Old Mission Peninsula School
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  • Home
  • Who We Are
    • FAQ's
    • Gallery
    • Old Mission Peninsula Education Foundation >
      • Donate
    • Our Crew
    • School Board
    • PTO (Parent Teacher Organization)
    • Volunteering With OMPS
  • Resources
    • Bata Bus
    • Calendar
    • Camp >
      • After School Camp
      • Summer Camp
      • Camp Invention >
        • Camp Invention Website
    • COVID-19
    • Employment
    • Hot Lunch >
      • Parent Login - Hot Lunch
    • LEAP
    • PreSchool
    • Panther Tales
    • School Forms
    • Transparency Reporting
  • Enroll
  • Donate
    • Raise the Roof Project
    • Foundation Donation
    • PTO Donation
  • Contact

Panther Crew

Danielle Clayton - Principal

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I graduated from Aurora University with a Masters in Elementary Education in 2007.  Since then, I have had the pleasure of teaching in a variety of different states. I have also had the unique experience of helping jump start an early intervention reading program (Dolly Parton Imagination Library), in Sitka, Alaska, and working for a Early Childhood nonprofit organization in Mobile, Alabama.
Why Teach?
Teaching gives me the opportunity to watch and facilitate children overcoming challenges and reaching for their best version of themselves. I whole heartedly believe in the "power of yet," and I love helping children achieve their goals.  ​
What excites you about omps?
I am excited that the Coast Guard has moved us to such a beautiful and unique place.  I am looking forward to learning more about Traverse City from my students and sharing my love and passion of persevering through challenging academics with them. I love the community support that Old Mission Peninsula School has, and I am excited to be a part of this family network.
interests/hobbies
I love spending time with my family, exploring new adventures. Since I was young, I have always loved riding horses, running and going to the beach.

Renee Kolle - Principal

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I grew up in Traverse City.  I attended Eastern Michigan University for my undergrad and Grand Valley State University for my Masters.
Why Teach?
I chose education because working with kids is an amazing experience, helping them learn and grow.  They make me laugh every day, and they inspire me to continue to see the world through their eyes.  Seeing a child’s eyes light up when they learn something new, have an idea, or grasp a new concept, is incredibly rewarding to me.
What excites you about omps?
I'm very excited to be a part of a brand new school.  The energy and passion going into this upcoming school year is truly awesome and I can't wait to jump right in.  I have always loved the community and environment in which OMPS sits, and I know both will be utilized throughout the school year.  Students will have a fresh, real world learning experience at OMPS with these benefits and curriculum offered. I am so thrilled that I get to be a part of all of it!
interests/hobbies
My number one interest is travel. My family and I (husband and daughter) travel when we can, but it's not as often as I'd like! I love experiencing different cultures, the traditions, food, lifestyle, etc.  It gets me out of my own world and helps me to remember the global picture.  Other hobbies include: reading, being outside whether it's swimming and boating or hiking through snow and skiing. 

Darla Eimers - Office Manager

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I have an Associate Degree in Applied Science and am currently working toward a Bachelor Degree in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in Anthropology.
What excites you about omps?
I am excited about everything in the new school year!  Not only will I be starting in my new position, but my son, Quinlan, will be attending OMPS as a new student.
interests/hobbies
I have several different hobbies, including scuba diving, fencing, both land and nautical archaeology, and I am in the process of learning to play the violin. I love challenges, trying new things, and learning in general.

Leslie Ketko - Reading Interventionist

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Illinois State University with a degree in Fine Art and a minor in Social work.
what excited you about omps?
I live on Old Mission Peninsula and have been involved in our school for thirteen years and counting. I have volunteered for every school position and event! Now I am excited that I get to spend my days working at our wonderful school. I am excited for this year, seeing familiar faces again and meeting new ones. I am looking forward to utilizing our beautiful campus for hands on outdoor learning.
interests/hobbies
I love spending time outside, visiting friends and family. We spend most of our time out at our barn with our horses.

