstrating and showing at Campbell's Pottery; author of "The Hole in the Wall" series. 30+ years of teaching art.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "Art is my passion. I will never tire of encouraging and inspiring younger artists to be all that they can be! In a world of black and white… let's color our world!"

Susan Holtgrefe

  • Education: B.S., meteorology, University of Oklahoma.

  • Experience: Over 5 years as a high school CyberPatriot coach (Nation Defensive Cyber security Competition). I have taught several student summer camps; two intro to cyber security classes and as an assistant for sea perch camp.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "My children have attended CFK for years, so I know of the excellence of the program. I have a passion for teaching cyber security and I believe that school age students are the best age to introduce defensive cyber skills."

Joel V. Hunt, Ph.D.

  • Education: Ph.D., Music Theory, University of California at Santa Barbara MA Music Composition, University of California at Santa Barbara BM Music Composition and Saxophone Performance, State University of New York at Freedonia

  • Experience: I am an Associate Teaching Professor of Music and Digital Media, Arts, and Technology at Penn State Behrend. I teach music technology, music theory, electronic music history, and jazz history. I also direct the Behrend Jazz Ensemble. My creative and research interests include developing software for algorithmic composition and improvisation, computer analysis of popular music and jazz, and music production. I am also a saxophone player specializing in contemporary music, performance with live electronics, and jazz improvisation.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "Music technology is fun and creative way for students to begin to engage with STEAM concepts. I am delighted to have the opportunity to introduce students to the world of music production. I am looking forward to making music with you."

Casey Jack

  • Education: B.S., Elementary Education, Edinboro University; M. Reading., Edinboro University; Kidding Around Yoga (KAY) certified kids' Yoga instructor.

  • Experience: 15 years + experience of public-school teaching, tutoring and coaching. 19 years personal yoga classes and over 2 years of owning A+Events Kids, Inc. Yoga classes for kids.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "Yoga has multiple benefits for everyone, including kids. If introduced at a younger age, yoga has the possibility to boost confident and give kids the tools they need to reduce stress and anxiety."

Arnold Johnson

  • Education: Graduate of Thiel College-Respiratory Care Program 1983, Graduate of Edinboro University, BA psychology 2001, Master Certification in Karate 1999

  • Experience: Founder of American Shotokan karate dojo 1984. Trained in Korean karate, Kune Tao Kungfu, Goshin jutsu karate, Iaido Japanese sword, Tai Chi, Chi-kung, Yoga and meditation.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I see it as an excellent opportunity. I have trained young people since 1967. I enjoy their energy and perspective. The satisfaction I have received from in a part of their development is beyond description. By utilizing patience, there's no limit to the positive influence of quality interaction. "

Shelby Malone

  • Education: Undergraduate degree in Psychology with a minor in Special Education; Graduate Master of Education, Edinboro University

  • Experience: Worked at Stairways Behavioral Health for four years

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I am interested in teaching for College for Kids because I love being a part of the Erie community, and I am very dedicated to serving my students and assisting them in developing ways to positively navigate their way thought the emotions that come with everyday life."

Russ Martin

  • Education: Masters of Business Administration –Penn State Behrend

  • Experience: 15+ years of experience in Information Technology across many areas of interest

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I enjoy nothing more than teaching the younger generation all of the steps that go into developing the sites and games they use daily. To be able to allow them to see behind the curtain of what is involved as well as to get allow them to help build a site they can share with friends/family... there is nothing more rewarding."

Barb Nodes-Nakoski

  • Education: M.S. Special Education, Mercyhurst College; Bachelor of Music, Music Education, Mercyhurst University; Graduate Certificate, Gifted Education: Arizona State University

  • Experience: A teacher in Erie School District, over 24 years. Experience teaching the following: elementary music, middle school chorus, primary learning support, supplemental gifted education

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "College for Kids allows me to share and teach subject that I am passionate about!"

Sheila Ogden

  • Education: B.S., Communications & Media Studies, Penn State University. Master's and Teaching Certification from Robert Morris University. Certified to teach English 7-12, Communications 7-12.

  • Experience: Currently teach a class called Creative Productions that focuses on using technology to communicate in today's world. We make videos, podcast, print materials, and any other special projects the school might ask for us. I enjoy photography and creating video content when I'm not at school, too!

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I love the ideas of giving kids the opportunity to have a fun and educational experience that is really driven by what their interests are. I work with high school age students so being able to work with a younger group would be fun and eye opening. I am a Behrend Alumni and I am excited to be a part of this super successful program!"

Severine Patanakul

  • Education: PhD Bilingual Education, New York University; MA in French, Portland State University; MA in Linguistics, Portland State University; BA in English and Teaching French as a Foreign Language, University of Poitiers, France.

  • Experience: I taught French and English as a Second Language in various settings in 2001. I love traveling and exploring new places. I enjoy baking with and for my kids. I love photography and enjoy exploring art museums.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I believe it is important for children to make connections between their everyday lives and learning and have fun doing so. I would love to expose children in the Erie are to my native language and culture and engage in fun activities that will teach them skills that they can bring home."

Dan Quiggle

  • Education: B.A., History, Penn State Behrend, Social Studies Certification.

  • Experience:I have been teaching 7th and 8th grade at the Harborcreek Junior High for 14 years now!

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "Because it is so much fun and I can continue to be a kid at heart!"

Patti Rial

  • Education: B.S., Education, Edinboro University; M.Ed., Edinboro University; certified Elementary and Reading specialist.

