The Heart of Our Schools: Honoring Richfield Educators

As we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week, we pause to honor the extraordinary educators who make Richfield Public Schools a place where students—and staff—thrive. Each teacher in our district brings a unique perspective, a passion for learning, and a deep commitment to equity, community, and student success. Whether they work inside or outside the classroom, their impact is the heart of our district.

Our Teachers Love Their Students—And Each Other

Again and again, our educators share how much they value working with Richfield students. “Our students are the best!” says Miriam Bungert, a third-year teacher at Richfield High School. “They regularly greet me, ask how I’m doing, and even about my weekend. They are the sweetest.” Jana Rhoden, a teacher of 22 years, agrees: “Richfield High School has some of the best students in the world.”

At Sheridan Hills, Nichol Kamholz, the art specialist for 12 years, echoes that sentiment: “Spending time with our amazing students and feeling part of a family with the staff here—it’s what I love most.” Sarah Olson agrees, saying the best part of her job is “being with the students! They keep each day exciting and different.”

Jenelle Bullen, Early Learning Coordinator at the Central Education Center, highlights the impact of educators themselves: “The best part of my job is building up teacher leaders,” she says, “and seeing all the amazing little things they do for children and families, and acknowledging their hard work.”

Special education coach Shannon Ritt, who supports staff and students across the district, adds: “We have so many gifted staff members who bring truly amazing experiences to our students.”

Creating Real-World Learning and Lasting Impact

Many of our teachers say their greatest joy comes from preparing students for life beyond school. Nate Edwards, Work-Based Learning teacher at Richfield High School, puts it simply: “I love preparing students for ‘real-life’ experiences. From learning how to complete a job application, practicing interview techniques, and writing professional emails, I feel like what I teach will immediately prepare students for life after high school.”

Alexis Setzer, a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher, shares a similar passion for teaching practical life skills. “Family and Consumer Sciences isn't just ‘home economics’ or ‘cooking and sewing.’ It empowers students with essential knowledge and skills for life after high school. From human development, nutrition and cooking, textile and apparel, housing, or career readiness—these courses help students make informed decisions, build healthy relationships, and make meaningful contributions to their families, communities, and workplaces.”

Alicia Vaca Alonso, Dual Language Social Studies teacher at Richfield High School, highlights the deeper values embedded in her curriculum. “Social studies education isn’t just about dates and events; it’s about building democratic values, developing critical thinking, understanding our roots, and learning to connect with the world through empathy and integrity,” she explains. “In an age obsessed with productivity, instant gratification, and individualism, teaching students to think deeply, and to value memory, community, identity, and justice, is a necessary act.”

Every Day Looks Different—and That’s a Good Thing

No two days are alike, and our teachers embrace the variety with enthusiasm. Erin Huber, who supports educators across the district as a peer reviewer and new teacher mentor, enjoys the constant change. “Some days I can be in up to five buildings. I get to see how our incredible staff come together to create a positive community for our students.”

Lindsey Larson, a middle school center-based Special Education teacher, thrives in a dynamic environment. “I teach a different subject every class period. Much of my day is spent problem solving. This can be exhausting, but I am constantly learning and growing.”

Greg VonRuden, a veteran Science teacher at Richfield Middle School with 28 years of experience, sums it up well: “A typical day is hectic but rewarding.” Molly Taylor, PE teacher at Sheridan Hills, calls it “controlled chaos,” while Centennial first-grade teacher Mackenzie Moen-VonAhnen adds, “No day is ever the same! Like all educators, we always have to be ready to change any plans on a whim.”

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Are Part of Our DNA

Equity isn’t a program in Richfield—it’s a mindset that guides everything we do. “I appreciate the open-mindedness and integrity of this district, especially in regards to DEI,” says Patricia McDougall, a teacher at Richfield Middle School. Erin Huber agrees: “I love that we are equity focused and support ALL students' success.”

Theresa Halpern also values the district’s approach: “I love the supportive nature of our district and the emphasis on equity. Many of the people I've worked with over the years have become lifelong friends.”

For Alicia Vaca Alonso, a dual language social studies teacher, equity is deeply embedded in the culture. “This is a district where equity and diversity are not buzzwords—they are part of the culture. I feel proud to work in a place where student voices matter and where the entire educational community works together in service of the community itself.”

