Faculty and Staff Directory

Cortney Pearce

Mrs. Pearce always knew she wanted to be a teacher. She loves to see the wonder in the eyes of the children, the gears turning as they experience new things, and the excitement on their faces when they understand something for the first time or at a deeper level. Mrs. Pearce is the mother of two Academy alums and her youngest is a student at the Academy. “The Academy has been a blessing. When deciding to come back to work after staying home with my children, there is no place that I would rather be a teacher! I love that work feels like a family.”

In her free time, she enjoys being with her family, reading, searching for new ideas to implement and of course cheering on her kiddos in the various sports that they love!

Samantha Weiss

I began my journey at the Academy in 2011 through the Late Dismissal program, where I quickly fell in love with the school and its community. After graduating from Lindenwood University with a degree in elementary education, I returned to the Academy as a substitute teacher and later served as the Kaleidoscope teacher for K–4 and as a Pre-Primary Assistant. I was fortunate to launch the Little Acorns program and after four years, I transitioned to the Pre-Primary program. I feel truly passionate about teaching our littlest learners—I love their curiosity, excitement, and the incredible growth I see in them throughout the year. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, traveling and reading.

Missy Kaemmerlen

Mrs. Kaemmerlen is a lifelong member of the Sacred Heart community—as an alumna of Villa Duchesne, a dedicated Academy educator, and the mother of three Academy graduates. Her deep connection to the Sacred Heart mission is at the heart of her teaching. She creates a nurturing, inclusive classroom environment where every student is encouraged to be their authentic self and grow academically, behaviorally, and spiritually.

Mrs. Kaemmerlen holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Kansas and has taught Primary, First, and Second Class at the Academy. She has a passion for professional growth and regularly attends workshops and seminars focused on differentiation and whole-child education. She thoughtfully integrates what she learns into her classroom, offering meaningful activities that reflect the unique strengths and evolving interests of her students.

Known for her strong rapport with students, Mrs. Kaemmerlen sees each child as part of her extended classroom family. She takes joy in celebrating their successes and supporting them through challenges.

Outside of school, Mrs. Kaemmerlen enjoys spending time with her family. She loves relaxing at the beach, working in her garden, and exploring for gems and fossils on family vacations -- a favorite hobby that blends her love for nature and learning.

Mary Furay

Miss Furay has been teaching since 2003, and loves guiding middle schoolers as they discover how history and theology shape who we are today. "The five Goals of the Sacred Heart inspire my classroom, where students aim high, stay organized, grow in faith, and learn to see themselves as the face with which Jesus walks this earth."

Nagehan Hill

While he was at a university in Istanbul, my father lived through the 1980 Turkish coup d’état, a time of turmoil that disrupted lives, including his own education. He was the first person in his family to attend university, but he couldn’t immediately finish his studies -- not because he lacked ambition or intellect, but because history stood in the way. He used his experiences to teach me that hardships cannot silence the power of an educated mind, education is a privilege, a tool for service, and a way to lift others up.

Teaching is an act of faith in shaping a future we may never witness in our lifetime. It is the belief that we must nurture each student’s unique gifts and talents. It is built on the quiet thrill of knowing that a single book or lesson can positively alter the course of a young person’s life.

Our lives, no matter how ordinary they may seem, are part of something larger. Teaching literature instills in our students the understanding that they are not alone. Others have wrestled with the same doubts, dreams, and longing for meaning. And what greater privilege is there than for me to once again teach literature and writing at the Academy of the Sacred Heart?

I am honored to return to the Academy to follow in the footsteps of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne. I look forward to inspiring students in meaningful ways, rekindling connections with my talented colleagues, and contributing to the continued excellence of this institution that has already given me and my family so much.

Megan Horner

Mrs. Horner grew up in a family that put a high priority on education. Like many teachers, she knew from an early age that she wanted to teach. Coming to the Academy as a student made her dream crystal clear. Not only did she want to be a teacher, but she wanted to teach at the Academy.

“I knew from an early age that this was a special place. I may not have been able to verbalize it at the age of eight, but I felt the emphasis on the education of the whole child. I knew that we, the students, were not only held to a high academic standard, but we were loved, valued and respected by our teachers.”

