• B.S., Psychology, Anderson University

Mrs. Baker is a Behavioral Specialist at Midwest Academy. She received her bachelor’s of Psychology from Anderson University where she spent time researching and presenting on mental health stigmas. Chelsea has two years of experience in ABA therapy, working both in and out of schools. At Midwest, you will often see her working with students, in aftercare, at recess, and leading various clubs. In her spare time, she enjoys baking and decorating cakes.

• B.A. English, Western Michigan University

Stacia teaches middle school English classes, English Lab, and English 9. She taught Middle School Language Arts and worked as a Support Teacher in Upper Elementary in a North Carolina Montessori school before moving to Indiana. Stacia received her B.A. in English (Practical Writing), from Western Michigan University. She has also worked with English as a New Language students and taught homeschool cooperative high school English composition classes. Some of her other experience includes university Writing Center tutoring, marketing for an organic family farm, and working as a technical writer. She hopes to bring her varied experiences to the classroom and create a safe, challenging, and inspiring environment for the incredible students at Midwest Academy. Education is the primary means of discovering one’s unique path in this world, and she is excited to join students on the journey.

• M.S., Elementary Education, IUPUI
• B.S., Elementary/Early Childhood Education, Indiana University

Judy teaches Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Trigonometry, Probability/Statistics and Precalculus. She enjoys teaching math and wants students to know that math doesn’t have to be as scary as they think. She has experience teaching math in Florida and Massachusetts. She also taught with the Department of Defense Schools in Germany and England. Judy’s favorite quote by Robert Frost: “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” She enjoys reading, traveling, getting together with friends, sewing, and cross-stitch.

• B.S., Elementary Education, Ball State University

I have been an elementary teacher for over 30 years working most often with 3rd graders and kindergarteners. My teaching degrees came from Ball State University although real life experience has supplied most of my education. My husband and I have raised our two children here and are so thankful for this school. We just cherish the opportunities it has given so many students – including our grandson.
I enjoy gardening and crafts but most especially my five grandchildren.

My philosophy is that learning can be fun and we can all work as a team to support these children.

• B.A., Social Studies Education, Purdue University

Katie has worked with children with learning differences since she graduated from Purdue. Midwest is a second home to Katie; the staff and students are family to her. She is here because of the kids who she finds simply amazing, including her own son. In addition to helping families find a place at Midwest, Katie teaches Government and Economics to our high school students. Her favorite quote: “Do not train children to learn by force and harshness, but direct them to it by what amuses their minds so that you may be able to discover with accuracy the peculiar bent of the genius of each.” She enjoys photography, loves history, and is a die-hard Notre Dame football fan.

Sarah is entering the workforce after running an in home daycare for 13 years. She has been at home with her 4 children over the past 24 years. Her son, Simon, is entering his 4th year here at Midwest Academy. Sarah enjoys being in nature, time with her family, making art in a variety of mediums (painting, photography, pottery, creative writing, dance). She feels passionate about the environment, food as medicine and Kindness. Sarah is our new Office Administrator at the front desk.

• BA Education and History, Hobart/William Smith Colleges
• M.Ed., Early Childhood Education, Lesley University

Jane joined the staff officially in the Fall of 2017.  Yet, she is no stranger to the benefits of Midwest community as it has been a part of her family for the past 8 years. As a parent of a child with learning differences, she appreciates the progressive education, caring environment, and differential learning practices that encompass the Midwest educational experience. Jane has a passion for serving others in the community. She brings 25 years of administrating and teaching in a variety of educational settings. At Midwest, she is involved in coordinating service learning opportunities, overseeing the BOOST program for students needing extra support, and assisting with admissions testing. She enjoys cooking, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.

• B.S., Psychology, Springfield College
• M.Ed., Elementary Education, Lesley University
• Certificate in Fundraising Management, IU School of Philanthropy
• Certificate in Non-Profit Business Management, IU Kelley School of Business
• M.A., Exercise Sports Science/Administration, University of North Carolina

As the Head of School and also a parent of a child with learning differences, Kevin focuses on keeping the child at the center of everything we do. His passion is to provide a progressive education for kids with learning differences since he has seen the tremendous difference that it makes in their lives. After being drawn to these complex learners as a teacher over 25 years ago, he believes that progressive education fits with their unique stages of development. Kevin joined Midwest in 2010 and provided leadership in the areas of Counseling, Transition Planning, and Curriculum Development. He then focused on relocation and growth of the school in 2012. As Head of School since 2013, Kevin has focused on strengthening our mission, staff development, and student programming. At school, you will find him interacting with students on a day-to-day basis, developing teachers, and leading staff to achieve Midwest's strategic goals. He enjoys coaching soccer, tinkering with tools, reading books, kayaking, hiking, and fly fishing.

