We're excited to spotlight our dynamic Second Grade teaching team! Second Grade bridges foundational skills from early childhood with the more advanced learning that lies ahead, making it an essential year for academic and social growth. Atlas’ Second Grade educators cultivate authentic relationships with students while maintaining a high level of classroom rigor. Learn about all seven members of the team!
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Get to know Ms. Maggie!
- Ms. Maggie earned her BA and MA in Education from the University of Arkansas. She stayed in Arkansas after graduating and taught first grade for four years.
- Born and raised in Kirkwood, she moved back to St. Louis in 2020 and loves to cheer on the St. Louis Blues and Cardinals.
- When she was little, Ms. Maggie wanted to grow up to be an interior designer. Her talent for design is showcased in her beautiful classroom.
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"I love teaching 2nd grade at Atlas because my students are so kind, hardworking, and empathetic. My students make my job so great due to their willingness to never give up, their love for learning, and of course, their sense of humor. My coworkers and my students have taught me so much this year. I am looking forward to what's to come in the future here at Atlas!" - Maggie Aschbacher, Lead Second Grade Teacher
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Get to know Ms. Katie!
- Ms. Katie was born and raised in St. Louis and holds a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
- During college, she was an intern for an online literary journal.
- Fun fact: Ms. Katie’s roommate (Ms. Maura) also teaches at Atlas! In her free time, Ms. Katie loves to read and snuggle with her pets.
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"What I love the most about working at Atlas is that everybody looks out for each other and you really feel supported when you need it." - Katie McElroy, Assistant Teacher
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Get to know Mr. Candelario!
- Mr. Candelario earned his bachelor’s in the Science of Elementary Education from UMSL, and prides himself in being an educator in St. Louis City.
- His favorite hobbies mostly involve being outdoors; such as running, biking, hiking, camping, and kayaking (and walking his dogs, Charlie and Cece). While indoors, you can find him tearing into a good video game or LEGO set.
- Two fun facts: He is an only child, and he has hiked to the top of 9 of the tallest mountains in the Rocky Mountains, with the rest on his bucket list!
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"There are many things I love about teaching at Atlas, too many to put into a sentence without it being a run on. So, here’s my list:
- The students and families are a gift to work with
- Our team effort towards the common goal of providing the best for our kids results in amazing support and collaboration
- Year-round schooling provides breaks just when we all need one, and ensures no loss of learning
- This is all around the most positive work environment I have experienced so far in life"
- Matt Candelario, Lead Second Grade Teacher |
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Get to know Ms. Monica!
- Though Ms. Monica grew up in Kirkwood, she spent some time in California before moving back to St. Louis. She obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Special Education from the University of Missouri-St. Louis.
- Ms. Monica has worked with children in several capacities including as a full-time nanny and as a second grade teacher in University City.
- She loves to read, cook, and stay active outdoors!
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"Atlas Elementary has such a positive community. This translates into how we show up for students; everyone working here comes to work genuinely excited to make a difference!" - Monica Gammon, Educator in Residence
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Get to know Ms. Stull!
- Before earning a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and Special Education Certification, Ms. Stull worked in early childhood education for five years.
- She previously served as an assistant teacher and lead fourth grade teacher in other local districts. This is Ms. Stull’s second year teaching second grade at Atlas.
- Ms. Stull loves to take walks in Forest Park and on local hiking trails. She also has a knack for breathing new life into old treasures she finds at vintage and thrift shops.
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"My favorite thing about teaching at Atlas is the wonderful families. They create such a loving community here. I love building relationships with my students and their parents, and I love experiencing their joy and the joy they have in sending their kids to Atlas!" - Myra Stull, Lead Second Grade Teacher
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Get to know Ms. Ashley!
- Ms. Ashley was born and raised in St. Louis, MO.
- She is currently working on finishing her bachelor’s degree and holds a certificate in substitute teaching.
- When she was little, she wanted to be a singer and a teacher when she grew up!
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"I love working with the kids at Atlas! Every day, I come in with a smile ready to teach. The best way to make children good is to make them happy and they make ME happy every day!" - Ashley Dunlap, Assistant Teacher
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Get to know Ms. Faye!
- Born in California, Ms. Faye split her time growing up between New Mexico and Hawaii!
- She holds a degree in Technical Writing from the University of New Mexico, an MFA from Southern Illinois University, and is set to graduate with a Mathematics Specialist degree from the University of Central Missouri in 2025.
- Ms. Faye is an IAYT (International Association of Yoga Therapists) trained yoga therapist and incorporates many mindfulness practices in her classroom.
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“Atlas is a place where individual skills and talents can be integrated into the whole school. This makes our staff unique, and our school dynamic." - Carly Faye, Second Grade Math Teacher
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Learn more about why Atlas staff love coming to work and apply to open roles for the 2024-2025 school year – including K-4 Classroom Teacher, Special Education Teacher, and Assistant Teacher – by clicking the button below!
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