Leah Derris - Lead Preschool Teacher/Director

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I have Associates Degree is in Early Education, Bachelors Degree is in Community Education and Engagement with two sub majors in Administration and Childcare.
Why Teach?
I teach because I want to provide children with the best early childhood experiences to help shape their minds for the future
What excites you about omps?
I am so excited for OMPS to have a preschool Program. The peninsula has a perfect atmosphere for students to grow and learn. ​
interests/hobbies
When I’m not teaching, I enjoy working out and being outdoors.

Cheri Stainforth- Preschool Teacher

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I graduated with a BA from Saginaw Valley State University. I have worked
with children in some capacity my entire career! I enjoyed 13 years at an
elementary school in Frankenmuth, 6 of those years were spent in
preschool. For many years, I had the privilege of working with children and
their families who were a part of the Special Education program. I am an
advocate for ALL children regardless of their abilities. For the past 4 years,
I have been the Early Literacy Specialist at the Wickson District Library in
Frankenmuth. I am looking forward to getting back to my favorite place-
the classroom! 
​
Why Teach?
​I honestly get excited when I am around children. Their energy is
contagious! There is nothing better than seeing a child grow and develop
right before your eyes! Getting to know each child individually and
fostering a love for education is such an amazing opportunity!​
What excites you about omps?
​I am so excited to be a part of this awesome OMPS family! When I drove
up to the building, I had to pinch myself! Wow! What an incredible
location! Although, nothing compares to when I walked into the school for
the first time! It felt like home. No kidding! I am excited to be a part of this
fabulous school.​
interests/hobbies
​I love spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy boating, painting,
reading, bike riding, SUP, walking, and my dog, Finley!

Courtney Kierczynski - Kindergarten

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Western Michigan University, 2008 with a Bachelors of Science in Education, majoring in elementary education. I am presently working on my Masters Degree through Grand Valley State University.
Why Teach?
Since a very young age teaching has been a passion of mine. I can remember making my brother and cousins “play” school while I taught them in our living room. Once in elementary school I had amazing experiences and teachers throughout my education, especially in Kindergarten. I remember taking a field trip to my teachers lake house where we learned all about our beautiful area and community, I left thinking, “this is what I want to do when I grow up”.
What excites you about omps?
I am most excited about being part of this new journey at Old Mission Peninsula School alongside our students, crew and community. It has been a dream of mine since graduating from college to work at the school where I learned to be a respectable, caring and exceptional learner. I look forward to an amazing school year and building relationships that will last a lifetime.
interests/hobbies
Our family can be found on a boat, beach or hike in the summer and ice fishing, sledding and having bon fires during the winter! My husband and I have a one year old son, Jack, and a golden retriever, Wally!

Kaitlyn Thomas - Kindergarten

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I grew up in Sault Ste. Marie, MI before attending Michigan State University where I earned my degree in Elementary Education with a focus in Language Arts and a minor in Child Development. 
Why Teach?
It has always been a dream of mine to teach, and to be able to create a classroom community where all children feel welcomed, safe, and encouraged.  I am excited to be able to do that this coming year.
What excites you about omps?
I was attracted to Old Mission Peninsula School because of the strong community support system with common goals for our students; this kind of support will help our students go above and beyond.
interests/hobbies
In my free time I love to be outdoors, and even more importantly on the water with my family.  I could not be more excited for the school year ahead!

Kaile Bartnick - First Grade

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Central Michigan University with an Early Childhood Degree in Education.
Why Teach?
After redirecting my career to education, I felt very passionate about guiding and helping young children make and learn valuable lifelong choices to make them better citizens in today’s world.
What excites you about omps?
I feel very fortunate and excited to be a part of the OMPS team. I  strongly believe in the philosophy and vision that the school will be providing to their students along with involving the Community as much as possible. OMPS feels like a school family.
interests/hobbies
I enjoy golfing and spending time in the Upper Peninsula stream fishing and exploring the beaches along Lake Superior with my husband and two Jack Russell Terriers.