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<div>B.A. Criminal Justice, Sociology - Indiana University</div>
<div>M.S.Ed Elementary Education - IUPUI</div>
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<div>Mrs. Grinnell is very excited to be joining Midwest Academy this year. Everything about the school aligns with her personal teaching philosophy and she is looking forward to being part of the MWA community. She spent the past year at Woodbrook Elementary to be close to her son and more available for her daughter, but she really missed working with middle schoolers. Mrs. Grinnell previously taught seventh grade science at Westlane and Eastwood Middle Schools, where she was also science Department Chair. Before that, she taught seventh grade English at Franklin Township Middle School West.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>Mrs. Grinnell loves teaching science because it helps children question their world and learn how to be thinkers; and it's fun! She also enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, singing, traveling, and having adventures. She tries to live by the Maya Angelou quote: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."</div>
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• B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Interpersonal Relations
• M.S. in Counseling - in progress

This is my third year working at Midwest Academy on the counseling team. I received my bachelors degree in Psychology with a minor in interpersonal relations as well as human development at Ball State University. I am currently in my third year as a graduate student at Butler University in the school counseling program. I am currently developing and delivering a comprehensive guidance program with over 180 guidance lessons involving social and emotional work, practical life skills as well as careers and transitions. I chose to work at Midwest Academy to open my eyes to a unique school setting with an opportunity to learn more about individuals with learning differences and pursue my passion of addressing and fostering the social emotional needs of students.

• M.S., Education/Instructional Research, Purdue University
• M.Div., Theology, Christian Theological Seminary
• B.A., Radio/TV/Film, Oklahoma State University

Tom has been teaching many of our high school and dual credit courses, with a focus on preparing our students for college, for many years now. Some of his most popular courses include “History Rocks,” “NPR 101,” and “What’s Your Problem.” His background in instructional design and media, along with his natural skill at connecting with our students, has given him a knack for making classes engaging and relevant. Prior to his life as a teacher, he served as a minister/chaplain and as a radio personality. His son is an alumnus of Midwest. He enjoys attending concerts, playing guitar, and spending time with his wife and kids.

Ivy Tech State College, Associate Degree (Paralegal)

Amy Hartwig joined Midwest Academy in March 2020 as the Marketing and Development Director. Amy resides in Zionsville with her three boys and her dog Mosby.&nbsp; She is very active in her community with the Boys Girls Club, Zionsville Athletic Booster Club, Habitat for Humanity and various parent clubs.&nbsp; She loves being part of what her children enjoy.&nbsp; &nbsp;When she isn’t with her boys or working, you will find her reading a book, jogging and or volunteering in her community.&nbsp; This fall she is eager to cheer on her oldest son as he will be playing football for Purdue University. Boiler Up!

Her daily goal is to make the world a better place by helping others and empowering those around her.&nbsp; &nbsp;Amy is looking forward to meeting all of you at MWA real soon.

• B.S., Secondary Science Education, Indiana University

Chad has been with Midwest for over 20 years. As a key leader, Chad helps our kids work through social and academic issues, helps teachers with accommodations for students, and ensures a positive learning and social environment is maintained for our middle school students. Additionally, Chad teaches Ecology, Astronomy, Chemistry and Biology. He helps students explore and solve problems by applying science concepts in interactive projects and experiments. He leads our exciting Astronomy Nights throughout the school year. He enjoys camping, building models, and launching rockets.

• B.S., Mechanical Engineering Technology - Purdue University (2007)
• M.S., Engineering Technology Education - IUPUI (In Progress)

Bill is a Purdue trained engineer who spent six years working in the production and design field and 6 years in a management role. He was selected for a Woodrow Wilson Teaching Fellowship in 2014 and became an engineering and technology teacher. After making connections with students with learning differences, he discovered a passion for working with students who need a different approach to education and he joined the Midwest team. He is excited to help the Midwest technology program expand to serve our students’ needs and interests. Bill also enjoys reading non-fiction, especially books about engineering and music history.

