Hi!  My name is Kaitlin Clough and I am thrilled to be teaching 1st grade at Samuelson Elementary!  I grew up in Fort Dodge, Iowa and then attended Iowa State University for my undergraduate degree.  In May of 2017 I graduated from Drake University with a Masters of Science in Education degree.  I previously taught 2nd and 1st grades for the Marion Independent District, before moving to Des Moines where I live with my husband Ben and our dog, Ginny.  I love to spend time with my family and friends, bake, watch movies, and go out to eat at new restaurants!  I love working with children and helping them grow emotionally and academically, so please know that I look forward to coming to work each day to help them do exactly that!

Hello! My name is Diane Conzemius. I have been teaching at Samuelson for six years. I graduated from Upper Iowa with a BA in Elementary Education and endorsements in early childhood and reading.  I also, have a Master’s in Differentiated Instruction from Graceland University.

I live in Ames with my husband Roger and my dog Daisy. We have seven grown children and eight grandkids.  I love spending time with my family, gardening and teaching the students of Samuelson!

My name is Kim Hofbauer.  I am proud to be a 1st grade teacher here at Samuelson.  I have been teaching first graders for over 20 years.  It’s been a joyous career that I truly love.  I hope to inspire my students to find excitement as they begin their journey of learning. I have 2 boys, Christian and Elijah. Christian is a senior at Iowa and Elijah is a sophmore at Waukee High School.  I enjoy cooking, bargain shopping, farmer’s markets, reading biographies and walking my dog, Marley.  I look forward to making positive connections with my students and their families.

My name is Denie Rew.  I am so honored and proud to be a member of the Samuelson community!  I have been a teacher with Des Moines Public Schools since 2003.  During my career I have worked in preschool, home intervention, and classroom.  I received my teaching degree from Iowa State University (Go Cyclones!!) in the areas of Early Childhood Education and Special Education, and I am currently earning my reading specialist endorsement.  I am always excited for new learning opportunities and growing as a teacher.

I currently reside in Urbandale with my AMAZING family!  My family includes my husband Jason, my daughter Dennan, my son Dayne, and our sweet pug, J.T.  Our family loves going camping, playing sports, and watching our beloved Cyclones.

My goal is to always provide a fun, caring, and positive learning environment for every child that enters my classroom!