My name is Kristin Groepper and I have been teaching in the DMPS district since 2005. I have had the pleasure of teaching preschool, kindergarten, second grade and now first grade. I graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Early Childhood Education. I live in the Perkins district with my husband Dan and our kids Hanna, Claire, Jack and Ben and dogs Cooper and Lu Lu. I enjoy spending time with my family, especially my two grandchildren Charlotte and Kennedy! I love being with friends and attending ISU athletic events.
Class Description
1st Grade
My name is Carrie Spoelstra. I have been teaching in Des Moines Public Schools for over 20 years! I taught Title Reading for a short time, but mostly have spent my time teaching either 2nd or 1st grade. I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with my undergraduate degree and Viterbo University with my Master’s Degree in Elementary Education. When not at school I enjoy spending time with my twin daughters and husband. I am thrilled to be joining the Perkins Penguins and I can’t wait to work with the great students and staff!
Class Description
1st grade
My name is Breeanna Tallakson. This will be my second year as a Perkins Penguin. I am originally from Cedar Rapids, Iowa and graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in 2008. I taught in Las Vegas, Nevada for 11 years, two years in first grade and nine years in third grade. I also have my Master’s in Educational Leadership from Western Governor’s University.
In my free time I enjoy spending time with my husband Andy, who is a PE teacher for the district and my two boys Mason and Myles. We love to go for bike rides and play at the park.