Courtney Morgan - First Grade

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graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary 
Education from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.​
Why Teach?
When I was growing up I had some of the most amazing teachers. They inspired me and developed a love for learning within myself. I want to be that for my students. As a teacher, you have this unique ability to help shape students and the future, and I want to be a part of that change. I want to be a person who students can see as safe and supportive; a person who sees their strengths and believes in them. I hope to empower them with strategies and help them develop their own desire and love for learning.
What excites you about omps?
 Last year I was a guest teacher throughout the year. I fell in love with the school’s community, staff and students. This year I get to be with them full time and build relationships with my class and their families throughout the whole year! ​
interests/hobbies
I love cooking and can often be found reading a good book until way past my bedtime. On weekends my family and I love exploring new places around our area. ​

Mason Felker - Second Grade

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Received my degree from Grand Valley State University for Elementary Education and English Language Arts. Previously taught Kindergarten at OMPS.
Why Teach?
Ever since I was young, I knew that I wanted to be a teacher. My goal is to create a space where children feel safe, accepted and challenged. I aim to instill a passion to learn in all of my students while helping them grow into kind, successful individuals.
What excites you about omps?
I have loved every bit of Kindergarten but I am excited to start a new adventure in 2nd grade!
interests/hobbies
Aside from teaching, I enjoy boating, crafting, baking and trying new things!

Alexis Byrne - Second Grade Long Term Sub

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I graduated from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis with a bachelors degree in Elementary Education. I have taught two years of third grade and two years of second grade in Greenwood, IN. ​
Why Teach?
I knew from a young age that I wanted to be teacher when I grew up. I love building strong relationships with all my students and watching them grow throughout the school year. Teaching is very rewarding! 
What excites you about omps?
I am super excited for my big move to Michigan and OMPS! I look forward to working with the amazing staff and getting to know the students and families at OMPS. ​
interests/hobbies
In my free time I love reading, baking tasty treats, and going on hikes with my dog, Moose! ​

Natalie Platt - Second Grade

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I went to Augsburg College and graduated with my Bachelors in Elementary Education.I received my degree from Hope College with a major in Elementary Education and a minor in Early Childhood.
Why Teach?
I have always wanted to become a teacher since I was young. I love getting to know each student and what makes them unique. I also love to watch each child grow and celebrate them along the way! I'm thrilled for the opportunity to join this amazing team at OMPS! ​
What excites you about omps?
Old Mission stands out to me for its strong community support system. I cannot wait to join the OMPS family and work alongside some incredible people. I look forward to meeting my second graders and their families! ​
interests/hobbies
I love to stay active, be outdoors, and spend time with my puppy Otis. Family is also very important to me. I love exploring new places, watching the sunset, and being on the lake. ​

Molly Johnson - Third​ Grade

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Grew up in Rochester Hills, MI. I studied Elementary Education at Michigan State University
Why Teach?
Teaching is my passion because growing up, I have always looked up to my own teachers as role models. I want to help kids learn and grow, and to remind them every day that they have the potential to achieve anything they set their minds to. ​
What excites you about omps?
OMPS excites me because of the caring and passionate environment. Every staff member has the same mindset of putting students first. I am so excited to see all the great opportunity and growth this year has to offer.
interests/hobbies
I love to be by the lake! My favorite summer hobby is paddle boarding. I also love to snowboard in the winter.