She adds, “What I love most about my job is helping students become critical thinkers in a world filled with misinformation and oversimplification. In Richfield, equity and diversity are not buzzwords—they are part of the culture.”

Rebecca Arredondo, a dual-language literature teacher, echoes this commitment to meaningful, inclusive learning. “I love teaching literature that engages students. It’s amazing watching them use their bilingual skills in meaningful ways.”

From First-Year to Retirement—A Lifelong Commitment to Education

At Richfield Public Schools, teaching is more than a job—it’s a calling that spans decades and inspires generations.

Some, like Theresa Halpern, are wrapping up a long and meaningful career. After 24 years at Sheridan Hills—and more in North Dakota—she reflects on the depth of the profession: “We are educators, caregivers, psychologists, facilitators, encouragers, problem solvers... all while orchestrating behaviors and interruptions as seamlessly as possible.”

Others are just beginning their journeys. Angie Zielinski, a first-year preschool teacher at the Central Education Center, shares: “Preschool teachers cram a lot into a short time! Science, social studies, music, phy ed, math, literacy, art, snack… most if not all of it is done through play-based activities and FUN!”

Alexis Setzer, in her second year as a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher, says: “I appreciate being part of RPS because of its supportive and welcoming environment. Everyone is genuinely invested in helping each other grow and succeed in the field of education.”

Third-year teacher Miriam Bungert agrees: “I appreciate the professionalism of our staff. I trust that everyone is doing their best, cares for our students, and is doing the best they can to lift them up.”

Early Learning teacher Lorinda Losier highlights the foundational role of educators in students’ lives: “We have many roles to fill such as teacher, nurse, therapist and friend. The most important role is creating positive relationships with our students, which builds the foundation to school success. We start in Early Learning to help foster the joy of learning for future years!"

A Community That Cares

Whether it’s conducting ECSE evaluations, teaching middle school reasoning skills, or exploring photography techniques, every teacher in Richfield has a story rooted in connection, creativity, and compassion.

Tanya Olson, part of the Early Childhood team, captures this spirit: “Even on the hard days, my team knows how to find the bright spots—and sometimes even laugh through the chaos—which makes all the difference.”

“There is an abundance of caring, wonderful people here,” shares Ani Cassellius, an Art teacher at Richfield High School. She recently collaborated with the Art teacher at Richfield Middle School and appreciated the chance to observe a class. “I was grateful to have deeper conversation about systems of education with another professional,” she explains, adding that the experience helped align curriculum across grade levels.

“The folks who work here are awesome, and I feel cared about,” says high school teacher Matthew Caruso. At the middle school, photography teacher Melvin Willis adds, “I enjoy working in an environment where I can be myself while encouraging students. This is a district where I can be myself completely with comfortability.”

LeJeune Miller, a teacher at Sheridan Hills, emphasizes the value of representation and solidarity: “Connecting with other BIPOC educators is something I love about working in Richfield Public Schools.”

Visiting teacher Maria Guadalupe Leonor Ramirez Fuentes from Richfield Dual Language School also highlights the power of collaboration: “I am passionate about teaching. I have learned lots from my colleagues. They have taught me about teaching in the USA.”

Christine Clay at Richfield Middle School praises her colleagues, saying, “The admin team is top notch and so is the special education support team!” Fellow RMS teacher Hailey Karlovich agrees: “The community here is great—the staff community is very supportive and friendly, the families have welcomed me, and the students have a lot of fun personality.”

Celebrating the Heart of Richfield: Our Teachers

From first-year educators to seasoned veterans, from preschool classrooms to high school labs, Richfield teachers bring passion, resilience, and deep care to their work every single day. They create real-world learning opportunities, foster inclusive and equitable classrooms, and build lasting relationships that shape lives far beyond school walls.

Their stories reflect a vibrant, dedicated community—one where every student is seen, valued, and supported. Whether navigating daily challenges, sharing laughter with colleagues, or mentoring the next generation of educators, our teachers are the heart of Richfield Public Schools.

This Teacher Appreciation Week, we honor and thank each of them—not just for what they do, but for who they are. Because in Richfield, teaching isn’t just a job. It’s a calling, a commitment, and a community.