• M.S., Education, Indiana Wesleyan University
• B.S., Humanities, Indiana University
• A.S., Early Childhood Education, Ivy Tech

Besides providing leadership to our high school, Becky teaches English to many of our high school students. Becky finds creative ways for students to interact with language arts in a way that entices them based on their interests. She is happy that teachers at Midwest have the freedom to do what is best for students. She wants to make a difference for students who have not been given an adequate chance to shine. She dedicates much of her non-teaching time to humanitarian missions to Uganda and Haiti. She does much volunteer work through Helping Hands and Hope Refuge Schools. She loves to read.

• Automotive Repair, Lincoln Technical Institute
• 8 National Certifications in Repair
• 100+ Training Certifications

Dave has enjoyed working with his hands since he was a kid. He spent 40+ years as a mechanic on all types of vehicles and construction equipment. He now works with students in the Maker Space on a limited volunteer basis, teaching them the design process, tool usage, safety, maintenance, and repair. He has enjoyed this transition to teaching the skills he has spent a lifetime developing. He also helps takes care of the school’s building maintenance as time allows. In his spare time, he volunteers at church, develops his woodworking skills, tinkers with electronics, and enjoys car restoration.

• B.S.M., Music Composition, Lincoln Christian College

Alicia fell in love with Midwest when she first joined several years ago to lead our music program, which includes daily music classes, choir, music theory and drama. Our school is always brimming full of excitement around our winter program and our theatre productions, as you see everyone participating in music, acting, and/or stage production. She has a true gift in encouraging our kids to try new things, uncover and grow hidden talents, and grow their confidence. Being a second-degree black belt, she has also introduced Taekwondo to our students as an afternoon elective to help grow their confidence. You can see the deep love she has for our students and in the work that she does. She likes classical and classic rock music. She enjoys painting with watercolors and collecting stamps.

I am so excited to be at my high school alma mater for my first year as a teacher! I graduated from the University of Indianapolis in May, 2020, majoring in elementary education and mild intervention. At Midwest Academy, I will be teaching Boost, helping with after care, and substituting. I’m extremely excited to be back and be a part of an amazing team! I know how being a student at Midwest made an impact on me and am looking forward to making an impact on our amazing students. I am the middle child of three, have a dog named Izzy, and I love to exercise, watch movies, and read in my spare time.

• B.S. Psychological Sciences, Ball State University

I work with the counseling team and the art teacher as an art therapy intern as well as a one on one with a student. I earned my B.S. in Psychological Sciences from Ball State University in 2018 and I am currently in my 2nd and last year as a student at IUPUI Herron School of Art for my M.A in Art Therapy. In my free time, I enjoy card making, painting, running, hiking, and visiting the beach. I have 8 siblings and am married to my high school boyfriend. I have a dog, Mia, and hopefully, we are adopting a new pup soon too! I chose to intern at MWA because I know that this school is changing lives and supporting students and staff in a way no other place does. I wanted to be apart of that and I am very thankful for this opportunity.

B.A., English and Public Relations, Purdue University

M.P.P.A., Nonprofit Organization Management and Leadership, University of Missouri-St. Louis

Certificate in Nonprofit Management and Leadership, University of Missouri-St. Louis

M.A., Mass Mediated Communication, University of Missouri-St. Louis

Lindsay Walls became a member of the Midwest Academy family in March 2020 as the Director of Advancement. Originally from Lafayette, she and her husband recently moved to Indianapolis to be closer to family. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading, cooking, going to concerts, and gathering with friends and family. Her favorite place for a weekend getaway is visiting her identical twin sister who is a school psychologist in Chicago. Lindsay is looking forward to getting to know her new school and community while making new friends along the way!

• B.A., Education, Spanish, Ball State University

Our students also know Lisa as “Seńora Zack,” our Spanish teacher. Midwest excites Lisa because we are always growing and changing to meet our students’ needs. She loves Midwest since she is able to teach through hands-on projects instead of rote methods requiring students to answer to a singular test. Often, you may see her cooking ethnic foods in the kitchen with our students. Not only does she teach Spanish, but Lisa also helps lead the Optimist Club and the Student Council for Midwest. She serves as a chairperson for the Indiana District Optimists, and she sits on the Board for the Fishers Optimist Club. She is the proud grandparent of three grandchildren. She enjoys playing golf, swimming, cooking, dancing, reading, and learning to play the piano.