Kay Harris - Third Grade

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I am a life-long learner and  four-time Central Michigan University graduate. I have my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a major in Language Arts. I followed that with a Master of Arts in Reading. In the last ten years I have earned a Specialists in Education and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. My focus has always been literacy and I look forward to sharing my knowledge and experiences with OMPS students.
Why Teach?
I love the way education serves as a window providing a glimpse into all the world has to offer. I have dedicated my life to teaching literacy because I believe in order to be  successful, a person must be able to communicate and advocate for him or herself. With that said, I have taught literacy skills to elementary, middle school students as well as a Literacy Professor teaching beginning and practicing teachers how to teach literacy skills. 
What excites you about omps?
I am very excited to be teaching third grade at OMPS this year. I have always loved working with children and cannot wait to get to know everyone. I believe OMPS offers a wonderful opportunity to create a safe and supportive learning community where students, parents and teachers work together to help our students grow to meet their full potential. Being a part of a team in such a beautiful setting is a real gift.
interests/hobbies
I am a very creative and adventurous person. I love to travel and have had the opportunity to travel the world from Australia and New Zealand to the British Isles, Italy and every country in between. I also  love to hike and explore new places, including armchair travel on wintery days when I am at home watching the snow fall. I  love gardening and enjoy taking care of my perennial gardens. I am learning to play the piano and hope to start painting, drawing and sewing. So much to do and so little time. It may take a life-time to fit it all in!

Molly Norton - Fourth Grade

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I was born and raised in Columbia, Maryland. I graduated from Salisbury University where I obtained my degree in Elementary Education. Right out of college, I secured a full time substitute teaching position at Courtade Elementary School where I worked with students from K-5.
Why Teach?
Need WHY TEACH
What excites you about omps?
I am so honored to begin my teaching career at OMPS. Something that I am looking forward to this school year is getting to know all my students and their families. I am over the moon to be working with an exceptional staff that are all as optimistic and enthusiastic about teaching as I am.
interests/hobbies
Being new to Michigan, I love to explore some of the surrounding towns to take in incredible sceneries! Family and friends are important to me so I enjoy spending time with them. I love to cheer on the Philadelphia Eagles during football season. I am also a big fan of crocheting and reading a good book. You can often find me humming along to a latest country music hit or popular Disney song.

 Tracy LaFoille - Fifth Grade

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Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with minors in English and Social Studies from Lake Superior State University. I also have a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis in math instruction from the College of William & Mary.
Why Teach?
I feel that teaching is my calling and my passion. I love when a student finally grasps a concept and masters a skill. I love watching them grow academically and as a well rounded member of our learning community.
​
What excites you about omps?
I am so happy to be back in Michigan, and excited to teach at Old Mission Peninsula School. I look forward to meeting my first graders and their families. I can wait to use my training to teach reading and math as well as the other core subjects.
interests/hobbies
My hobbies include: Traveling with my husband. In the past five years we have visited Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon, Mexico and Hawaii. I love to read and try to read a book a week. We have also taken up Kayaking. The rivers have become my new happy place. I also enjoy spending time with our four grown children, four grandchildren and our extended family.​

Katie Kellogg - Fifth Grade

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I have degrees in Music and Elementary Education from Alma College with a minor in English. I have a Master of Arts in Music from Ball State University where I also did doctoral studies in Music.
Why Teach?
I teach because I love learning and I think it is one of the most important things we can do our entire lives! I love helping young people become lifelong learners, too.
​
What excites you about omps?
I am excited about the family atmosphere, the amazing campus location, and all of the great opportunities that OMPS provides.
interests/hobbies
I love music, reading, knitting, traveling, and being outdoors--especially in beautiful Northern Michigan!

Kathleen Hoagg - Art Teacher

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BFA  Painting College for Creative Studies, Detroit, MI.  MAT Maryland Institute College of Art, Baltimore, MD.  Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, Deer Isle, ME.
​Why Teach?
I’ve always enjoyed and been interested in children. They’re funny, spontaneous, curious, authentic and perplexing. Art can be magic, thrilling, and at times daunting and intimidating. I cannot think of a better way to engage with, learn about and support children through all of this self-discovery and learning about our world than through the arts. And through it all I grow as a person and an artist.
What excites you about omps?
I can’t wait to settle in, get to know the staff and children, and see what interesting and exciting things we come up with to do together!
interests/hobbies
I can find it hard to be inside on a beautiful day and enjoy outdoor activities in every season! I’ve been an organic gardener for years and have chickens too. I also really like to cook. I love reading and learning about all kinds of things, but especially the arts and sciences. I treasure time with my family and friends as well as the  solitary time in my studio.

