Kuemper Catholic School Welcomes Ten New Teachers and Secretary

Kuemper Catholic School has expanded its faculty for the 2025-26 academic year by welcoming ten new teachers and a new secretary. This addition reflects the school’s commitment to enhancing its educational offerings and supporting student learning.

Meet the New Educators

Among the new staff is Melea Axman, a fifth-grade teacher and a proud alumna of Kuemper, having graduated in 2021. She recently completed her studies at Iowa State University in May. She is excited to return to her roots and contribute to her former school.

Michael Barta joins as the 7th-12th business education teacher. A 2003 graduate of Kuemper, he has spent the last 16 years teaching and coaching at Johnston High School. During his tenure, Johnston secured five state baseball championships. At Kuemper, he will also contribute to the coaching staff alongside his cousin, Riley Bach.

Another notable addition is Stacey Barta, who will be teaching fourth grade. With 17 years of teaching experience across various grade levels, she is keen to bring her expertise to Kuemper. Her husband, Michael Barta, is also a Kuemper graduate.

The high school math department welcomes Evan Brincks, who graduated from Kuemper in 2020 and recently earned his teaching degree from Buena Vista University. He taught math at Coon Rapids-Bayard last year and looks forward to inspiring students at his alma mater.

Kathy Halbur is taking on the role of K-2 music teacher. A graduate of Kuemper, she holds degrees in K-12 vocal music education and K-8 elementary education from Wayne State College in Nebraska. Halbur also directs music at St. John Paul II Parish in Carroll and teaches K-5 music at St. Rose of Lima in Denison.

Another new addition, Kaitlynn Kaufman, will teach 7th-grade math. With a major in secondary mathematics education, she brings 15 years of teaching experience, including the past 11 years at Carroll Middle School and High School.

Julia Mikkelsen rounds out the kindergarten team. A 2021 Kuemper graduate, she received her teaching degree from the University of Iowa earlier this year and has spent several years working with KuemperCares.

Family and consumer science will be taught by Christine Pottebaum, while Alison Schon, a 1996 Kuemper graduate, begins her 24th year of teaching as a transitional kindergarten teacher. She has experience teaching first grade, kindergarten, and transitional kindergarten.

Completing the new roster is Nicole Woodhouse, who will teach second grade. A 2016 Kuemper graduate, she earned her elementary education degree from the University of Northern Iowa and taught for the past four years at Adams Elementary School in Carroll.

Finally, Katie Weitl joins the staff as the secretary for the Holy Spirit Center. She has an associate’s degree in veterinary technology from Northeast Community College in Norfolk, Nebraska, and is eager to contribute to the school community.

These new appointments bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to Kuemper Catholic School, reinforcing its dedication to providing quality education and fostering a supportive environment for students. The school looks forward to an engaging and productive year ahead.