Our Staff
The teachers and staff at Kradwell School are experienced and dedicated professionals, committed to building a learning environment that empowers and accepts every student for who they are. They enjoy working one-on-one with students, and truly embrace the differences that make each person special. Many have a long tenure with Kradwell, which speaks to their passion for educating, mentoring, and helping students rise up to reach their full potential.
Mary Helen Schulte
Director/Principal414-454-6599
mary.schulte@aah.org
Mary Helen joined the faculty in 2006 as a Special Education/Middle School Teacher. She was named Assistant Principal in January 2013 and has been Principal since 2015. She received her B.S. and M.S. in Special Education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
I enjoy spending time with family and friends, playing games, and listening to good music.
Erin Housiaux
Dean of Students414-773-4354
erin.housiaux@aah.org
Erin Housiaux joined the faculty in 2022 as the Dean of Students. She brings with her more than 20 years of experience in schools. Erin studied English and Education in her undergraduate work at Bucknell University and also earned her Masters' Degree in Educational Leadership. She is a relational leader who finds joy in making connections.
I enjoy spending time with my family, my extremely busy yellow-lab, and reading mysteries.
Leslie Newman
Program Coordinator414-454-6593
leslie.newman@aah.org
Leslie joined the faculty in 1996. She has her B.A. in History and a M.A. in Social Welfare from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
I enjoy walking my dog, spending time with my family and friends, and learning new things.
Jamie Moilanen
Math and Physical Education Teacher414-773-4353
jamie.moilanen@aah.org
Jamie joined the Kradwell staff in 2002. She has a B.A. in School and Community Health from Winona State University.
I enjoy taking photographs, especially of my sons' sports.
Jon Van Beckum
Social Studies and Physical Education Teacher414-454-6775
jon.vanbeckum@aah.org
Jon joined the Kradwell faculty in 1998. He has a B.A. in History from St. Norbert's College and an M.S. in Anthropology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
I like to read and spend time outdoors.
Janelle Piontek
English Teacher414-454-6674
janelle.piontek@aah.org
Janelle joined the Kradwell faculty in 2005. She has a B.S. in Secondary Education from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse and an M.E. in Instructional Technology from Cardinal Stritch University.
I enjoy hiking, biking, cooking, and gardening.
Deborah Pietsch
Math Teacher414-454-6592
deborah.pietsch@aah.org
Deborah joined the Kradwell staff in 2014. She has a B.S. in Special Education from the University of Illinois.
I enjoy reading and watching my kids play hockey.
Mary Kline
English and Social Studies Teacher414-395-8125
mary.kline@aah.org
Mary joined the Kradwell faculty in 1995. She has a B.A. in History from Marquette University and a Master's in Comparative Literacy from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
I like to travel.
Dianne Patzfahl-Vorce
Science, Life Skills, and Transitions Teacher414-773-4355
dianne.patzfahl-vorce@aah.org
Dianne joined the Kradwell faculty in 2010. She has a B.S. in Learning Disabilities from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, an M.A. in Learning Disabilities from Cardinal Stritch University, and a M.A. in Reading from Cardinal Stritch University.
I enjoy my Wheaten Terrier, cooking, and traveling.
Patrice Noonan
Art Therapist414-773-4326
patrice.noonan@aah.org
Patrice joined the Kradwell staff in 2004. She has a B.A. and M.S. in Art Therapy from Mount Mary University.
I enjoy playing tennis, drawing, and spending time with my family.
Avatara-Maya Sierra
Teacher's Aideavataramaya.sierra@aah.org
Avatara-Maya Sierra joined the Kradwell faculty in October 2022. She has a M.A. in English Writing and a B.A. in Visual Art and Design from Mount Mary University. She has been working with special needs children since 2018.
I enjoy working at my alterations and dress-making shop, as well as novel writing. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, traipsing through nature, and riding my Italian motorcycle.