Hannah O'Brien - Music Teacher

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 I am a Traverse City native.  I attended Central Michigan University and received my Bachelor's of Science in Education.    
why teach?
Children are the world's future.  It is a privilege to have a small impact on their lives as they grow and develop.  Music is a passion that children can take with them through the rest of their lives.  Music is also a creative outlet where students can learn the reward of patience and perseverance.  ​
what excites you about omps?
I am very excited to be a part of the OMPS team!  It is so encouraging to see the amazing administration and staff excited to teach and learn alongside their students.  The beautiful Northern Michigan backdrop allows for teaching to expand beyond the walls of the school and encourages a lifelong love of learning. ​
interest/hobbies
I My husband and I enjoy all things music! You can find us at one of his band's shows, hiking or visiting the Upper Peninsula in the summertime.  We love playing piano, guitar and singing together on Sundays at our church.  We welcomed a baby boy this past June! ​

Jennifer Kloosterman - Physical Education

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Graduated from Hope College with a Major in Mathematics and Minor in Physical Education.
Why Teach?
 I have always loved working with kids. Teaching seemed like the natural fit when I knew I could influence kids in a positive way and help them learn to love math and be physically active all at the same time. This is my 20th year in education and I am so excited to be beginning a new adventure at OMPS!
What excites you about omps?
I have heard such great things about this school and the families that attend here. I love OMPS's mission and what the school community stands for. I believe academic success along side of social, emotional and character growth is crucial to our children's overall success today.  It's also really cool that my husband went to school at Old Mission back in the late 1980s! He said he never would have thought his wife would be teaching at his elementary school!
interests/hobbies
We are a very active family! We love everything that the water has to offer - boating, skiing, tubing, SUP, fishing etc. We spend many weekends as a family on our boat at Mackinac Island. We also love the frozen water as all three of our kids (Kelvin 8th grade, Kallie 6th grade, Kelsey 3rd grade) play hockey which keeps us very busy. When I am not watching our kids do the things they love, I enjoy reading and doing puzzles, and helping my husband with his lawncare/landscape business. ​

Jill Murphy - School Counselor

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I received my Bachelor's Degree from Central Michigan University and Masters in Counseling from University of La Verne in California. I have 25 years experience in several different school districts, in various capacities. I have also been a Substitute Teacher, Early Childhood Education Director and developer of preschools, home visitor, parent educator, infant mental health consultant, and counselor of students of all ages. I also have a private counseling practice in Traverse City, where I have mostly an adult client-base.
What excites you about omps?
I am excited about the small school family feel of OMPS.  I have been in many schools over my career and feel there is something special about this place!  I am excited to meet the students and staff of OMPS and see how I might offer added support to an already amazing community.  I lived out here on the peninsula about 22 years ago, so in a sense it feels like coming full circle in my life/career. ​
interests/hobbies
 I enjoy spending time with friends and family, traveling to new places, and most recently one of my #1 favorite things is spending time with my new, amazing grandson!  I also like reading, listening to music and running – this summer I accomplished a long -time goal by participating in the 8 Mile Mackinaw Island Run.

Jennifer Byland - Special Education

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I graduated from Hope College in 1998 with a BA in Learning Disabilities and I earned my Master's Degree in Emotional Impairments from Grand Valley State University in 2006.
Why Teach?
I come from a family of educators and teaching has always been my passion.   I have been so fortunate to have been in many different positions over the years.  As our family has transitioned to new places, I have been able to try out new assignments.  Each time I enter a new position, I am exposed to new ideas and amazing staff that creatively construct magnificent classrooms.  I love supporting teachers in any way I can to help our students become engaged in the learning process and self-driven in their goals and ambitions.  Even as a "stay-at-home" mom, I was always volunteering to help with various children's programs.  I love working with children of all ages. ​
What excites you about omps?
I am looking forward to meeting new staff members, students, and families.  I am thrilled to be teaching special education again and so excited to be working at OMPS!  
interests/hobbies
I love to read.  I also enjoy being outside at the beach or in the woods, running, hiking, biking, boating, and camping with our family. ​