Coupled with her passion for teaching, her love of math and science motivated her to complete high level math and science classes. After graduating summa cum laude from Saint Louis University with a B.A. in elementary education, Mrs. Horner returned to the Academy as a Third Class teacher. After 24 years in Third Class she has spent the last eight years teaching Fifth and Sixth Class math. The developing independence and academic curiosity of her students excites and inspires her daily. Mrs. Horner loves seeing the pieces fit together as a student’s number sense and problem-solving skills develop and the math begins to make sense. Watching the light bulb turn on, when a student has that “ah ha” moment, gives her great pleasure.

“It is an honor and privilege to spend my days with these students carrying on the mission that Philippine Duchesne brought here in 1818 and that I experienced as a student,” she says.

As an active member of her parish, Mrs. Horner has played a significant role in preparing the older students for the sacrament of Confirmation. She enjoys spending time with her husband, her son (an Academy alum), and extended family. Most weekends you will find her with a group of family members rooting on the Billikens or at the lake enjoying the beauty and peacefulness of the outdoors.

Elizabeth Johnson

I am excited to continue my career in education at the Academy of the Sacred Heart. I already feel welcomed by this special, holy community. I am touched by the positive environment of the students and staff alike and know this will be a place where I can continue to inspire students to be lifelong learners, especially in the area of Language Arts.

I am deeply passionate about the foundation that a Catholic education can provide for individuals during their formative years, as I have reflected on my own education. When Christ is present in each classroom, it makes a difference in relationships that are formed and the lessons that are learned. I look forward to seeing how this comes alive in my classroom at the Academy!

I also enjoying playing pickleball and spending time with my husband and cat when I'm not teaching!

Bob Lampen

Mr. Lampen taught Math and coached volleyball for 18 years at Notre Dame de Sion High School in Kansas City, MO prior to coming to the Academy. A native of St. Louis, Bob was inspired to be a teacher and coach while attending St. John Vianney High School. "Teaching at the Academy allows me to use my previous teaching experience at the high school level to prepare students for their high school and college academic pursuits." In his spare time, Bob enjoys all things sports, especially following the St. Louis Cardinals.

Tammy Strother

For as long as she can remember, becoming a teacher was the only thing Mrs. Strother wanted to do. "God put that mustard seed in my mind at a very young age."

At age 17 she started college knowing the path she wanted to take. She attended the University of Missouri, St. Louis and graduated cum laude with a B.S. in elementary education. After teaching fourth grade for five years in the Francis Howell School District, Mrs. Strother spent the next 12 years as a stay-at-home mom. When deciding to return to teaching, the only place she wanted to teach was the Academy.

"When my children began attending school here, I saw that the Academy was addressing the whole child, not just the academic aspect, and I wanted to be a part of that community."

Mrs. Strother enjoys teaching history and religion. "It is amazing how these two subjects are intertwined. Ancient civilizations and our country were formed out of religious beliefs. I consider history a form of storytelling. This gets the students' attention and draws them in."

Mrs. Strother considers teaching religion a privilege. "Students need to understand the Church's teachings to feel a connection with their religion. I also want to strengthen their relationship with God through different forms of prayer, both private and communal, and through service opportunities."

Mrs. Strother enjoys spending free time with her family and puppies, gardening and working on her house.

Michael Taylor

From the first day I walked into The Academy of the Sacred Heart in 2011, I felt welcomed and supported. The school always felt like home to me and not just a workplace.

The focus on social awareness resonates with my own belief that we need to not only be informed of issues in the world but also have the strength to bring about positive change. This emphasis combined with ASH’s strong academic foundation creates the perfect opportunity for lasting change and something that I'm enjoying being part of.

My philosophy for teaching Science is to provide a foundation that instills in students a lifelong passion for learning. My lessons include peer collaboration as well as student-paced work allowing students to be successful and feel challenged at the same time.

When I'm not teaching, I enjoy the outdoors with my wife, two daughters and German Shepherd.

