Family engagement includes all of the ways we, as staff and as families with preschoolers, work and play together in preparing children for success in school and life. I am here to support family, staff and classroom activities–meeting needs and providing information, comfort and opportunities.  I have degrees in child-development and social work, and have worked in early childhood for more than 30 years. My husband and I have three children who are now young adults. My favorite times in life are when we are all together. Contact me in Woodlawn’s Twinkle Star Community Room, by email or by phone.

Hello Preschool! I am Joanna Braucht, Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) here at Woodlawn Preschool. I have been at Woodlawn as the SLP and before that as an SLP Associate since 2012. I am the mother to two DMPS students, Eden and Sawyer. I am also a proud graduate of 4 DMPS schools. I enjoy gardening, cooking, and being outside. I look forward to serving your preschoolers in a fun and caring way!

“Being heard is so close to being loved that for the average person, they are almost indistinguishable.” -David Augsburger

Communication Services Mission: Supporting students, teachers, and families to help all students become competent communicators in an ever-evolving world.

Hello and welcome to Woodlawn Family! I have been serving as a school nurse with DMPS for more than 25 years. Throughout this time, I have worked with students from high school down to the elementary level. I am fortunate to have joined Woodlawn in 2020, and love working with the preschoolers. I started nursing school at University of Iowa and graduated from GrandView College. My husband and I have two adult sons. I am a proud grandmother of twin boys, Griffon and Gannon, and their beautiful sister Marklyn. I look forward to working with you to keep your preschooler safe and healthy. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if I can assist in any way

Hi, my name is Erin Loy. I have a Bachelor’s degree from Northern Iowa and my Master’s degree from St. Ambrose University. I have been in the social work field since 2002 and have been with the district since 2017.  I am working at both Woodlawn and Smouse. I love working with the early childhood age and seeing them learn and grow. I am married with 2 young children at home. In my free time I enjoy watching the Hawkeyes and like to spend time with my family. I am very excited to be here and am looking forward to a great and successful year with your children.

Hi, my name is Beth Pattschull and I am one of the Early Childhood Special Education consultants. I have been working in Early Childhood Special Education with Des Moines Public schools since 2002. I enjoy working with this age group and seeing the excitement that learning brings each day. I feel passionate about providing children with experiences to build the foundation for later school success. I am married with two children.