  • Experience: Thirty-three years teaching experience K-7; currently teaching seventh grade reading. Hobbies include camping, crafts, travel, and history.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I want to share my experiences and my love of history with young people. I hope in this sharing that they will acquire a curiosity and appreciation for our heritage."

Allison Richmond

  • Education: BFA, Creative Writing and Minors, English and History, Penn State Behrend; M.Ed., Secondary Education, Edinboro University

  • Experience: Writing tutor PSB 2012-2015, Substitute teacher 2015-2017, YMCA Before and After School Care 2017-2018, AmeriCorps Member at Fairview Middle School 2018-2019, and AmeriCorps Member at Iroquois Elementary School 2019-present. I am a writer, and I love reading, crafting, and photography!

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I love working with students through hands on experiences! It truly lets students not only interact with the content but deepen their own passions and talents."

Nicole Rzodkiewicz

  • Education: Undergraduate degree from Indiana Univ. of PA. Early Childhood (PreK-6) and Special Education (K-8) Certificates, currently enrolled in Educational Leadership for master's degree at Indiana University of PA.

  • Experience: Second and fourth grade teacher at Klein Elementary School, Time for Me Supervisor-Respite program at The Barber National Institute (2016-present), Keystone SMILES AmeriCorps

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "Moving beyond the tough curriculum and engaging student in hands on, authentic, real learning is one of my favorite parts of teaching. I love being able to connect with students beyond just the everyday academic areas. Forming relationships around common interests is also a great privilege with students."

Vicki Saska

  • Education: B.S. in Elementary/Special Education, Edinboro University, Master's in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment.

  • Experience: Special Education teacher for the Fort LeBoeuf School District from 2003-current. I have experience in teaching gifted glasses, enrichment classes, math re-teaching classes, beginning Spanish classes, and students in need of Learning Support in grades K-5. AmeriCorps member assigned to the Millcreek Township School District working with the elementary-age students in need of academic and/or behavioral support.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "The College for Kids program allows experiential learning to happen. The hands-on approach is designed to meet the needs of all learners and the families have the opportunity to self-select the classes based on individual interests. The factors allow for a higher level of engagement from the students."

Paul Semrau

  • Education: B.A., Humanities; M.S., Special Education; certified to teach Elementary and Special Education and High School English.

  • Experience: Son, husband, father, and grandfather; 17 years as a Technical Training Instructor at Verizon/GTE; 3 years as the Emotional Support Teacher at Seneca High School.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "What a fun way to spend the summer! CFK is a blast!"

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "For seven years, I have organized Model UN conferences for high school and middle school students. Providing these students with opportunities to deliberate issues in international relations has been very rewarding. I am delighted at the opportunity to share my love and knowledge for international affairs with the College for Kids students."

Tim Schweitzer

  • Education: B.S., Biology Penn State Behrend Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Science Education degree, Kent State General Science Certification, University of Pheonix Masters of Curriculum Design

  • Experience: 9 yrs teaching high school science, 12 years teaching middle school science

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: New challenges

Theresa Tonelli

  • Education: B.A., Elementary Education, minor in History, Mercyhurst College; Master's in Special Education, Mercyhurst College.

  • Experience: Taught with the Erie School District 10.5 years; Taught for the expERIEence Children's Museum for 10 years, Bricks for Kidz.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I love seeing the kids from year to year and how they've grown. I enjoy watching their faces when they learn something and understand it. It makes learning fun. It is structured learning, but things that kids actually want to learn about, so they are excited."

Kristin Tregaskis

  • Education: I graduated from Slippery Rock University with a B.S. in Elementary and Special Education. Graduate with Master of Education in Reading and Reading Specialist at Gannon University. I teach 3rd grade at Our Lady of Peace and have been part of the Crusaders Family for 4 years!

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I started out working CFK as a student coordinator in the summer of 2013. After two years, I started teaching my own classes."

Jake Trojak

  • Education: Instructional Media (M.S.) Wilkes University; Physics, General Science, Secondary Education (B.S.), Grove City College.

  • Experience: Physics and Math teacher at Iroquois High School since 2010, College for Kids instructor since 2016.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I love teaching and I love kids. Teaching College for Kids gives me an opportunity to teach an age group some subject matter that I don't get to teach during the school year."

Hayden Weaver

  • Education: Penn State Behrend dual major – Business and Business Economics.

  • Experience: Participated in USA Ultimate Beach Nationals in 2016, Tournament director of International Youth Club Regional Championship event held in Erie 2017.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "Ultimate is a great non-contact, coed sport that is growing in popularity at all age levels. I would like the opportunity to teach at College for Kids to give them a change to get started at a young age, because I did not find the sport until college. Ultimate is a great character and community builder and the sport will be great for the Erie area."

Melissa Weismiller

  • Education: United States Air Force, Pennsylvania Paraprofessional Certificate

  • Experience: Paraprofessional 12 years, College for Kids 9 years.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "I always want the children to have fun and learn skills they can use throughout their lives."

Mrs. Vicki Zellefrow

  • Education: Master's Equivalency Elementary & Special Education, Mercyhurst University

  • Experience: Master's Equivalency Elementary & Special Education, Mercyhurst University Paraprofessional 12 years, College for Kids 9 years.

  • Why I teach at College for Kids: "College for Kids is an exciting opportunity to share with the children by engaging them in exciting and challenging activities while allowing them to utilize their school skills and have FUN! The relaxing atmosphere and flexibly with activities provide classes that the children will truly enjoy."