Hello! My name is Mark Battista. I’ve been a teacher at DMPS since 2007 teaching both 4th and 5th grade. I have received a bachelor and master’s degree from Drake University. I reside in Urbandale with my fiancé, Erica and our dog, Bocce. In my free time I enjoy golfing, playing hockey, and cheering for my Minnesota sports teams.
Hi! I am Shannon Groth and I have been a part of this dedicated Samuelson staff since 2006. I have taught in the Des Moines Public School district since 1992. I graduated from Iowa State University in 1990 with a Bachelors Degree in elementary education. I received my masters in education from Graceland in 2010. In my free time I love traveling, reading, and spending time with my family. Teaching, as a profession, is something I have been doing since 1990 and I can not imagine anything else I would rather be doing.
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.