Zachary Balentine

Born and raised in St. Louis, Mr. Balentine's inspiration for being in the classroom goes all the way back to high school. "I participated in the Urban League program, where students were placed in different summer jobs. One of my placements was working as a teacher assistant with kindergarten and first-grade students," he says.

"That summer was such a positive experience for me. It was the moment I realized, 'Wow, I could really see myself doing this if football doesn’t work out.' That experience sparked my passion for education and is a big part of why I’m committed to being in the classroom today."

Mr. Balentine shares that what makes the Academy special is that students get the chance to grow not just academically, but physically and socially. "In PE, I really see students build confidence, learn teamwork, and discover activities they enjoy. Our Academy creates a safe, supportive space where every student can try new things and feel successful."

Liz Foor

I have always loved making music since I was little. It made me feel like I belonged to something important and magical when I performed. My goal is to make the Music Classroom the same for my students, a place where they feel safe and welcomed to perform and express themselves. My students learn musical concepts through dancing, singing, playing instruments and Technology. There is a place for everyone in my classroom!

John Storjohann

While working at a camp for physically handicapped children when he was a student at Lindenwood University, Mr. Storjohann was moved by the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children. The experience inspired his own passion for teaching and coaching children and the Academy of the Sacred Heart offered the opportunity to teach the whole child–academically, spiritually and emotionally–in a meaningful way. In his time at the Academy, Mr. Storjohann has taught physical education, American history and computer science; served as the Dean of Students for Boys; coached soccer, basketball and track, and served as the school athletic director.

Continually seeking to grow as an educator, Mr. Storjohann is a member of the ISTE (International Society of Technology in Education) and has attended the ISTE's International Convention, completing workshops in computer science and mobile application development. In addition he has completed or attended several workshops, including the Code Studio Computer Science Fundamentals Curriculum Workshop for K-5, the Developing Leaders Seminar presented by Tim Elmore, “What Great Teachers Do Differently” by Todd Whittaker, the 2017 NCEA (National Catholic Educators Association) Convention, the Common Sense Media Digital Citizenship Training for teachers K-5 and 6-12 and has introduced CAD/CAM, 3D-Modeling and Printing, and simple robotics for the Lower School into the computer curriculum. He also coordinates the Memory Book Club (Eighth Class Yearbook) and an Entrepreneurship Elective with our 7th and 8th Class.

Michelle Hagen

Michelle attended the University of Missouri St. Louis and graduated with a Bachelor in Fine Arts. She enjoys working in a variety of mediums including drawing, painting, textiles and clay. She has taught art for grades 6-12 in a private, therapeutic school and utilizes differentiation and individualized instruction in her classroom. Her students are introduced to the work of a variety of artists and art periods, she wants students to experience art and realize how much it affects their lives. “I love helping students discover their creativity and watching them grow as artists and critical thinkers, the art room is their studio and I want to provide a safe space for self-expression and to explore new ideas and processes.”

Michelle lives in St. Louis with her husband and three daughters and draws inspiration for her own art through traveling, music, gardening and spending summer vacations on Lake Michigan.

Robynn Horner

Mrs. Horner is from Southeastern Wisconsin and has taught Elementary, Middle, and High School Spanish. Her teaching career began at the Milwaukee Spanish Immersion School (a full-immersion specialty school for English speakers), and she spent 11 years as a stay-at-home mom with her three children. She returned to teach K-8 Spanish at a local Catholic school and then created a Reggio-inspired 3-year-old early childhood program at a PK - 12 college-prep independent school. After establishing the program, Mrs. Horner returned to Spanish teaching at the same school where she remained for 16 years until moving to St. Charles for her husband's new job as Head of School at the Academy!

Amaya Firestone

I grew up attending a small, private school, with my mother holding many teaching and administrative positions during my time there. I enjoyed the small by design environment and having her close and familiar with my school world, so I was thrilled to find ASH and join not only the community but also the staff here. In my job at ASH, it is a daily joy to build connections, work creatively, and show off the amazing learning that happens here. My motto is "what a time to be alive!".

I'm a Catholic convert married to my high school sweetheart. We have three boys and two standard poodles. In my free time, I enjoy lifting weights, knitting, and homemaking. As a family, we love a good board game.

