Classrooms
Hello! My name is Jennifer Butz. I have been teaching in Des Moines since 2008. I earned my undergraduate degree from The University of Iowa in 1999 and my graduate degree from The University of Oklahoma in 2004. I taught 1st and 2nd grade in North Carolina for two years, 1st/2nd grade Multiage in Mannheim, Germany for five years, for the first four years in Des Moines I taught 3rd grade and have taught 5th grade for the past ten years. I’m so excited to be a part of Samuelson’s staff as this is where I began my educational path as a kindergartener! I look forward to instilling a love of learning in children, and challenging them to read, read, read! I love teaching because of those “AH-HA” moments, and when students make a connection to the real world while in a lesson. I look forward to being a part of each child’s educational path!
My name is Lisa Weatherall and I am a third grade teacher here at Samuelson. I grew up in St. Marys, Iowa and went to Martensdale St. Marys School. After graduating high school, I attended Iowa State University and earned my degree in elementary education. I attended Graceland University to earn my master’s degree. My husband and I have 3 wonderful children and one very sweet dog.
Hello! My name is Rachel Venard-Konchalski. I am so proud to be part of Samuelson Elementary. I have been a teacher with Des Moines Public Schools since 2008. I have been a substitute teacher, ELL teacher, and a 4th grade teacher. I received my teaching degree from Upper Iowa University in Elementary with Endorsements in English/ Language Arts, ESL/ELL, Reading, Social Studies, and Middle School Education. I enjoy learning about history, reading, and spending time with my pets. I am looking forward to another fantastic school year.
Hello! My name is McKenzie Larson. I am grateful to have been teaching at Samuelson since 2019. I have been teaching Kindergarten the whole time being here which I couldn’t be happier about! I love seeing these little ones learn and grow throughout the year! I can’t wait for a year full of learning, fun and lots of laughs!
I graduated from Iowa State University with an Elementary Education degree. I am currently getting my master’s from Drake University in Culturally Responsive Teaching! When I’m away from school I love cheering on the Cyclones and the St. Louis Cardinals and spending time with my friends and family!
Hello Sam Fam! I’m William Morris and I have had the pleasure of teaching at Samuelson for 6 years now. The staff and students here would make anyone proud to be a Husky Pup! When I ‘m not teaching, I am hanging out with my family. My wife Jana is a teacher for Des Moines as well. Together we have two middle schoolers, Erin and Ryan. When I’m not at Samuelson teaching, you can find me at my kid’s extracurricular activities, traveling, playing with Daisy our golden doodle, or catching a baseball game, GO RED SOX!
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Hello! My name is Amy Wiegmann and I am the Associate Principal at Samuelson. This will be my 7th year at Samuelson and I have thoroughly enjoyed working with all of the students and families over the years! I have been with Des Moines Public Schools for 31 years. A little bit about myself: I have a husband named Jake, three sons and four grandchildren. I have a dog named Duke. I love to work in my flower gardens and watch my koi fish in the pond. If you ever need anything, just reach out. I am here for you!