Liz Hague​ - Library Media Para Pro

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I graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and I obtained a Master’s Degree with a Master in the Art of Teaching focusing on Reading and Literacy from Mary Grove College. I taught second grade for two years in southwest Florida. In 2008, I moved up to Michigan after marrying my husband and taught third grade for six years in Oxford, Michigan. ​​
Why Teach?
Ever since the third grade I have wanted to become a teacher. My main goal as an educator is for students to be excited to come to school and have fun learning! I want to instill the value of being a life-long learner and serving others.​
What excites you about omps?
​
interests/hobbies
 I love to be outside in all seasons either running, hiking, walking my pups, snow skiing and boating. I also love to be with my family!​

Isaiah Moger - School Aide

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​Masters Physician Assistant Studies, GVSU 2021
Bachelors English/Philosophy, WMU 2006
Why Teach?
​Working at OMPS is a great opportunity to connect with our community in a meaningful way.  As a father of two students, I'm particularly invested in the development and well-being of our local grade schoolers!
What excites you about omps?
Excited to be part of a team so invested in the development and success of our students.  I have been nothing but impressed with OMPS staff, and enjoy being able to support the team.
interests/hobbies
​Kayaking, Hiking, Travel, SCUBA, Gardening 

Becky Seah - School Aide

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​Textiles and Apparel Studies with emphasis in Design WMU 2000
What excites you about OMPS?
​I have played many roles with OMPS from parent to PTO to School Board and now working in the school. Just so proud of the school and how far we come, it is an honor to work for this school and with all the amazing Crew!
Intrests/Hobbies?
I love spending time with my husband and kids. Love going on hikes and bicycle rides. My current hobbies are quilting, rug making and sewing anything I can.

Rob McTaggart - School Aide

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- Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a minor in Public Health from               Central Michigan University
-  Master of Arts Degree in Counselor Education & Personal Development from Central Michigan University
What excites you about OMPS
To make even a small difference in the life of a young student is a privilege. I am excited about the family atmosphere and the emphasis on outdoor learning at OMPS.
intrests/hobbies?
Spending time among the Great Lakes, attending concerts, and heading to           Mt. Pleasant for CMU athletics, especially basketball.

Dave Rybka - Facilities Manager

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Associates in Science, Pasco-Hernando State College
what excites you about omps?
As a member of the Old Mission community and a parent of a child who attends OMPS, I am excited to be apart of the continued tradition of having a school on the peninsula. I am looking forward to working with the members of the community and the staff to keep this school up and running and a gem of the community. 
interests/hobbies
 I love spending time with my family being outdoors, playing board games and just having quality time together. We love skiing in the winter and hanging on the beach and boating on West Bay  all summer. We are very fortunate to live in an area that offers so much to explore!

Theresa Corcoran - Head Chef

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I have a BFA from Michigan State University. I’ve worked at newspapers, advertising agency’s, and magazines.
what excites you about omps?
I was offered the unique opportunity to start a food program at OMPS that would be like nothing that exists in our area. Environmental friendly, healthy food, creative freedom to serve a diverse menu. A chance to change the negative impression of “Hot Lunch”, and working with a Staff and Board Members who have the same philosophy
Interests/Hobbies
I love skiing, bike riding, swimming in cold water, researching recipes, and conversing with the fascinating little people called...”your children”​

LOCATION

2699 Island View Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686

HOURS

MONDAY - FRIDAY
8:15am - 3:20pm
Half Days 8:15am - 11:40am

CONTACT US

Phone: (231) 252-0225
​Email: Info@OMPSchool.org

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