Lindsey Gevers

Ms. Gevers graduated with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education and spent three years teaching in the elementary classroom. After leaving the classroom, she transitioned into the event space, and discovered her passion for planning meaningful experiences. She shares, "I love that this role combines my passion for education and events, and I am grateful to use my skill set to serve the Academy community and create memorable experiences for our families."

Stacy Thompson

I joined the ASH family in 2023, and from the moment I stepped on campus, I knew this was a special place. The ASH community welcomed me with open arms, and I am grateful every day for the faculty, staff, students, and parents who make it so wonderful.

Since moving to Missouri in 2014, I have worked as a learning specialist with the Saint Louis Learning Disabilities Association (LDA). Before that, I served as a special education teacher in the Tennessee Public Schools. My favorite part of being an educator is serving as a cheerleader for my students! I love watching their confidence grow as they discover just how much they are truly capable of achieving.

Outside of my life in education, I am a mom (of two grown kids and a senior dog with only one eye), wife (of 25+ years) and avid fan of all things University of Tennessee (Go Vols!).

Mary Reepmeyer

The Academy of the Sacred Heart is a second home to me. I am a graduate of the class of 1996 and still keep in touch with many of my classmates today. While in college studying to become a teacher I knew I wanted to come back and teach at the Academy. I loved all my teachers here , enjoyed the rich traditions, and received an amazing education. I want to give that experience back to the next generation.

I send my three children to the Academy and am privileged to go to work with them each day. I am also blessed to see my 4 nieces and 3 nephews throughout the halls. It brings me joy to see them grow academically, socially, and spiritually.

Throughout my twenty years as a teacher I have taught 1st through 4th grade. I enjoyed teaching the different age levels as well as having the honor of preparing our 2nd graders for their First Reconciliation and First Communion. I am now starting my second year as the principal and I look forward to many more year of love and learning at the Academy as we follow in Philippine's footsteps.

Timothy Horner

Coming soon...

Catherine Murphy

Mrs. Murphy is excited to join the Academy of the Sacred Heart as a Primary teacher in 2025. In the short time she has been here, she has noticed the friendliness and spirit of community among the faculty, staff, parents and students. She has had a passion for education since childhood, nurtured by her years attending Catholic schools in the St. Louis area. She pursued her education at Northern Illinois University in Dekalb, IL, and turned her lifelong dream into reality. Over the past 25 years she has taught in Illinois, Florida, and Missouri, with most of her time spent in Kindergarten which is her favorite grade. She values working in a Catholic school where she can help young learners grow in their faith as well as academics.

At home in St. Charles, she lives with her husband and son who is in high school. Her two older sons have grown and settled out of state. When she is not teaching, Mrs. Murphy enjoys baking, walking outdoors, and spending time with her dog.

Judy Robben

Mrs. Robben is one of six siblings and the oldest of three sisters who all attended the Academy. Her time at the Academy shaped her faith, (especially her devotion for Mary), forged lifelong friendships, and instilled a strong work ethic and respect for others, even amidst differences. Inspired by her early years, Mrs. Robben knew early on she wanted to be a teacher and never seriously considered another vocation.

She graduated cum laude from St. Louis University with a B.S. in Elementary Education. Soon after, she married Mike, and the couple moved to Overland Park, Kansas, where they raised their three children and lived for 36 years. During her early years in the Kansas City area, Mrs. Robben earned her Reading Specialist Certification from Avila University, her Master's in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Kansas, and her School Administration Certification from Baker University. Over a 33-year teaching career in the Kansas City/Overland Park area, her greatest passion became reading intervention. Most recently, she completed a 100-hour practicum to earn her Dyslexia Intervention Certification.

In 2023,Mrs. Robben and her husband returned to St. Louis to be closer to their four grandchildren. They are active members of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Cottleville, where Mrs. Robben can often be found lectoring at Mass or cheering on her grandchildren at sporting events. In their free time, Mike plays hockey in a senior men’s league, and Judy enjoys long walks and Barre classes. Together, they both enjoy the ongoing challenge of improving their golf game.

