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.

I am a Speech-Language Pathology Associate at Woodlawn and McKee Education Centers. I just received my Bachelor’s in Communication Disorders and Sciences from Utah State University. Next, I am headed to graduate school to get my Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology. I have two children, Eden who is 4, and Sawyer who is 1 year. I enjoy cooking, gardening, and spending time with my friends and family.

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 this is my first year with Des Moines Public Schools. 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.

My name is Melissa Sambu and I am an Instructional Coach for Early Childhood. I have worked for Des Moines Public Schools for 9 years. During that time, I have taught preschool, been a Literacy Coach, and an Instructional Coach. Prior to coming to Des Moines, I taught kindergarten for 2 years. I look forward to working with teachers, children, and families to make it a great and successful year!