“It is an honor and a dream come true to ‘go full circle’ and return to the Academy as a teacher,” Mrs. Robben shares. “I have great admiration for St. Philippine Duchesne, who founded the school in such harsh conditions yet remained determined to bring the love of Jesus to young hearts. It truly feels like being back home.”

Karleen Rogers

Prior to working with young children, Mrs. Rogers' career was in the medical and legal field. She says, "I love to work with children especially the young ones of 4-5 years old, who will be entering the early years of their education. I love to see them grow and their faces light up when they are learning about something for the very first time. Like creation, when God created us all with special gifts and talents to share with others and to make a difference in life, I hope that I can make a difference as a Pre-Primary Assistant to these young ones. This is my second year with the Academy and I am blessed that I have been chosen to work with these youngsters."

Hannah Haguewood

I am excited to be teaching my second year at the Academy of the Sacred Heart this year! While I greatly enjoyed working with 7th and 8th Class students last year, I am eager to be reunited with lower school. My favorite part of teaching is growing more in my knowledge every day alongside my students. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy reading, exploring museums, spending time with family, or playing with my dog.

Victoria Radazo

Born and raised in St. Louis, Miss Radazo now resides in Illinois. She joined the Academy in 2025 and previously taught fourth grade in the Hazelwood School District and preschool-aged children at First Step Preschool. "I am excited to get back to my roots of fostering young minds as they walk along their own paths," she shares. 

"When not at school, I enjoy cozying up with a good book and my cats, Sgt. Pepper and Penny Lane, or grabbing a bite to eat with my boyfriend. I am excited to help a new group of students grow and learn and become a part of the Academy community!"

Alissa Dwyer

Miss Dwyer has been teaching for three years in Catholic education and is thrilled to be a part of the community at Academy of the Sacred Heart. "I chose this school because I admire their dedication to fostering student growth in education and Catholic faith. Ever since I was young I wanted to make a difference in children’s lives and express my commitment to the faith. I have always had a passion for teaching and I believe the Academy will help me succeed in becoming the best mentor I can be." 

Abby Bockerstett

I’m proud to be from St. Louis. I’ve always loved spending time outdoors—whether it’s hiking, swimming, or enjoying a friendly game of pickleball or volleyball at local parks.

Recently, I graduated from the University of Mississippi with a degree in elementary education with endorsements in Special Education (K-6), English (7-12), and Science (7-12) and returned home, excited to begin my journey as a teacher. When I visited the Academy of the Sacred Heart, I immediately felt the warmth of its community and the strong sense of pride in its traditions. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a special school, and I can’t wait to get to know you and your children!

Alli Alarcon

Coming soon...

Lacey Doyle

I am a School-Based Therapist working toward two licensures – Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT). I have experience working with school-age children to address anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, grief, and general life transitions. Much like Jesus at the well, I believe in meeting people/children where they are. This may look like learning and incorporating their special interests into therapy, following their lead, or giving them choices of expression (play, art, talk, etc.). For middle grades, I also incorporate game play and sandtray therapy. Just as every child is unique, so is every session! I partner with teachers, parents and caregivers to build a village and offer a two-way street for general insights and ideas to ensure kids are supported in school and at home.

Donna Lamkin

Mrs. Lamkin assists Mrs. Murphy in the Primary Classroom. Born and raised in Quincy, IL, she has spent four years as a paraeducator in Catholic school first grade classroom. She and her husband, Clayton, have moved to the area.

She shares, “I value the close relationship I have with my family and community in Quincy and hope to find that in St. Charles as well. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, skiing and reading. I am excited to begin this next journey."

Terri Pruitt

Mrs. Pruitt joins Mrs. Thompson as our team of LDA learning consultants. Most recently, Mrs. Pruitt was the Dean of Academic Programming and Partnerships at Miriam School and Learning Center and previously served as the Associate Head of School there. She writes:

I am approaching the end of my first month here at ASH. Every day that I enter the building, I feel nothing but love and compassion. I am thoroughly enjoying working with the students and staff. Our students are fabulous and so are the staff!